14622, Rochester, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 14622, Rochester, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.60 percent of residents in 14622 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rochester General Hospital with a distance of 2.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14622

The journey to managing hypertension in Rochester’s 14622 ZIP code involves more than just a doctor's appointment; it's a complex dance with transportation. This write-up assesses the 'Hypertension Score' for residents, considering the ease with which they can access vital healthcare services. Understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation options is critical for effective health management, especially for those with hypertension, a condition demanding consistent monitoring and medication adherence. This analysis will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those *moving to Rochester* seeking optimal *healthcare access*.

The foundation of our analysis begins with the automobile, the predominant mode of *transportation* in the 14622 area. Residents enjoy relatively easy access to healthcare facilities via car, but the devil lies in the details. Consider a hypothetical patient residing near the intersection of Chili Avenue and Westside Drive. Reaching the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a primary destination for specialized cardiology and hypertension care, involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route typically utilizes Chili Avenue, merging onto the I-490 East, and then exiting onto Crittenden Road.

Alternatively, for those seeking care at Rochester General Hospital (RGH), the drive is slightly longer, around 20-25 minutes. This route would involve navigating Chili Avenue, then connecting to the I-390 North, and exiting onto West Ridge Road, followed by a turn onto Portland Avenue. Peak traffic hours, especially during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend these drive times, potentially impacting patients' ability to arrive on time for appointments or pick up medications.

Navigating the local roadways, such as Buffalo Road, Scottsville Road, and Genesee Street, also presents its own set of challenges. These roads, while offering alternative routes, are often congested, particularly during rush hour. The presence of traffic lights and intersections can further slow down travel, adding to the overall stress and potentially exacerbating hypertension symptoms.

Public transit, provided by the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), offers an alternative, but its efficacy for hypertension patients requires careful consideration. Several bus routes serve the 14622 area, including the 4, 11, 12, and 40. The 4 route, for instance, travels along Chili Avenue, providing access to various medical offices and pharmacies. The 11 route operates along Buffalo Road, offering access to healthcare facilities further east. The 12 route connects to downtown Rochester, where patients can transfer to other routes for broader access. The 40 route is a more direct option to the URMC campus.

However, public transit in Rochester, while improving, still presents challenges for individuals with hypertension. Long wait times, potential for overcrowding, and the physical exertion required to navigate bus stops and transfers can be detrimental. While all RGRTA buses are ADA-accessible, ensuring ease of boarding and disembarking for individuals with mobility limitations, the overall travel time can be significantly longer than driving. Moreover, the availability of bus routes during evenings and weekends is limited, making it difficult for patients to access care outside of standard business hours.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option, providing on-demand *transportation*. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, especially for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. Furthermore, the lack of dedicated medical transport features, such as assistance with carrying medical equipment, can be a disadvantage for some patients.

Medical transport services, such as Care Ride and MedTrans, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking, and can accommodate medical equipment. While these services offer a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which could be a burden for some patients. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly for urgent or last-minute appointments.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 14622, therefore, is multifaceted. While the area benefits from relatively easy access to healthcare facilities via car, the reliance on personal vehicles creates vulnerabilities related to traffic congestion and the cost of ownership. Public transit offers an alternative, but its limitations in terms of travel time, frequency, and convenience pose challenges for hypertension patients. Ride-sharing services provide flexibility but can be costly and unreliable, while medical transport services offer specialized support but may require advance planning and incur additional expenses.

For individuals *moving to Rochester* and considering the 14622 area, it is crucial to assess their individual *transportation* needs and preferences. Factors such as their ability to drive, financial resources, and the frequency of their healthcare appointments should be carefully considered. Those with hypertension should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable *transportation*, and the availability of support services to ensure effective management of their condition. Understanding the nuances of *healthcare access* in 14622 empowers residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.