13780, Guilford, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13780, Guilford, New York is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.35 percent of residents in 13780 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chenango Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.61 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Guilford, NY (ZIP Code 13780)

The charming town of Guilford, New York (ZIP Code 13780), nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Southern Tier, presents a unique tapestry of rural tranquility and the challenges inherent in accessing essential services. For individuals managing hypertension, the availability and ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** become paramount considerations. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape and its implications for residents of Guilford, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment that considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of travel, all crucial factors for anyone **moving to Guilford** or already residing within its borders.

Guilford's geography dictates a reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for **transportation** are Route 8, a north-south thoroughfare connecting Guilford to nearby towns and cities, and County Route 35, which provides access to more local destinations. Route 8, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak travel times and inclement weather, particularly during the harsh winters common in this region. This can significantly impact drive times to medical appointments, a critical factor for individuals with hypertension who may require regular monitoring and medication refills.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are essential components of our Hypertension Score. The closest major medical facility is UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 8. This drive time is manageable for most individuals, but the variability due to traffic and weather necessitates careful planning. Another option is Bassett Healthcare Network's Oneonta campus, roughly a 40-50 minute drive, also primarily utilizing Route 8. The longer commute to Oneonta adds to the potential stress and inconvenience, particularly for those experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring frequent follow-up care. Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are scattered throughout the region, offering more immediate options for routine check-ups and medication management.

Public **transportation** options in Guilford are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The lack of robust public transit systems is a common characteristic of rural areas, and Guilford is no exception. The primary public transit provider in the region is the Chenango County Area Transit (CCAT). However, CCAT's services are primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can be a significant hurdle for individuals with hypertension, especially in emergency situations or when sudden medical needs arise.

CCAT does offer some routes that may serve Guilford residents, but the frequency and coverage are limited. Information regarding specific route numbers and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges. Potential riders should contact CCAT directly to confirm route availability, schedule adherence, and accessibility features. This information is vital for accurately assessing the feasibility of public **transportation** for **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence is less consistent than in more urban areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable and potentially expensive. The unpredictability of ride-sharing availability adds another layer of complexity for those managing hypertension, highlighting the importance of having backup **transportation** plans.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer another avenue for **healthcare access**. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans are examples of medical **transportation** providers that may serve the Guilford area. However, the availability and cost of these services should be thoroughly investigated. The cost of medical **transportation** can be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or limited insurance coverage.

The Hypertension Score for Guilford, NY (ZIP Code 13780) reflects the interplay of these factors. While the proximity to UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital offers a relatively short drive time, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential costs of medical **transportation** services all contribute to a lower score. Individuals **moving to Guilford** or already residing there should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and develop comprehensive plans for **healthcare access**.

The score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly revisited. Changes in personal circumstances, such as the acquisition of a vehicle or the availability of a supportive caregiver, can significantly alter the individual's ability to access healthcare. Furthermore, improvements in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, or the introduction of new medical **transportation** options could positively impact the score.

For individuals with hypertension, proactive planning is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in the area, understanding the availability of medication refills, and developing a reliable **transportation** plan that accounts for both routine appointments and potential emergencies. This plan should encompass multiple options, including personal vehicles, the potential use of CCAT, the feasibility of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical **transportation** services.

In conclusion, while Guilford offers a peaceful and attractive environment, the challenges related to **transportation** and **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension should not be underestimated. A thorough understanding of the available options, combined with proactive planning and a willingness to adapt, is crucial for ensuring optimal health management and well-being for those **moving to Guilford** or already calling it home. The Hypertension Score serves as a reminder that **healthcare access** is a multifaceted issue, and that the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is a critical component of successful health management.