14532, Phelps, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14532, Phelps, New York is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.96 percent of residents in 14532 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Springs Hospital And Clinic with a distance of 4.64 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Phelps, NY (ZIP Code 14532)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to readily access healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding Phelps, New York (ZIP Code 14532), providing a COPD Score based on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Phelps or currently residing there, especially those with respiratory conditions, to gauge their healthcare access.

The heart of Phelps, a charming village nestled in Ontario County, is easily traversed by car. However, reliance on a personal vehicle is a significant factor in the COPD Score. Long drive times, particularly during inclement weather common in the Finger Lakes region, can exacerbate COPD symptoms. The primary roads serving Phelps are New York State Route 96 and New York State Route 31. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak hours or due to seasonal conditions.

Driving to the nearest major healthcare facilities, such as Geneva General Hospital in Geneva or Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, requires careful planning. Geneva, approximately 15 miles away, presents a drive of around 20-30 minutes via NY-96. Rochester, a more comprehensive medical hub, is roughly 40 miles distant, translating to a 50-60 minute drive primarily on NY-96 and the New York State Thruway (I-90). The Thruway, while efficient, can be susceptible to delays due to accidents or construction.

The COPD Score acknowledges the challenges posed by these drive times. Individuals with COPD may experience increased shortness of breath or fatigue during longer car rides. Furthermore, the cost of fuel, parking, and potential tolls adds to the financial burden of healthcare access, impacting the overall quality of life. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

Public transportation in Phelps is limited, presenting a significant challenge for those reliant on it. The Ontario County Transportation System (OCTS) provides demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This service, while potentially offering door-to-door transportation, is not ideal for urgent medical needs. The availability of OCTS services to Geneva or Rochester is limited, and the travel times are considerably longer than driving, often involving multiple transfers.

The OCTS fleet includes vehicles equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts. However, the limited frequency and the need for advance booking make it less than ideal for individuals with COPD who may experience unpredictable symptom flare-ups. The COPD Score reflects the challenges posed by the lack of robust public transportation infrastructure.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Phelps area, though their availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments can be expensive, and the wait times can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This is a consideration for anyone moving to Phelps.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services, provided by companies like AMR (American Medical Response) or local ambulance squads, are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. While they offer a more comfortable and medically appropriate environment, they are often reserved for those with specific medical needs or those requiring assistance with mobility.

The COPD Score considers the accessibility and cost of medical transportation services. While these services are crucial for individuals with significant mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport, they are not always a sustainable solution for routine healthcare appointments. The cost of NEMT can be substantial, and the availability may be limited depending on insurance coverage.

The COPD Score for Phelps, NY (14532) is influenced by a combination of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare, coupled with the limited public transportation options and the potential challenges of ride-sharing, presents significant hurdles for individuals with COPD. The drive times to major healthcare facilities, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, can exacerbate symptoms and add to the stress of managing the condition.

The COPD Score also considers the availability and cost of medical transportation services. While these services provide essential support for those with specific medical needs, they are not always a sustainable solution for routine healthcare appointments. The limited availability of public transportation and the potential for unpredictable wait times with ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Phelps, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. The COPD Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the cost and reliability of alternative transportation solutions.

The ideal scenario for someone with COPD in Phelps would be a location within easy driving distance of a primary care physician and a pulmonologist. Proximity to a hospital or urgent care facility is also essential. Furthermore, access to reliable and affordable transportation options, such as a supportive family member or a dependable medical transportation service, is critical for maintaining good health.

The COPD Score is a dynamic assessment, and the transportation landscape is constantly evolving. New technologies and services may emerge, offering improved healthcare access. For example, the expansion of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person appointments.

The COPD Score underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals with COPD residing in or moving to Phelps. By carefully evaluating their healthcare needs and transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions that support their health and well-being.

The COPD Score for Phelps, NY (14532) reflects the need for careful consideration of transportation challenges and the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential cost and availability issues with ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to the overall score. Anyone moving to Phelps needs to factor in these realities.