14619, Rochester, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14619, Rochester, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.10 percent of residents in 14619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Strong Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.43 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14619

The breathlessness of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) demands accessible and efficient healthcare. For individuals considering a move to Rochester, New York, specifically the 14619 ZIP code, understanding the landscape of transportation options is crucial. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, explores the challenges and opportunities in accessing medical care, emphasizing the impact of transportation on healthcare access.

The 14619 ZIP code, encompassing parts of the city of Rochester, presents a varied transportation environment. Residents' ability to reach vital healthcare services directly impacts their quality of life. Factors such as drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation methods significantly influence the COPD Score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical appointments and treatments.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

For those who drive, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare in and around 14619 are the major roadways. Interstate 490 (I-490), a key east-west thoroughfare, provides direct access to several hospitals and medical centers. Driving east on I-490 leads to Strong Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider known for its pulmonary care. The drive, usually taking approximately 10-15 minutes, is generally manageable, though rush hour congestion can extend travel times.

Alternatively, heading west on I-490 offers access to other healthcare facilities, including those located in the western suburbs. Access to these facilities is often dependent on navigating the complex network of city streets.

Local roads like West Henrietta Road (Route 15A) and South Clinton Avenue also play a significant role. These roads, while offering more direct routes to certain clinics and offices, can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. The condition of the roads, including the presence of potholes and the availability of parking, further affects the COPD Score.

**Public Transit: A Breath of Fresh Air or a Stifling Wait?**

For those who rely on public transportation, the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), also known as the RTS, provides bus service throughout the city. Several bus routes serve the 14619 area, offering varying degrees of access to healthcare facilities.

Route 1, for example, travels along West Henrietta Road, providing access to clinics and medical offices. Route 7, which operates along South Clinton Avenue, connects to other medical facilities. The frequency of these routes, however, can be a concern. Wait times between buses can be lengthy, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with COPD.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. All RTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the physical environment of bus stops, including the presence of sidewalks, ramps, and shelters, varies considerably. The COPD Score must reflect the availability and condition of these features, as they directly impact the ability of individuals with COPD to safely and comfortably access public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Options for Consideration**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. While readily available in Rochester, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during inclement weather or peak demand, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. Companies like Care Ride and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. These services, while potentially more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing, can offer a more comfortable and reliable transportation experience. The availability and cost of these services significantly influence the COPD Score.

**Healthcare Access: The Ultimate Goal**

The ultimate goal is to ensure timely and convenient access to healthcare. The COPD Score reflects the ease with which individuals with COPD can reach their medical appointments, receive necessary treatments, and manage their condition effectively.

The availability of transportation options, the efficiency of those options, and the affordability of those options all contribute to the overall COPD Score. Factors such as the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of parking, and the presence of accessible features on public transit all play a critical role.

**Moving to Rochester: A Transportation Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Rochester, the 14619 ZIP code offers a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, public transit and ride-sharing services offer alternatives. The COPD Score must reflect the individual's specific needs and circumstances.

Individuals with COPD should carefully assess their transportation needs when considering a move to 14619. Factors such as their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their financial resources will all influence their ability to access healthcare. Researching the specific routes, schedules, and accessibility features of the RTS, as well as the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, is crucial.

The COPD Score, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the individual's ability to navigate the transportation landscape and access the healthcare services they need. By carefully considering the transportation options available in 14619, individuals with COPD can make informed decisions about their healthcare and their overall quality of life.