14784, Stockton, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14784, Stockton, New York is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.35 percent of residents in 14784 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brooks-Tlc Hospital System, Inc with a distance of 11.34 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stockton, NY (ZIP Code 14784)

The crisp air of Stockton, New York, nestled in the heart of Chautauqua County, offers a tranquil setting for those seeking respite. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of this rural haven is interwoven with the practical realities of healthcare access. This analysis provides a "COPD Score" assessment for transportation options within ZIP Code 14784, considering the critical need for reliable and timely access to medical care, a vital factor for anyone contemplating moving to Stockton.

The COPD Score, in this context, evaluates the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services. This is crucial because COPD management often necessitates frequent medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency care. The ability to navigate these logistical hurdles directly impacts the quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Stockton are the New York State Route 380 and County Route 380. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters common to this region. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical consideration.

The closest significant healthcare hub is UPMC Chautauqua, located in Jamestown, approximately 15 to 20 minutes away by car, depending on traffic and road conditions. The most direct route involves taking NY-380 East and then merging onto I-86 East. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be affected by rush hour traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

For specialized care, such as pulmonology or advanced respiratory treatments, residents might need to travel further. The drive to Erie, Pennsylvania, home to several larger hospitals and medical centers, takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes via I-86 West and I-90 West. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with compromised respiratory function.

The drive to Westfield Memorial Hospital, a smaller facility, is approximately 20 minutes via NY-380 West. This facility may be suitable for some primary care needs, but it’s essential to understand its limitations regarding specialized COPD care.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 14784 are limited. The Chautauqua Area Regional Transit System (CARTS) provides some service, but its routes and schedules are geared towards serving the broader county, and frequency can be an issue. Public transit is often a critical component of healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or have limited mobility.

CARTS operates a demand-response service, which means that riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can be challenging for individuals with COPD who may require unscheduled medical attention or have fluctuating health needs. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial factor. CARTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the availability of these vehicles and the scheduling process must be considered when assessing the feasibility of public transit for COPD patients.

The lack of frequent and readily available public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals with COPD in Stockton. Reliance on public transit can lead to extended travel times and potential delays in accessing medical care, a serious concern for those managing respiratory conditions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Stockton is limited, particularly in the more rural areas. While these services may be present, their reliability and availability, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, cannot be guaranteed. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

Medical transportation services are available, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Chautauqua County area, including but not limited to, local providers specializing in non-emergency medical transportation.

These services, while potentially more expensive than public transit or personal vehicles, offer a valuable lifeline for individuals with COPD who cannot drive or rely on family members for transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, especially for those with limited incomes.

**The COPD Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the COPD Score for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP Code 14784 is moderate. While the proximity to UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown offers relatively quick access to medical care, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net, but the associated costs must be considered.

The overall score reflects the balance between the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the limitations of available transportation options. Individuals with COPD considering moving to Stockton should carefully weigh these factors, considering their individual needs and financial resources. A proactive approach, including pre-planning transportation for medical appointments and exploring all available resources, is essential for successful COPD management in this rural setting.

The ability to navigate the transportation landscape in Stockton is intrinsically linked to healthcare access. For those with COPD, this means the difference between timely medical attention and potential delays. The COPD Score highlights the need for careful planning, reliance on alternative transportation solutions, and a strong understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.