13744, Castle Creek, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13744, Castle Creek, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.41 percent of residents in 13744 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greater Binghamton Health Center with a distance of 9.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13744

Welcome to Castle Creek, New York, ZIP code 13744. This assessment provides an “Overall Health Score” based on the accessibility of healthcare services, specifically focusing on transportation options. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to gauging the overall health and well-being of a community. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Castle Creek.

The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive evaluation, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of the available transportation infrastructure. Factors considered include the proximity of healthcare providers, the efficiency of transportation methods, and the availability of services catering to individuals with disabilities. The aim is to equip potential residents with informed insights into the practicalities of accessing healthcare in this region.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Castle Creek, nestled in the heart of Broome County, presents a landscape where personal vehicles often reign supreme. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the major roadways that connect the community to neighboring towns and cities. Route 11, a crucial north-south thoroughfare, provides direct access to Binghamton, a major healthcare hub.

Traveling south on Route 11, residents can reach UHS Binghamton General Hospital in approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive offers relatively straightforward access, though rush hour can introduce delays. Further south, the drive to Lourdes Hospital typically takes around 30-35 minutes.

Route 79, another vital road, offers an alternative route towards the west, connecting Castle Creek to the city of Ithaca. This route is particularly important for accessing specialized medical services and Cornell University's healthcare facilities. The drive to Ithaca can take approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic.

Local roads like Castle Creek Road and Upper Castle Creek Road provide access to nearby primary care physicians and urgent care clinics. These roads, while offering convenience, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during winter months, potentially impacting travel times.

**Public Transit Landscape:**

Public transportation options within and around Castle Creek are limited. Broome County Transit (BCT) operates a bus system that serves the greater Binghamton area, but its routes and frequency are not extensive in Castle Creek itself. Residents often need to drive to a designated bus stop to access the public transit network.

The BCT system does offer some routes that connect to healthcare facilities in Binghamton, including hospitals and clinics. However, these routes may have limited schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a key feature, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. Information regarding specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA features can be found on the Broome County Transit website.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of understanding the limitations of public transit for healthcare access. While BCT provides a valuable service, it might not be a practical option for all residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited bus access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Binghamton area and can be utilized for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services in Castle Creek and the surrounding areas can vary, and wait times might be longer compared to urban areas.

Medical transportation services are also available, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from healthcare appointments. These services often cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves or who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including First Transit and Senior Transportation.

These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options. They are a crucial resource for individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or those recovering from medical procedures. The availability and cost of these services are essential considerations for those seeking to move to Castle Creek and require regular medical care.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Castle Creek is moderate. While the community benefits from proximity to Binghamton and its healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges.

The drive times to healthcare providers are generally reasonable, but traffic and weather conditions can impact travel. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides alternative solutions, but their availability and cost need to be considered.

The limited public transit infrastructure poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car or who cannot drive. This can impact access to routine medical appointments, specialist consultations, and emergency care.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

For those considering moving to Castle Creek, a careful assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare services.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides a safety net, but their cost and availability should be factored into the decision-making process. Exploring the possibility of carpooling or utilizing volunteer driver programs can also be beneficial.

Castle Creek offers a tranquil and scenic living environment, but it is important to acknowledge the transportation challenges that can impact healthcare access. Understanding the available options and planning accordingly is essential for ensuring access to quality medical care and maintaining overall well-being. The community's health score reflects the need for continued efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations. The drive times, limited public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services all play a crucial role in determining the overall health score of Castle Creek.