14529, Perkinsville, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14529, Perkinsville, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 14529 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 28.79 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Perkinsville (ZIP Code 14529)

The crisp air of Perkinsville, New York (ZIP Code 14529), beckons with its rural charm, a haven for those seeking respite from the urban clamor. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the allure of this tranquil setting must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This 'COPD Score' write-up meticulously examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding Perkinsville, offering a critical assessment of healthcare accessibility for those considering a move or already residing in this community. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, all crucial factors influencing the quality of life for COPD patients.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Perkinsville is the availability of timely transportation to medical facilities. The primary route for accessing healthcare from Perkinsville is via **New York State Route 36**, a winding road that connects the village to larger towns and cities. Driving to the nearest major hospital, **UR Medicine Thompson Health in Canandaigua**, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive involves navigating Route 36, which then merges with **Interstate 390** for a portion of the journey. The speed limits on these roads vary, and the presence of seasonal weather events, such as snow and ice, can significantly impact travel times.

Another critical consideration is the availability of emergency medical services. The Perkinsville Volunteer Fire Department provides ambulance services, ensuring rapid response times within the immediate vicinity. However, for more specialized care or in the event of a serious medical emergency, the need for transport to a larger hospital like Thompson Health becomes paramount. This highlights the importance of understanding the reliability and responsiveness of emergency services in the area.

Public transportation options within and around Perkinsville are limited. The **Canandaigua Transit System (CATS)** offers some bus routes that might serve nearby towns, but direct service to Perkinsville is not readily available. This severely restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for COPD patients, who may experience shortness of breath and fatigue, making driving difficult or impossible.

Furthermore, the lack of public transportation disproportionately affects individuals with disabilities, including those with COPD. The absence of accessible bus routes with features like wheelchair lifts and designated seating further exacerbates the transportation barriers. This lack of accessibility underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Canandaigua area, but their presence in Perkinsville is less certain. The availability of these services depends on driver availability and demand. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing for routine medical appointments is, therefore, a concern, particularly for COPD patients who require consistent and predictable transportation.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like **CareRide** and **AmbuBus** specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the availability and cost of these services in Perkinsville need to be carefully investigated. The distance to the nearest service provider, the cost per trip, and the ability to book appointments in advance are all critical factors.

The cost of transportation, regardless of the mode, is a significant consideration for individuals managing COPD. The expense of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fares, or medical transportation services can place a substantial financial burden on patients, potentially impacting their ability to attend medical appointments and access necessary care. This financial strain can exacerbate the challenges associated with managing COPD, leading to poorer health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Perkinsville with COPD, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is crucial. This assessment should include a detailed evaluation of drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and accessibility of medical transportation options. It is also essential to consider the availability of home healthcare services, which can reduce the need for frequent travel to medical appointments.

Furthermore, individuals should investigate the availability of support groups and resources for COPD patients in the surrounding communities. These groups can provide valuable information, emotional support, and assistance with transportation and other needs. Connecting with local healthcare providers and community organizations can help individuals navigate the challenges of living with COPD in a rural setting.

The ‘COPD Score’ for Perkinsville, based on this analysis, is moderate. While the village offers a tranquil environment, the limited public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation pose significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, can be affected by weather conditions.

To improve the ‘COPD Score’ for Perkinsville, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Advocate for expanded public transportation:** Lobbying for increased bus routes or demand-response transit services that serve Perkinsville and connect it to healthcare facilities in Canandaigua and other nearby towns.
* **Promote ride-sharing awareness:** Educating residents about the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and encouraging the development of programs that subsidize transportation for individuals with disabilities.
* **Facilitate medical transportation partnerships:** Collaborating with medical transportation providers to ensure the availability of affordable and accessible services for Perkinsville residents.
* **Support home healthcare initiatives:** Encouraging the expansion of home healthcare services to reduce the need for frequent travel to medical appointments.
* **Foster community support:** Establishing or supporting COPD support groups and providing information about available resources for patients and their families.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Perkinsville can improve its healthcare accessibility and create a more supportive environment for individuals living with COPD. This will ultimately enhance the quality of life for all residents, making Perkinsville a truly welcoming community.