14476, Kendall, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 14476, Kendall, New York is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.67 percent of residents in 14476 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Hospital with a distance of 19.43 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kendall, NY (ZIP Code 14476)

The quiet charm of Kendall, New York, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 14476, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on ease of access to medical facilities, particularly for those requiring regular check-ups and medication management. This analysis is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Kendall, ensuring they can maintain consistent healthcare access.

The “Hypertension Score” considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. It acknowledges the unique challenges faced by individuals with hypertension, including the need for timely appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency care. The score reflects the overall ease of navigating the transportation network to access necessary healthcare services.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Within Kendall itself, navigating is generally straightforward. The primary arteries are Route 18 (Lake Road), running east-west along the lakeshore, and Route 237, providing north-south access. These roads are typically well-maintained, though winter weather can present challenges.

The nearest major medical facilities are located in Brockport and Albion. Driving to Lakeside Memorial Hospital in Brockport involves a journey of approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 18 and Route 31. This route offers a relatively direct and predictable commute. The drive to Strong West in Brockport is similar.

Albion's Orleans Community Health is accessible in about 20-25 minutes via Route 237 south to Route 31. These routes are generally free-flowing outside of peak traffic hours. However, rush hour, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times, can extend travel times.

The drive to Rochester, with its more extensive medical resources, can be a significant time commitment. Depending on the specific location within Rochester, the drive can range from 45 minutes to an hour via Route 18 and the Route 531 expressway, or Route 237 south to the New York State Thruway (I-90) and then north. This longer commute necessitates careful planning for appointments and potential emergencies.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Kendall are limited. The primary provider is the Orleans County Public Transit (OCPT). While OCPT offers demand-response services, meaning you call and schedule a ride, it's not designed for spontaneous trips. It requires advance booking, often 24 hours in advance. This can pose challenges for individuals with hypertension needing immediate medical attention or regular, predictable appointments.

OCPT does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking can significantly impact the "Hypertension Score." The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing becomes more pronounced.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their presence is less consistent than in urban centers. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can be a significant concern for individuals with hypertension who require timely transportation to medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as those provided by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available. These services often offer door-to-door transport, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services come with a cost, and insurance coverage varies. Researching and understanding insurance coverage for these services is crucial.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Kendall, NY (14476) reflects a mixed picture. While the immediate area offers basic healthcare services, access to specialized care and comprehensive medical facilities requires travel. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, and public transportation options are limited. Ride-sharing availability, while present, is not always reliable.

The score acknowledges the importance of transportation in healthcare access, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The need for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care necessitates a reliable and accessible transportation network.

**Factors Impacting the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** Relatively short drives to Brockport and Albion provide decent access to local medical facilities. Longer drives to Rochester, however, can be a barrier.
* **Public Transportation:** Limited public transit options, requiring advance booking, significantly impact accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Variable availability of ride-sharing services introduces uncertainty.
* **Medical Transportation:** Specialized medical transport offers solutions but comes with cost and insurance considerations.
* **Proximity to Emergency Services:** The distance to hospitals and emergency rooms is a critical factor, especially for individuals with hypertension.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Kendall:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Ensure reliable access to a vehicle or explore ride-sharing options.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify primary care physicians and specialists within a reasonable driving distance.
* **Understand Insurance Coverage:** Confirm insurance coverage for medical transportation services.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Familiarize yourself with emergency services and transportation options.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the trade-offs between the quiet lifestyle of Kendall and the need for convenient healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Kendall offers a serene lifestyle, but individuals with hypertension must carefully consider the transportation landscape. While the area provides access to basic healthcare, accessing specialized care and emergency services requires planning and potentially longer travel times. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of understanding the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. Prospective residents should thoroughly assess their individual needs and preferences to ensure they can maintain consistent and timely access to the medical care they require. Planning is key for successful healthcare access in this charming lakeside community.