10901, Suffern, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10901, Suffern, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.56 percent of residents in 10901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Hospital Of Suffern with a distance of 0.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Suffern, NY (ZIP Code 10901)

The quest for optimal well-being necessitates not only quality healthcare but also the ease with which it can be reached. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 10901 (Suffern, NY), evaluates the accessibility of healthcare services, considering the multifaceted nature of transportation options. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transport solutions, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty residents face in accessing crucial medical care. This information is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Suffern, allowing them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Suffern, nestled in Rockland County, presents a unique transportation landscape. While offering a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to New York City, the ease of accessing healthcare is a critical factor influencing the quality of life. The score will assess the efficiency of navigating to medical facilities, taking into account the various modes of transportation available to residents. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling residents to understand the practical realities of healthcare access within the community.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. The primary artery for vehicular movement in and out of Suffern is the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287). This major highway provides relatively direct access to hospitals and medical centers, both within Rockland County and in neighboring Bergen County, New Jersey. However, peak traffic hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly impact drive times.

For example, a trip to Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, a major healthcare provider, typically takes about 5-10 minutes under normal traffic conditions via NY-59, a crucial east-west thoroughfare. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, adding considerable stress and potential delays for individuals seeking medical attention. Accessing Montefiore Nyack Hospital, located further south in Nyack, requires a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes via the Palisades Interstate Parkway or NY-59, again subject to traffic congestion.

Further afield, reaching hospitals in New York City, such as New York-Presbyterian Hospital or Mount Sinai Hospital, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic, the time of day, and the specific route taken. The George Washington Bridge and the Lincoln Tunnel are major bottlenecks that can significantly extend travel times. Understanding these drive-time variations is critical for residents, especially those with chronic conditions or requiring urgent care.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer not to drive or who wish to avoid traffic congestion. The Metro-North Railroad's Port Jervis Line provides commuter rail service, with a station located directly in Suffern. This line offers direct access to New York City, providing access to a wide array of specialized medical facilities.

The Port Jervis Line, however, may not always be the most direct route to hospitals located within Rockland County. Connecting from the Suffern station to local hospitals often requires a transfer to a bus or a ride-share service. The Rockland County Transit (RCT) bus system provides local bus service, but routes and schedules may not always align perfectly with hospital appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. Metro-North stations and trains are generally ADA-compliant, with elevators and ramps available. RCT buses are also equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor for those relying on public transit. Planning ahead and factoring in potential delays are crucial for a successful healthcare journey.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular for transportation to and from medical appointments. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or who prefer not to navigate traffic. Availability and pricing of ride-share services can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation. The availability of medical transport services is particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey.

Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Empress Ambulance Services provide emergency medical transport. For non-emergency needs, companies such as LogistiCare and Access2Care offer transportation services for appointments and other medical-related travel. The cost of these services can vary, and insurance coverage may be available depending on the specific needs of the individual.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Evaluating the transportation landscape in Suffern, NY (10901), reveals a mixed picture. While the availability of multiple transportation options provides flexibility, challenges exist. Drive times can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transit offers an alternative, but frequency and route connectivity require careful consideration. Ride-share and medical transport services provide additional options, but costs and availability can vary.

Considering these factors, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Suffern, NY (10901), is assessed as **Moderately Accessible**. Residents have access to a range of transportation options, but the efficiency and convenience of these options can be affected by traffic, schedule constraints, and cost considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Suffern, understanding these nuances is essential. Careful planning, utilizing available resources, and considering individual needs are key to ensuring timely and efficient access to healthcare. The score reflects the need for residents to proactively manage their transportation needs to ensure they can access the care they require. The community could benefit from further investment in public transit infrastructure and expanded medical transport services to improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for all residents.