10472, Bronx, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10472, Bronx, New York is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.23 percent of residents in 10472 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bronx Health System with a distance of 1.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 10472

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical aspect of overall well-being, particularly when considering a move to a new area. This report provides a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment for residents of ZIP Code 10472 in the Bronx, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities via various modes of transportation. This assessment considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic context.

The foundation of this analysis lies in the diverse transportation landscape of the Bronx. Residents of 10472, a vibrant community, rely on a combination of personal vehicles, public transportation, and ride-sharing services to reach essential services, including healthcare. Understanding the efficiency and limitations of each mode is crucial for determining the overall health score, which reflects the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

For those who prefer the convenience of personal vehicles, the primary arteries influencing healthcare access in 10472 are the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87), the Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95), and the Hutchinson River Parkway. These major highways, while offering direct routes to hospitals and clinics, are often subject to heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Accessing Montefiore Medical Center – Wakefield Campus, a significant healthcare provider, from within 10472 via the Major Deegan Expressway can range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching Jacobi Medical Center, another vital institution, via the Cross Bronx Expressway can take a similar amount of time. The Hutchinson River Parkway provides a slightly less congested route, though it may require navigating local roads to reach specific destinations.

Local roads like Gun Hill Road, Eastchester Road, and Baychester Avenue serve as crucial connectors, offering alternative routes but often experiencing their own traffic challenges. The overall drive-time assessment considers both the efficiency of the major highways and the potential delays caused by local road conditions, factoring in peak-hour congestion and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities.

**Public Transportation: A Lifeline for Many**

Public transportation plays a vital role in healthcare access for many residents of 10472. The New York City Transit Authority (NYCT) provides a comprehensive network of bus and subway routes, offering a cost-effective and often more predictable alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the area, including the Bx26, Bx28, Bx29, Bx30, and Bx31.

The Bx26, for instance, provides direct access to Montefiore Medical Center – Wakefield Campus, while the Bx28 and Bx30 offer convenient connections to Jacobi Medical Center. The Bx31 connects to the 2 and 5 subway lines. These buses operate with varying frequencies, and understanding their schedules is essential for planning healthcare visits.

The subway system, with the 2 and 5 lines being the most relevant, offers a faster, more direct route to healthcare facilities located near subway stations. However, the distance from a subway station to the final destination may necessitate additional walking or transfers.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor in the public transit assessment. While the NYCT has made significant strides in improving accessibility, not all stations and buses are fully compliant. Residents with disabilities must consider the availability of elevators, ramps, and accessible buses when planning their healthcare journeys. This factor significantly influences the overall health score for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in the Bronx, offering a convenient alternative to both driving and public transportation. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing residents to request a ride directly from their location to their healthcare destination. However, ride-sharing fares can fluctuate based on demand, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in areas with lower service density.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and CareRide, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services provide specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring safe and comfortable transport to and from healthcare appointments. While these services offer a valuable option, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other modes of transportation.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 10472 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area benefits from a robust public transportation network and the availability of ride-sharing services, the reliance on major highways that are prone to traffic congestion presents a significant challenge.

The drive times to major healthcare facilities, while potentially efficient outside of peak hours, can be significantly impacted by traffic delays. Public transportation offers a cost-effective alternative, but accessibility concerns and potential travel times must be considered. Ride-sharing provides convenience but can be subject to fluctuating fares and availability. Medical transport services offer specialized support but come with higher costs.

The overall health score for 10472, therefore, falls within a moderate range. While residents have multiple transportation options, the variability in travel times, the limitations of accessibility, and the potential costs associated with different modes of transportation impact the ease with which they can access healthcare.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are offered. Enhancements to the public transportation system, including increased frequency of bus routes and improved ADA accessibility, would significantly benefit residents. Investment in traffic management systems on major highways could help to mitigate congestion and reduce drive times. Further, promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, particularly for individuals with limited mobility, would be beneficial.

For individuals considering moving to the Bronx, specifically 10472, it is crucial to carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare facilities via various modes of transportation is essential for making informed decisions about housing and lifestyle. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape, empowering residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively and maintain their overall well-being. The ability to easily access healthcare is a key factor in the overall quality of life, making this assessment a valuable tool for residents and prospective movers alike.