14591, Wyoming, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14591, Wyoming, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.60 percent of residents in 14591 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 7.44 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wyoming County (ZIP Code 14591)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Wyoming County, New York (ZIP Code 14591), offer a bucolic setting. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the reality of healthcare access presents a complex challenge. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, crucial for COPD patients, and provides a "COPD Score" reflecting the ease of accessing necessary medical care. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, all within the context of this rural community.

The primary consideration for a COPD patient is proximity to healthcare facilities. In ZIP Code 14591, the closest major medical centers are in Warsaw, NY, and the city of Rochester, NY. Warsaw boasts Wyoming County Community Hospital, offering specialized pulmonary care. Rochester, approximately an hour's drive, provides access to larger hospitals like Strong Memorial Hospital and Highland Hospital, with comprehensive respiratory services.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in this area. From the center of 14591, a drive to Wyoming County Community Hospital in Warsaw typically takes around 15-20 minutes via Route 20A. This is the most direct route, and traffic is generally light, making it a relatively accessible option. However, for those needing specialized care or access to a wider range of specialists, the journey to Rochester becomes a significant consideration.

The drive to Rochester primarily involves using Route 19 North to Interstate 390 North. This journey, covering roughly 50 miles, can take anywhere from 50 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The presence of Interstate 390 is a significant advantage, offering a higher speed limit and generally smoother travel compared to smaller, winding roads. However, weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can drastically impact drive times and road safety, potentially isolating patients. This highlights the importance of reliable transportation options, especially for those with compromised respiratory function.

Public transportation options in Wyoming County are limited. The Wyoming County Transit system provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and service is not available in all areas of the county. The primary route that serves the area is Route 1, which connects Warsaw and Perry. This route, while offering some accessibility, is not designed to meet the specific needs of COPD patients, such as frequent trips to medical appointments.

ADA accessibility on Wyoming County Transit buses is a standard feature. Ramps and designated seating are available, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and route coverage significantly reduce the practicality of public transit for many COPD patients. Waiting times, especially in inclement weather, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rochester area, but their presence in Wyoming County is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, and wait times can be unpredictable. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are another option. Companies like CareRide and First Transit offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle passengers with mobility issues. However, these services may require advance booking and can be expensive.

Considering the transportation landscape, the "COPD Score" for ZIP Code 14591 is moderately challenging. The score reflects the following:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Good access to Wyoming County Community Hospital (short drive).
* **Drive Times to Specialized Care:** Longer drive times to Rochester hospitals (50-75 minutes).
* **Public Transportation:** Limited and infrequent service.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Sporadic availability and potential cost barriers.
* **Medical Transportation:** Available, but may require advance booking and can be expensive.
* **Weather Conditions:** Winter weather can significantly impact travel times and road safety.

**The COPD Score for ZIP Code 14591 is a 6/10.**

This score indicates that while access to basic healthcare is relatively good, accessing specialized care and managing frequent appointments can be challenging. The limited public transit options and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services necessitate reliance on personal vehicles or medical transportation services.

**Recommendations:**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to or residing in ZIP Code 14591, careful consideration of transportation needs is essential.

* **Assess driving capabilities:** Ensure the ability to drive safely, especially in adverse weather conditions.
* **Explore medical transportation options:** Research and establish relationships with medical transportation providers.
* **Plan for appointments:** Schedule appointments with sufficient travel time and consider potential delays.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives to expand public transportation services, particularly those catering to medical needs.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** Evaluate housing options based on proximity to medical facilities.
* **Prioritize healthcare access:** When considering moving to Wyoming, prioritize the availability of healthcare and transportation options.

The challenges of accessing healthcare in rural areas like Wyoming County underscore the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals managing COPD. While the natural beauty of the region is undeniable, the transportation limitations must be carefully considered to ensure a high quality of life and effective management of this chronic respiratory condition. The COPD Score serves as a vital tool for understanding the realities of healthcare access and making informed decisions about transportation and healthcare needs.