14485, Lima, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14485, Lima, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.39 percent of residents in 14485 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nicholas H Noyes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 24.29 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lima, NY (ZIP Code 14485)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and accessible transportation is paramount to maintaining consistent healthcare. Regular appointments for check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and medication refills are crucial. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Lima, NY (ZIP Code 14485), providing a "COPD Score" assessment to evaluate healthcare access, especially for those considering moving to Lima.

The score considers drive times to healthcare facilities, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services. Each category receives a rating, culminating in an overall COPD Score reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care within the ZIP code. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture for individuals with COPD, empowering them to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

Lima, a rural community, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary route to access specialized pulmonary care often involves driving. The nearest major healthcare hub is Rochester, NY, approximately 30 miles northeast.

The most direct route typically utilizes **Interstate 90 (I-90)**, a major east-west thoroughfare. From Lima, the I-90 East provides relatively quick access to Rochester. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. A typical drive to Strong Memorial Hospital, a leading healthcare provider in Rochester, can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **New York State Route 5 & 20**, a more scenic but often slower route. This road, running parallel to I-90, passes through several towns and villages, offering a less direct but potentially more manageable drive for those uncomfortable with interstate travel. The drive time via Route 5 & 20 to Rochester could extend to over an hour, especially during rush hour.

Local roads like **County Road 40** and **Route 65** provide access to smaller healthcare facilities and primary care physicians within the immediate vicinity of Lima. These local options are crucial for routine check-ups and basic medical needs. However, for specialized COPD care, the drive to Rochester remains the primary option.

**Drive Time Score: 3/5** (Reflects the reliance on personal vehicles, potential for traffic delays, and distance to specialized care.)

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Lima are severely limited. The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) does not directly serve Lima with fixed-route bus service. This lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to.

While RGRTA does offer a paratransit service, known as **Access Line**, this is a demand-response service designed for individuals with disabilities who cannot use the fixed-route buses. Access Line requires advance booking and operates within a limited service area. For individuals with COPD, navigating the application process and scheduling requirements of Access Line can be complex, and the availability of rides is not guaranteed.

The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot drive. Reliance on family, friends, or expensive alternative transportation becomes necessary.

**Public Transit Score: 1/5** (Reflects the absence of fixed-route service and the limited availability of paratransit.)

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Variable Availability**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Rochester area, but their availability in Lima is variable. While a ride might be secured, wait times can be significant, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can make these services expensive.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by private companies or ambulance services, offer a more specialized option for individuals with COPD. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

The cost and availability of both ride-sharing and medical transport services can vary widely, making them less reliable options for consistent healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Score: 2/5** (Reflects the variable availability and higher costs of these services.)

**Overall COPD Score and Considerations for Moving to Lima**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the overall COPD Score for Lima, NY (14485) is **2/5**. This score indicates significant challenges for individuals with COPD in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to consistent and timely medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Lima with COPD, the following factors are crucial:

* **Personal Vehicle:** Owning and maintaining a reliable vehicle is almost essential.
* **Proximity to Caregivers:** Having family or friends who can provide transportation support is invaluable.
* **Financial Resources:** Budgeting for ride-sharing, medical transport, or potential vehicle maintenance is important.
* **Facility Accessibility:** Confirming the accessibility features of healthcare facilities, including parking, elevators, and accessible entrances, is essential.

**Moving to Lima** requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. While the community offers a rural lifestyle, its healthcare access presents significant hurdles for individuals with COPD. Thorough planning and a proactive approach to transportation are essential to ensure the ability to receive necessary medical care.