13738, Blodgett Mills, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13738, Blodgett Mills, New York is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Guthrie Cortland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: ZIP Code 13738 (Blodgett Mills, NY)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 13738, focusing on the critical element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. The unique rural landscape of Blodgett Mills, NY, presents distinct challenges and opportunities in ensuring residents can readily reach medical facilities. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents and current community members.

The geographic isolation of Blodgett Mills necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The primary arteries for **transportation** are NY-90 and NY-13. These roads, while offering scenic views, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters common in upstate New York. Snow and ice can significantly impact drive times and safety, potentially delaying or hindering access to vital medical appointments.

The nearest major healthcare hub is in Ithaca, NY, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via NY-90. This drive time is contingent on traffic and weather. Ithaca boasts a comprehensive medical system, including Cayuga Medical Center, offering a wide range of specializations. However, the distance and reliance on personal **transportation** create a barrier for those without reliable vehicles or the ability to drive.

Public **transportation** options in Blodgett Mills are limited. The Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) system, while serving the Ithaca area, has minimal presence in the immediate vicinity of Blodgett Mills. TCAT route 21, which runs between Ithaca and Dryden, offers a potential connection point, but the frequency of service and the distance from Blodgett Mills to a bus stop make this a less practical option for many. ADA accessibility on TCAT buses is available, though the lack of convenient access points in Blodgett Mills itself remains a hurdle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Ithaca area. However, their availability in Blodgett Mills is less consistent. Ride-share services may be more readily available during peak hours or on weekends, but summoning a ride during off-peak times or in emergencies could prove challenging. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to medical appointments, can also pose a financial burden for some residents.

Medical transport services are available to address the needs of individuals requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, ensuring prompt medical attention. Non-emergency medical **transportation** providers, such as CareRide, offer scheduled rides to medical appointments for individuals who may have difficulty driving or using public **transportation**. These services are crucial for ensuring that those with mobility limitations or other health concerns can access necessary healthcare.

The overall health score for Blodgett Mills, NY (ZIP code 13738), is moderately impacted by **transportation** limitations. While the proximity to Ithaca provides access to quality healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public **transportation** and ride-sharing services create challenges. The cost and availability of medical transport services also impact the overall score.

For individuals considering **moving to Blodgett Mills**, understanding these **transportation** dynamics is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their personal **transportation** needs, considering their ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport. The location of medical providers and the frequency of appointments should also be factored into the decision-making process.

The remoteness of Blodgett Mills also presents opportunities for community-based solutions. Initiatives to improve public **transportation** access, such as expanding TCAT service or establishing a local shuttle service, could significantly enhance the health score. Encouraging the use of ride-sharing services through community partnerships or subsidies could also improve **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can help mitigate the impact of **transportation** barriers. Telemedicine consultations and remote monitoring can reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups or follow-up care. Investing in broadband internet infrastructure is crucial to ensure residents can fully utilize telehealth services.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Blodgett Mills itself is limited. Residents typically need to travel to Ithaca or other surrounding communities for primary care, specialist appointments, and hospital services. This underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** options.

The cost of **transportation** also impacts the overall health score. The price of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can add to the financial burden of accessing healthcare. This is especially true for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services in Blodgett Mills is limited, further increasing the need for **transportation** to access these resources. Residents must often travel to Ithaca or other nearby towns to fill prescriptions, purchase medical supplies, or receive other healthcare-related services.

Emergency medical services are available, but response times can be affected by the rural location and the distance to the nearest hospital. The availability of emergency medical transport, such as ambulances, is crucial for ensuring timely access to care in critical situations.

The overall health score for ZIP code 13738 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Ithaca provides access to quality healthcare, the limitations in **transportation** options, the cost of **transportation**, and the lack of local healthcare services present challenges. Addressing these challenges through community-based initiatives, investment in public **transportation**, and the promotion of telehealth services can significantly improve the overall health score and ensure that residents of Blodgett Mills have equitable **healthcare access**. This is especially important for those **moving to Blodgett Mills** and seeking to establish themselves within the community.