14485, Lima, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 14485, Lima, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.39 percent of residents in 14485 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Strong Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lima, NY (ZIP Code 14485)

Lima, New York, nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the challenges of accessing essential services, particularly healthcare. For individuals considering moving to Lima, or for current residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension, understanding the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities is paramount. This analysis, designed to generate a "Hypertension Score," delves into the realities of **healthcare access** within and around ZIP code 14485, offering a comprehensive overview of available options.

The cornerstone of any assessment of healthcare accessibility is the proximity and ease of reaching medical providers. In Lima, the primary method of travel is by personal vehicle. The town is strategically positioned near several major roadways. Route 5 and 20, the primary east-west arteries, offer direct access to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns like Canandaigua and Avon. Route 15, a north-south connector, provides another avenue for travel.

Drive times, however, are crucial. The nearest hospital, UR Medicine Thompson Health in Canandaigua, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive via Route 5 and 20. This drive, while manageable, can be affected by traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. Avon, home to several medical offices and a satellite facility of Strong Memorial Hospital, is roughly a 15-20 minute drive via Route 15.

For those without personal vehicles, **public transit** options are limited. The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) does not directly serve Lima with fixed-route bus services. However, a demand-response service, the Livingston Area Transportation Service (LATS), provides transportation within Livingston County. This service requires advance booking and operates on a limited schedule, making it less than ideal for spontaneous medical appointments. It is crucial to note the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these services, as LATS offers accessible vehicles for individuals with mobility impairments.

The rise of ride-sharing services has offered another avenue for transportation. Both Uber and Lyft operate in the area, although availability can fluctuate depending on driver presence. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled at the beginning or end of the day, may require advance planning. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, they often require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit.

Considering the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of individual mobility in accessing healthcare in Lima. This is particularly relevant for individuals managing hypertension, a condition often requiring frequent check-ups and medication refills.

The availability of local pharmacies is another critical factor. Lima has a local pharmacy, offering prescription services and over-the-counter medications. This local access reduces the need for extended travel for medication refills, contributing positively to the overall healthcare access profile.

Beyond physical transportation, the availability of telehealth services is also a consideration. Telehealth, utilizing video conferencing and other digital tools, allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and general health advice. The availability of reliable internet access in Lima is, therefore, a crucial enabler of telehealth services.

To generate a "Hypertension Score," we must consider several factors: drive times to medical facilities, availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing and medical transportation options, local pharmacy access, and the potential of telehealth services.

The score should reflect the relative ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. Shorter drive times, readily available public transit, and a robust telehealth infrastructure would contribute to a higher score, indicating better healthcare access. Conversely, longer drive times, limited public transit, and unreliable ride-sharing would lower the score, signaling greater challenges in obtaining necessary medical care.

For an individual considering moving to Lima, the "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the practicality of managing their health condition. This score, combined with an understanding of personal transportation capabilities and healthcare needs, will help in making an informed decision about moving to Lima.

The "Hypertension Score" must also take into account the specific needs of individuals with hypertension. Frequent doctor visits, medication refills, and the potential for emergency care require a reliable and accessible transportation system. The score should reflect the ability of residents to navigate these needs effectively.

The realities of **healthcare access** in Lima, NY, are a complex interplay of geography, infrastructure, and individual circumstances. While the town offers a tranquil environment, the availability of **transportation** options directly impacts the ability of residents to manage their health. Individuals considering **moving to Lima** should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare resources to ensure they can effectively manage their health.