13902, Binghamton, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13902, Binghamton, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

95.12 percent of residents in 13902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.72 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Binghamton's 13902

The challenge of managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, is compounded by difficulties accessing consistent healthcare. This is particularly true when considering the complexities of transportation. In Binghamton's 13902 ZIP code, a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" must factor in the diverse transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This score will assess the ease and efficiency of reaching essential healthcare providers, directly impacting the ability to control and manage hypertension effectively.

The 13902 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of the city of Binghamton, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area is served by a network of roads, public transportation, and other mobility solutions. Understanding these options, their limitations, and their accessibility is crucial for individuals managing hypertension, especially those considering moving to Binghamton.

**The Road to Wellness: Driving Times and Navigation**

For those who drive, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare in 13902 are Interstate 81 (I-81) and Route 17 (also known as the Southern Tier Expressway). These highways offer relatively quick routes to major hospitals and medical centers, such as UHS Wilson Medical Center and Lourdes Hospital. However, drive times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and traffic volume.

During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, congestion on I-81 can add considerable time to a commute. Route 17, while generally less congested, may also experience delays, especially near exits and during construction. Local roads, such as Court Street and Main Street, provide access to smaller clinics and physician offices but can be slow-moving due to traffic lights and pedestrian activity.

To calculate a meaningful Hypertension Score, drive times must be meticulously assessed. A standard drive to a primary care physician, a cardiologist, or a pharmacy should be measured during peak and off-peak hours. This data should be readily available through online mapping services like Google Maps or Apple Maps, but the score must also consider the potential for unexpected delays.

**Public Transit: A Vital Link**

The Broome County Transit (BCT) system provides public transportation within Binghamton and the surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the 13902 ZIP code, offering access to various healthcare facilities. Route 1, Route 2, and Route 7, for instance, are frequently used to reach hospitals and medical offices.

However, public transit presents its own set of challenges. Bus schedules may not align perfectly with appointment times, requiring careful planning. Waiting times at bus stops can be extended, especially during inclement weather. Furthermore, the frequency of service may be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The Hypertension Score must incorporate an evaluation of the BCT system's accessibility. The BCT fleet includes buses equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as ramps and designated seating. However, individuals with mobility limitations may still find navigating the system challenging. The score must also consider the distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities, as walking distances can be a barrier for some patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Binghamton and offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand rides, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

The Hypertension Score must account for the financial burden of ride-sharing. The cost of rides to and from medical appointments can quickly accumulate, potentially impacting an individual's ability to afford necessary healthcare.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, cater to individuals with specific needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility. However, they typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other options.

The score should assess the availability and accessibility of medical transport services in 13902. It should consider the types of services offered, the cost, and the ease of scheduling.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score: A Holistic Approach**

The final Hypertension Score for 13902 must integrate all these factors. It should be a comprehensive assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare, considering the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation mode.

The score should be based on a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. Drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing costs, and medical transport availability should all be assigned specific weights based on their relative importance.

For example, drive times might be weighted heavily for individuals who drive, while public transit accessibility might be more critical for those who rely on buses. The score should also consider the specific needs of individuals with hypertension, such as those with mobility limitations or those who require frequent medical appointments.

The resulting Hypertension Score should provide a clear and concise overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in 13902. This information can be invaluable for individuals managing hypertension, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can also be a critical factor for those considering moving to Binghamton, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Ultimately, the goal of the Hypertension Score is to empower individuals to take control of their health by providing them with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of transportation and healthcare access in Binghamton's 13902 ZIP code. This will promote a healthier community.