13732, Apalachin, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13732, Apalachin, New York is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.22 percent of residents in 13732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Apalachin, NY (ZIP Code 13732)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Apalachin, New York (ZIP code 13732), necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical component of this assessment is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, encompassing transportation options, travel times, and the availability of specialized services. This write-up analyzes the landscape of healthcare access, considering the unique characteristics of Apalachin and its surrounding areas.

Apalachin, a charming town nestled in the Southern Tier of New York, presents a specific set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. The town's relative remoteness and reliance on personal vehicles significantly influence the ease with which residents can reach doctors' offices, hospitals, and other essential medical providers. Understanding these nuances is paramount to formulating a comprehensive health score.

The primary mode of transportation for most Apalachin residents is the personal vehicle. Commuting to healthcare appointments often involves navigating the region's roads, with the most common routes utilizing New York State Route 434 and New York State Route 17. Route 434 serves as a vital artery, connecting Apalachin to neighboring towns and cities. Route 17, a major highway, provides access to larger medical centers and specialist services. The drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in the overall health score.

Traveling to the nearest hospitals, such as Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton, typically takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The trip involves traveling on Route 434 and then connecting to Interstate 86, formerly Route 17. For appointments at specialists or more comprehensive care, residents might need to travel further afield, potentially increasing travel times to an hour or more. These extended travel times can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical attention.

Public transportation options within Apalachin are limited. Broome County Transit, the primary public transit provider for the region, offers limited routes that may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of routes and schedules can be restrictive, particularly for those with appointments outside of typical business hours. While Broome County Transit strives to provide ADA-accessible services, the infrequent service and limited coverage can hinder healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments or those on a fixed income. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly in rural areas, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another resource. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility challenges. These services can be particularly beneficial for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

The overall health score for Apalachin, considering transportation and healthcare access, is influenced by several factors. While the town's proximity to major highways like Route 17 and Route 434 provides access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some relief, but these options may not be accessible or affordable for all residents.

The absence of readily available public transit and the need to rely on personal vehicles impact the health score. Residents without vehicles or those with mobility limitations face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for lengthy travel times further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Apalachin, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the availability of healthcare services in relation to their specific medical requirements. The ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, or the willingness to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services are all essential considerations.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of specialized healthcare services within a reasonable distance. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency care facilities within a reasonable travel time is critical. The availability of mental health services, dental care, and other essential healthcare providers also plays a significant role in the overall assessment.

Further enhancing the health score would involve improvements in public transportation, such as expanded routes and increased frequency of service, especially to healthcare facilities. Encouraging the development of telehealth services and promoting remote patient monitoring could also improve healthcare access for residents of Apalachin. Initiatives to support and subsidize ride-sharing or medical transportation services for low-income individuals or those with disabilities could also significantly improve the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Apalachin, NY (ZIP code 13732), is influenced by a complex interplay of transportation options, travel times, and the availability of healthcare services. While the town benefits from its proximity to major roadways, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for healthcare access. Understanding these factors is essential for residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers to ensure that the community can thrive and receive the healthcare they need.