12167, Stamford, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12167, Stamford, New York is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.28 percent of residents in 12167 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Peter's Hospital with a distance of 43.31 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12167 (Stamford, NY)

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Stamford, NY (ZIP Code 12167) requires a deep dive into the transportation landscape. This rural community's well-being is inextricably linked to its ability to reach medical facilities. A complex interplay of drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options paints a picture of both opportunities and challenges. This analysis considers the practical realities faced by residents seeking healthcare, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Stamford and evaluating its healthcare access.

The primary mode of transportation in Stamford is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial. Residents rely heavily on New York State Route 23, the main artery through the town, to access healthcare. Traveling east on Route 23 leads to Margaretville Hospital, approximately a 20-minute drive. This is the closest hospital, making it a critical resource for urgent care and general medical needs.

However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel further. Heading west on Route 23 connects to Oneonta, approximately a 45-minute drive. Here, A.O. Fox Hospital offers a broader range of services, including specialists and advanced medical technologies. The journey involves navigating winding roads, especially during inclement weather, which can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Further afield, Albany offers a comprehensive range of healthcare options, but the drive becomes considerably longer. This journey involves connecting to Interstate 88, adding approximately a 1.5-hour drive to the total travel time. This extended commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent appointments. The ability to maintain consistent healthcare becomes more challenging with increased travel time.

Public transportation options in Stamford are extremely limited. Delaware County Public Transit operates a demand-response service, providing transportation within the county. However, this service requires advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. Route frequency and operating hours are limited, making it less reliable for routine healthcare appointments. The lack of fixed-route bus service significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations. ADA accessibility features on the available public transit are essential, yet the limited service restricts its usefulness.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence is not as consistent as in more urban environments. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. This makes ride-sharing a potentially unreliable option for time-sensitive medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another option. These services often provide transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. However, these services may require pre-booking and can be costly. The availability of such services within the local community is a vital factor in determining the overall health score.

The overall health score in Stamford, NY, is therefore influenced by a combination of factors. While the proximity to Margaretville Hospital provides a crucial resource, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. The extended drive times to more comprehensive healthcare facilities in Oneonta and Albany add complexity, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services further impact the overall picture.

For individuals considering moving to Stamford, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those without reliable access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in accessing routine and specialized medical care. Careful consideration should be given to the potential impact of travel times and transportation costs on their overall health and well-being.

The absence of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create a vulnerability, particularly for the elderly, disabled, and those with limited financial resources. The need for improved public transit options and the expansion of medical transportation services are critical for enhancing healthcare access and improving the overall health score for the residents of Stamford. The community must strive to improve transportation to healthcare.

The overall health score is not just about proximity to healthcare facilities; it is also about the ease and affordability of accessing them. The current transportation infrastructure in Stamford presents both opportunities and challenges. While the presence of a local hospital is a significant advantage, the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access.

The overall health score is a reflection of the community's ability to support the health and well-being of its residents. Addressing the transportation challenges is a crucial step towards improving healthcare access and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The future of healthcare in Stamford is inextricably linked to the evolution of its transportation infrastructure.