14112, North Evans, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 14112, North Evans, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 14112 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Hospital Of Buffalo with a distance of 12.98 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14112**

ZIP Code 14112, encompassing the charming town of North Evans, New York, presents a fascinating landscape for assessing healthcare access, specifically concerning hypertension management. This score, built upon the critical element of transportation, evaluates the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, impacting their ability to control and manage this prevalent health condition. The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is paramount for individuals with hypertension, as timely intervention and consistent monitoring are crucial for preventing serious complications.

The core of our analysis revolves around transportation options available to residents of 14112, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the practical challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in this area when seeking healthcare, ultimately contributing to their overall health and well-being.

**Drive Time Analysis**

For many residents, the private automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to healthcare facilities from North Evans often involves navigating the network of roads and highways. A significant factor is the proximity to major thoroughfares, such as the New York State Thruway (I-90), which provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers in Buffalo and other nearby cities.

Traveling south on Route 5, a major east-west artery, offers a direct route to healthcare facilities in Angola and Evans. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. The presence of traffic lights and local road conditions further complicate the journey, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing a medical emergency.

The time it takes to reach healthcare facilities from 14112 varies significantly depending on the destination. Driving to the nearest urgent care clinic in Angola might take 15-20 minutes, while a trip to a larger hospital in Buffalo could easily consume 45 minutes to an hour, particularly during rush hour. These drive times are critical considerations for individuals needing regular check-ups, medication refills, or immediate medical attention.

**Public Transit Assessment**

Public transportation options in 14112 are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Erie County Department of Senior Services provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, offering a lifeline for those unable to drive or access other forms of transport.

The availability of fixed-route bus services is minimal in the immediate vicinity of North Evans. The lack of readily accessible public transit can create a substantial barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources or mobility challenges.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for any public transit system. The Erie County Department of Senior Services strives to provide accessible transportation options, but the limited scope of service coverage can still pose difficulties for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

The rise of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has expanded transportation options in many areas. However, the availability of these services in 14112 is not as robust as in more urban centers. Ride-sharing availability can be sporadic, and the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance during their journey.

The cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific provider. While these services provide a vital link to healthcare, the financial burden can be a significant concern for some residents, potentially impacting their ability to attend necessary medical appointments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

Beyond transportation, several other factors influence healthcare access in 14112. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists in the immediate area is crucial. The proximity of pharmacies, where medications can be obtained, is another essential consideration.

The presence of community health centers and other healthcare resources can help bridge the gap in access. These facilities often offer a range of services, including primary care, preventative screenings, and chronic disease management programs.

The affordability of healthcare is a critical factor. Insurance coverage, co-pays, and the cost of medications can all impact an individual’s ability to seek and receive necessary medical care.

**Hypertension Score Implications**

The Hypertension Score for 14112 reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare resources, and socioeconomic factors. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for individuals without access to a car or those who cannot drive. The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially during peak hours, can be a significant barrier to timely medical care.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but the cost and availability of these services can be limiting. The presence of community health centers and other healthcare resources in the area is a positive factor, but their impact is limited by transportation constraints.

The overall score suggests that residents of 14112 face moderate challenges in accessing healthcare, particularly for those with hypertension. The ability to manage hypertension effectively depends on regular medical check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. Transportation barriers can hinder access to these essential components of care, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the Hypertension Score for 14112, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding public transportation options, including fixed-route bus services or on-demand shuttle services, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Increasing the availability of medical transport services and exploring innovative models, such as telehealth, could further bridge the gap in healthcare access. Promoting the use of community health centers and other local resources is crucial.

Educating residents about available transportation options, healthcare resources, and financial assistance programs is essential. Addressing the socioeconomic factors that impact healthcare access, such as insurance coverage and medication affordability, is also critical.

**Conclusion**

The Hypertension Score for 14112 highlights the importance of transportation as a key determinant of healthcare access. The challenges faced by residents in this area underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to improve healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. By addressing transportation barriers and promoting access to healthcare resources, we can help ensure that all residents of 14112 have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The decision to move to North Evans should include careful consideration of these factors, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.