12482, South Cairo, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12482, South Cairo, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.26 percent of residents in 12482 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Columbia Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12482

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 12482 (South Cairo, New York), focusing on healthcare access through various transportation modes. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to South Cairo, understanding the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing essential medical care.

The health score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach healthcare facilities. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score signifies potential difficulties. This score is not a definitive judgment but a tool to inform decisions about healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

South Cairo's location in Greene County presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation for many residents is personal vehicles. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of understanding drive times to medical facilities.

The major thoroughfare connecting South Cairo to healthcare hubs is **New York State Route 23**. This road provides access to Catskill to the east and Cairo to the west. Travel times can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. During peak hours, especially in the morning and late afternoon, congestion can increase commute times.

Accessing facilities further afield, such as those in Hudson or Albany, necessitates travel on **New York State Route 32** and **Interstate 87 (The New York State Thruway)**. These routes offer faster travel speeds but can also be subject to traffic delays, particularly around toll plazas and during inclement weather. The Thruway provides a direct route to Albany, but the distance and potential for delays must be considered.

The drive time to the nearest hospital, Columbia Memorial Health in Hudson, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Albany Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is approximately an hour's drive via the Thruway. Smaller clinics and doctor's offices within Cairo are generally accessible within 10 to 15 minutes.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in South Cairo are limited. Greene County Public Transportation (GCPT) provides bus services throughout the county. However, the frequency and coverage are not extensive, particularly for accessing healthcare facilities.

GCPT routes serving South Cairo include routes that may provide limited access to healthcare facilities in Cairo or Catskill. These routes may have limited operating hours, typically running during weekdays with reduced or no service on weekends and holidays. The lack of frequent service can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. GCPT buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including ramps or lifts. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of using public transit for medical appointments should be carefully assessed.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the South Cairo area, although their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Wait times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak demand periods could increase costs. The reliability of ride-sharing for time-sensitive medical appointments needs careful evaluation.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services can be crucial for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit.

Companies like MedStar and AMR (American Medical Response) provide NEMT services in the region. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transport can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The health score for South Cairo reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The cost of medical transport, the distance to major hospitals, and the potential for traffic delays also impact the overall assessment.

For individuals considering moving to South Cairo, it is crucial to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the availability and accessibility of GCPT services and medical transport options.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 12482 is moderate. While there are healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, transportation limitations pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some options, but these services may have limitations in terms of cost, availability, and reliability.

The score is a starting point for understanding the healthcare access landscape in South Cairo. Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare services they require, assess their transportation needs, and explore all available options. This will enable them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve healthcare access in South Cairo, several measures could be implemented. Expanding GCPT services, increasing the frequency of routes, and extending operating hours would be beneficial. Promoting ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers could also enhance accessibility.

Community initiatives to educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources are also crucial. By working together, the community can improve healthcare access and enhance the overall health and well-being of its residents.