14551, Sodus, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 14551, Sodus, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.69 percent of residents in 14551 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newark-Wayne Community Hospital with a distance of 11.73 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sodus, NY (ZIP Code 14551)

The picturesque village of Sodus, nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of access to crucial healthcare services is a critical factor. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for Sodus (ZIP Code 14551), considering the challenges and opportunities presented by its transportation infrastructure in relation to healthcare access. It's a vital consideration for anyone moving to Sodus or already residing there.

The foundation of our score lies in understanding the transportation landscape. Sodus, a rural community, relies heavily on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for travel are New York State Route 104 (Ridge Road), a major east-west thoroughfare, and New York State Route 14, running north-south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. Delays can exacerbate the stress associated with hypertension.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary concern. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in surrounding towns. Driving to the nearest hospital, Newark-Wayne Community Hospital, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 104. However, this drive time can fluctuate depending on traffic and weather. For specialized cardiology appointments or advanced treatments, residents might need to travel to Rochester, a journey that can take upwards of an hour via Route 104 and the New York State Thruway (I-90). This longer commute significantly impacts the Hypertension Score.

Public transportation options are limited in Sodus. The Wayne County Public Transportation system provides bus services, but routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to medical appointments. Service is infrequent, and routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, particularly those with mobility challenges often associated with hypertension, needs careful consideration. The availability of ADA-compliant buses and the ease of navigating transfer points are crucial factors.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as LifeLine Ambulance or other local providers, often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. However, the availability of these services in Sodus and the associated costs are important considerations. Advance booking is often required, and the scope of service may be limited.

The geographic isolation of Sodus, coupled with its reliance on personal vehicles, creates a transportation barrier for many residents. This situation impacts the Hypertension Score by increasing the time and effort required to access essential healthcare services. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialized treatments become more challenging to manage.

The availability of local pharmacies is a positive factor. Several pharmacies within Sodus offer prescription services and counseling, reducing the need for long-distance travel for medication refills. However, the convenience of local pharmacies does not negate the need for accessible transportation to specialist appointments and hospital visits.

The quality of healthcare providers in the surrounding areas is another crucial element. The presence of qualified cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists is essential for managing hypertension effectively. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance directly impacts the Hypertension Score.

The cost of healthcare, including transportation costs, is a significant concern. The financial burden of frequent medical appointments, medication, and transportation can be substantial, particularly for individuals with limited incomes. This financial strain can exacerbate the stress associated with hypertension and negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Sodus, NY (ZIP Code 14551) reflects a moderate level of accessibility to healthcare. While the presence of local pharmacies and a hospital within a reasonable driving distance offers some advantages, the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long commute times to specialized care facilities pose significant challenges. These factors contribute to a score that underscores the need for careful planning and consideration for residents managing hypertension.

The score also highlights the importance of community initiatives to improve healthcare access. Efforts to expand public transportation, promote ride-sharing programs, and offer subsidized medical transportation services could significantly improve the Hypertension Score. The establishment of telemedicine services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could also play a crucial role in improving healthcare access for Sodus residents.

Moving to Sodus necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Individuals with hypertension should carefully consider the transportation challenges and ensure they have reliable access to medical care. This includes establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician, identifying specialist providers in the surrounding areas, and exploring all available transportation options.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Sodus, NY (ZIP Code 14551) is a dynamic measure that reflects the interplay of transportation infrastructure, healthcare access, and the overall well-being of residents managing hypertension. While the village offers a tranquil lifestyle, the transportation challenges require careful consideration. By understanding these challenges and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents can mitigate the impact of hypertension and maintain a healthy quality of life.