10975, Southfields, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10975, Southfields, New York is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.96 percent of residents in 10975 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Hospital Of Suffern with a distance of 9.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Southfields, NY (ZIP Code 10975)

The overall health score for residents of Southfields, New York (ZIP Code 10975), considering their access to healthcare, is a complex calculation. It hinges on the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, encompassing the efficiency and availability of transportation options. This write-up delves into the specifics of commuting to healthcare, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive overview for anyone considering moving to Southfields.

Southfields, nestled in Orange County, presents a unique challenge. Its location, while offering scenic beauty, also means residents often face longer travel times to access specialized medical care. Proximity to major highways and the availability of public transit are vital factors in determining the health score. The ability to reach healthcare providers quickly and reliably directly impacts health outcomes, influencing everything from preventative care to emergency response.

**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure:**

For those who prefer to drive, the major arteries connecting Southfields to healthcare facilities are crucial. The **New York State Thruway (I-87)** serves as the primary route, providing relatively direct access to hospitals in nearby towns and cities. The **Harriman State Parkway**, while a scenic alternative, can be prone to congestion, particularly during peak hours, potentially delaying critical medical appointments.

Driving times vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. To reach Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, a journey of approximately 15-20 minutes via the Thruway is typical. However, reaching more distant hospitals, such as Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital in Newburgh, can take upwards of 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The condition of local roads like **Route 17**, **Route 17A**, and **Seven Lakes Drive** can also impact travel times, especially during inclement weather.

The presence of traffic lights and the overall road infrastructure within Southfields itself are generally adequate. However, the absence of dedicated bike lanes or pedestrian-friendly sidewalks in many areas limits alternative transportation options for those seeking healthcare. This reliance on automobiles underscores the importance of reliable vehicle ownership and maintenance for residents.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit plays a vital role in healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles. The **Metro-North Railroad’s Port Jervis Line** offers service from the Tuxedo station, a short drive from Southfields. This line provides a direct connection to New York City, where a vast array of specialized medical facilities are available. However, the train schedule may not always align perfectly with medical appointment times, requiring careful planning.

The **Orange County Transit (OCT)** bus system also provides limited service within the county. While OCT routes may not directly serve every healthcare facility, they can offer connections to other transportation hubs, facilitating access to medical care. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

The reliability and frequency of public transit are essential considerations. Delays or cancellations can have serious consequences for patients. The need for improved public transit options, including increased frequency and expanded routes, is a key factor in improving the health score for Southfields residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. The availability of these services in Southfields is generally good, providing a convenient way to reach healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While these services can be invaluable, they can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability and affordability of medical transportation are critical factors in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Specific Medical Transportation Brands:**

Several medical transportation brands serve the Southfields area. **CareRide Medical Transportation** and **MediRide Transportation** are among the providers that offer non-emergency medical transportation. **Ambulette Services** are also available, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained attendants. These services typically require pre-booking, and the cost varies depending on the distance and specific needs of the patient.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Southfields, considering healthcare access, is moderately positive. While the proximity to major highways and the presence of public transit offer some advantages, challenges remain. The reliance on automobiles, the potential for long travel times, and the limitations of public transit all impact the score.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides additional options, but their cost and availability can be a concern. The health score can be improved by enhancing public transit options, including increased frequency and expanded routes, as well as promoting the affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

**Conclusion: Considerations for Moving to Southfields:**

For those considering moving to Southfields, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is crucial. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation infrastructure presents certain challenges. Potential residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare facilities.

The overall health score for Southfields can be improved by addressing the transportation challenges and advocating for improved healthcare access. This includes supporting initiatives to enhance public transit, promote ride-sharing affordability, and ensure the availability of medical transportation services. The future health and well-being of Southfields residents depend on the collective efforts to improve healthcare access and create a healthier community.