14411, Albion, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 14411, Albion, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.24 percent of residents in 14411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medina Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Albion, NY (ZIP Code 14411)

The quaint village of Albion, nestled in the heart of Orleans County, New York, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 14411, evaluating how easily residents can access essential medical services, with a specific focus on those requiring frequent check-ups and specialized care. This analysis will provide a basis for a "Hypertension Score," a hypothetical metric reflecting the ease of navigating the healthcare system, critical for anyone considering moving to Albion or already residing there.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent and timely access to medical appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency care. Transportation, therefore, becomes a crucial determinant of their overall health and well-being. The effectiveness of the local transportation network directly impacts a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively.

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation in Albion. The village is primarily served by the east-west thoroughfare of **Route 31**, a vital artery connecting Albion to neighboring towns and cities. North-south travel is facilitated by **Route 98**, offering access to areas further afield. The **New York State Thruway (I-90)**, though not directly traversing Albion, is easily accessible via **Exit 47 (Le Roy)**, approximately 25 minutes east, or **Exit 48A (Batavia)**, about 20 minutes west.

For those with hypertension, the drive times to healthcare facilities are paramount. The **Orleans Community Health (OCH)** in Albion is the primary healthcare provider, offering primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services. Drive times within Albion are generally manageable, typically under 10 minutes. However, access to specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities.

Rochester, approximately 40 miles east, hosts a concentration of hospitals and specialist practices. Driving to Rochester via the Thruway or Route 31 can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Buffalo, about 60 miles west, presents a similar travel time. These longer distances can pose a significant burden on individuals with hypertension, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who need frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in Albion are limited. The **Orleans County Public Transportation (OCPT)** provides bus services within the county. However, the routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to Rochester or Buffalo. The OCPT does offer ADA-accessible buses, an essential feature for individuals with mobility challenges. The routes and schedules should be researched thoroughly as they may not align with the needs of those with hypertension.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Albion, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor for individuals on fixed incomes, a common demographic among those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is a critical consideration.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer an alternative for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transportation. These services are typically reserved for non-emergency medical transportation, such as dialysis or physical therapy appointments. The availability and cost of these services in Albion should be investigated.

The "Hypertension Score" for Albion (14411) would need to incorporate several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options would all be crucial components. The score would also consider the cost of transportation, the frequency of appointments required for hypertension management, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

A high "Hypertension Score" would indicate easy access to healthcare, with short drive times, reliable public transportation, and readily available ride-sharing or medical transportation options. A low score would suggest significant challenges, including long drive times, limited public transportation, and unreliable or expensive transportation alternatives.

For individuals considering moving to Albion, the "Hypertension Score" would serve as a valuable tool in assessing the suitability of the location. It would provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The score would also highlight the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options to ensure effective management of hypertension.

Albion, like many rural communities, faces the challenge of balancing the benefits of a close-knit community with the limitations of its transportation infrastructure. While the village offers a welcoming environment, the distance to specialized medical care and the limitations of public transportation necessitate careful planning for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" would encourage the community to address these challenges. It could prompt discussions about improving public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation services. These initiatives would improve healthcare access and enhance the quality of life for all residents, especially those managing chronic health conditions.

In conclusion, navigating the healthcare system in Albion (14411) requires a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape. The "Hypertension Score" would serve as a valuable metric for assessing the ease of healthcare access, highlighting the importance of reliable transportation for individuals managing hypertension. This assessment should be considered by anyone contemplating a move to Albion, ensuring they are fully informed about the transportation challenges and opportunities that may impact their health and well-being.