14626, Rochester, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14626, Rochester, New York is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.77 percent of residents in 14626 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Hospital with a distance of 1.52 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14626

The quest for optimal healthcare access, especially for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a critical factor when considering a move. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within Rochester, New York's ZIP code 14626, providing a COPD Score assessment. This score reflects the ease with which residents can access healthcare facilities, considering various transportation options and their suitability for individuals with COPD.

The 14626 ZIP code, encompassing a portion of the city of Rochester, presents a unique transportation challenge. The area is a blend of residential neighborhoods and commercial zones, impacting healthcare access. The COPD Score aims to illuminate the complexities of navigating this environment, particularly for those seeking respiratory care.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option hinges on proximity to healthcare providers and the prevailing traffic conditions. Major arteries, including Interstate 490 (I-490), are crucial for reaching hospitals and specialized clinics. Rush-hour congestion, particularly on I-490, can significantly extend travel times.

Access to Strong Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is a key consideration. From various points within 14626, a drive to Strong typically involves navigating local roads like West Henrietta Road and Elmwood Avenue before merging onto I-490. The drive can range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the starting point and traffic flow.

Rochester General Hospital, another vital healthcare resource, is accessible via I-490 and local roads. The drive time can vary from 15 to 30 minutes, again influenced by traffic patterns. Smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout the area offer additional choices, often reachable within a 10- to 15-minute drive.

Local roads like South Clinton Avenue and East Henrietta Road offer alternative routes, but these can be susceptible to traffic signals and slower speeds. Careful planning is crucial, especially for individuals with COPD who may find prolonged driving stressful.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Rochester Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides public transit options within 14626. Several bus routes traverse the area, offering access to healthcare facilities. The routes relevant to healthcare access include the 1, 2, 4, and 11. These routes typically provide service to Strong Memorial Hospital and Rochester General Hospital.

RTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. However, bus travel times can be longer than driving, and the need for transfers can further extend travel duration. COPD patients may find the physical exertion of boarding and disembarking buses challenging.

The frequency of bus service varies depending on the route and time of day. During peak hours, buses run more frequently, but service can be less frequent during evenings and weekends. Careful planning is essential to ensure timely arrival at medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing for door-to-door service. However, ride-share availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained drivers, providing assistance to individuals with mobility challenges. Medical transportation services may require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**COPD Score Assessment:**

The COPD Score for 14626 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While driving offers the most direct route, traffic congestion can pose a challenge. Public transit provides a viable alternative, but travel times and physical exertion should be considered. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer additional options, but availability and cost vary.

For individuals with COPD, the best transportation choice will depend on their individual needs and circumstances. Factors to consider include the severity of their COPD, their mobility limitations, their financial resources, and their comfort level with different modes of transportation.

**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When considering a move to Rochester, prioritize living near healthcare facilities or along major bus routes.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments with ample time for travel, considering potential traffic delays or bus schedules.
* **Explore options:** Research and compare the costs and benefits of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Utilize support:** Enlist the help of family, friends, or healthcare providers to assist with transportation arrangements.
* **Advocate for improvements:** Support initiatives that enhance public transportation and improve healthcare access for individuals with COPD.

**Conclusion:**

The 14626 ZIP code presents a complex transportation landscape. While various options exist, each has its advantages and disadvantages for individuals with COPD. Careful planning, informed decision-making, and proactive utilization of available resources are essential for ensuring reliable and accessible healthcare access. This COPD Score assessment provides a framework for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within 14626, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their healthcare and their living arrangements. The goal is to promote seamless transportation to healthcare, allowing individuals to focus on their health and well-being.