14489, Lyons, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14489, Lyons, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.04 percent of residents in 14489 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newark-Wayne Community Hospital with a distance of 5.46 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14489 (Lyons, NY)**

The air hangs heavy in Lyons, New York, a small town nestled in the heart of Wayne County. For those managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the ability to breathe freely is paramount. But access to healthcare, a lifeline for COPD sufferers, can be complicated by transportation barriers. This analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities from the 14489 ZIP code, assigning a "COPD Score" based on the feasibility of reaching essential medical appointments. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access in this community.

The primary healthcare provider for Lyons residents is Newark-Wayne Community Hospital, approximately a 15-minute drive via NY-14 North. This route, a well-maintained two-lane road, offers a relatively straightforward commute. However, the accessibility of this drive depends heavily on personal vehicle ownership and the ability to drive safely. For those without a personal vehicle, or for whom driving is difficult due to COPD symptoms, the reliance on alternative transport becomes critical.

Another healthcare option, Thompson Health in Canandaigua, is roughly a 35-minute drive, primarily via NY-14 North and then NY-5 & 20 West. While a longer drive, the route is generally well-maintained, making it a viable option for specialized care or services not available locally. This longer commute, however, presents a greater challenge for those with breathing difficulties, who may require frequent stops or experience increased anxiety during the journey.

Public transportation options in Lyons are limited, which significantly impacts the COPD Score. The Wayne County Area Transportation System (WCATS) offers demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while potentially offering door-to-door transportation, requires planning and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the infrequency of service and the need for pre-booking present a significant challenge for those needing prompt medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are sporadically available in Lyons. Their presence is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The unpredictable nature of ride-share availability adds uncertainty to the healthcare access equation. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another consideration. Companies such as AMR (American Medical Response) and Finger Lakes Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services offer a more reliable option than ride-sharing, but they require pre-arrangement and may involve higher costs. The availability of these services, their coverage area, and the types of medical conditions they accommodate are crucial factors in determining the COPD Score.

The overall COPD Score for ZIP Code 14489 reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to Newark-Wayne Community Hospital is relatively short, the lack of robust public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the need for pre-arranged medical transport, and the potential for increased travel times to access specialized care all contribute to a lower score.

Moving to Lyons, while offering a slower pace of life and a close-knit community, requires careful consideration for those with COPD. The availability of healthcare, while present, is not easily accessible for all residents. Individuals with COPD must proactively plan for transportation, explore all available options, and consider the potential impact of weather and other unforeseen circumstances on their ability to reach medical appointments.

The COPD Score is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment that should be re-evaluated regularly. As healthcare services evolve and transportation options change, the score will need to be adjusted to reflect the reality of healthcare access in Lyons. This analysis serves as a starting point, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that exist for individuals with COPD in this community.

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 14489 is influenced by the following factors: the relatively short drive to Newark-Wayne Community Hospital via NY-14 North; the longer drive to Thompson Health in Canandaigua via NY-14 North and NY-5 & 20 West; the limited public transportation options provided by WCATS, requiring pre-booking and potentially lacking frequent service; the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft; and the availability and cost of medical transport services like AMR and Finger Lakes Ambulance. All of these factors contribute to the overall assessment of healthcare access for individuals with COPD in Lyons, NY.