13905, Binghamton, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13905, Binghamton, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.44 percent of residents in 13905 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.87 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13905 (Binghamton, NY)**

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare, particularly for those managing conditions like hypertension, is paramount when evaluating a new place to live. This analysis focuses on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 13905 in Binghamton, New York, considering the critical importance of timely medical attention.

The “Hypertension Score” assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, specifically those equipped to manage hypertension, from various points within the 13905 ZIP code. This score considers drive times, public transportation availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport options. A higher score indicates better access, reflecting shorter travel times and a greater variety of transportation choices. The ultimate goal is to inform potential residents about the practical realities of healthcare access, an essential factor when **moving to Binghamton**.

**Driving Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel within and around 13905 are the I-86 (Southern Tier Expressway) and NY-17, offering swift access to major medical centers. The proximity to these highways is a significant advantage for residents. Depending on location within the ZIP code, travel times to healthcare facilities like UHS Wilson Medical Center, located off Riverside Drive, can vary.

For those residing closer to the downtown area, accessing UHS Wilson Medical Center might involve navigating city streets like Court Street and State Street, potentially adding to commute times during peak hours. Conversely, residents in the more suburban areas of 13905, closer to the highway, can expect shorter drive times. The availability of ample parking at medical facilities is also a crucial consideration.

Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times. Therefore, the Hypertension Score considers the variability of travel times throughout the day. Real-time traffic data and navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze are indispensable tools for planning medical appointments.

**Public Transportation Pathways:**

The Broome County Transit (BCT) system provides public transportation within Binghamton. Several bus routes serve the 13905 ZIP code, connecting residents to essential healthcare facilities. Route 12, for example, serves the downtown area and provides access to UHS Wilson Medical Center. Route 1, another key route, connects to the greater Binghamton area.

The BCT system offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transportation. However, the frequency of bus routes and the overall travel time can be a limiting factor for some. The schedule of routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, must be considered when planning healthcare visits.

The convenience of public transportation is highly dependent on an individual’s location within the ZIP code. Residents living near bus routes enjoy greater access, while those in more remote areas might face longer commutes. The BCT website provides detailed route maps and schedules, allowing residents to plan their trips effectively.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the Binghamton area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation, especially for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle. The availability of ride-sharing services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive.

Medical transportation services, like CareRide, are also available, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized assistance, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services must be factored into the overall cost of healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access Evaluation:**

The Hypertension Score considers the accessibility of primary care physicians, specialists (cardiologists, endocrinologists), pharmacies, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance from 13905. The proximity of these facilities, along with their hours of operation, significantly impacts the score.

The availability of telehealth services, which allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, is also considered. Telehealth can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments or medication management. The ability to access telehealth services can enhance healthcare access, especially for those with limited transportation options.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities:**

UHS Wilson Medical Center, a major healthcare provider in the region, offers a wide range of services, including cardiology and endocrinology. Its location off Riverside Drive makes it relatively accessible by car. Lourdes Hospital, another major healthcare provider, is also within a reasonable distance.

Several urgent care facilities are located within the Binghamton area, providing immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. These facilities can be crucial for managing hypertension-related emergencies. Pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens, are readily available throughout the area, ensuring that residents can easily obtain their medications.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

The Hypertension Score is influenced by several factors, including:

* **Drive Times:** Shorter drive times to healthcare facilities increase the score.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability and frequency of bus routes improve the score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of these services enhance the score.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The closer the facilities, the higher the score.
* **Specialist Availability:** The presence of cardiologists and endocrinologists improves the score.
* **Telehealth Access:** The availability of telehealth services enhances the score.

**Conclusion:**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 13905 reflects a generally favorable environment for healthcare access. The presence of major highways, public transportation options, and ride-sharing services provides residents with multiple transportation choices. The proximity of major medical centers, urgent care facilities, and pharmacies further enhances healthcare access. While traffic congestion and the limitations of public transportation can impact travel times, the overall picture suggests that residents of 13905 have reasonable access to the healthcare they need. This is a key consideration when **moving to Binghamton**.