13751, Davenport Center, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13751, Davenport Center, New York is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13751 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13751 (Davenport Center, NY)

Nestled in the verdant embrace of the Catskill Mountains, Davenport Center, New York, offers a tranquil existence. However, the bucolic charm of ZIP code 13751 masks a crucial consideration for potential residents: healthcare access. This report delves into the intricacies of transportation options available to residents seeking medical care, evaluating the overall health score based on commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Davenport Center, ensuring their healthcare needs are met effectively.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Davenport Center is the reliance on personal vehicles. The rural nature of the area dictates that driving is the dominant mode of transportation. Residents typically utilize **New York State Route 23** and **New York State Route 8** to reach healthcare facilities. The drive to the nearest hospital, Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, a regional hub, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, contingent on traffic and weather conditions. This drive necessitates navigating winding mountain roads, which can pose challenges during inclement weather, potentially impacting the overall health score.

Further impacting the health score is the absence of readily available public transportation. Delaware County, where Davenport Center is located, has limited public transit infrastructure. There are no direct bus routes or rail lines servicing the immediate area. This absence significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own vehicles, the elderly, or those with disabilities. This limitation contributes negatively to the overall health score, emphasizing the need for alternative transportation solutions.

While public transit is scarce, the Delaware County Office for the Aging offers some limited transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services require advance booking and may be restricted to specific destinations, such as medical appointments. However, these options are not a comprehensive solution and are subject to availability and eligibility criteria. This partial provision of transportation services does offer a slight improvement to the overall health score, but it remains insufficient to overcome the limitations of the region's transportation infrastructure.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in more urban areas. Availability is often dependent on driver proximity and demand. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies, can be challenging, further impacting the overall health score. The reliance on ride-sharing, while offering a potential alternative, is not a dependable solution for consistent healthcare access in Davenport Center.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in the area. These services, often provided by private companies, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, they can be costly, and their availability may be limited, especially for non-emergency appointments. The cost factor and potential limitations of medical transportation services add another layer of complexity to the overall health score, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Davenport Center, ZIP code 13751, is moderate. The primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles, which provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities, particularly for those living near major roads. However, the lack of robust public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs and limitations of medical transportation services significantly impact the overall health score. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while not excessively long, are a consideration, especially for emergency situations.

For those considering moving to Davenport Center, the ability to drive and maintain a vehicle is crucial for healthcare access. The absence of reliable public transit and the limitations of alternative transportation options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles. This factor is particularly important for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who may not be able to drive.

The overall health score is also influenced by the geographical layout of the area. The rural nature of Davenport Center and the surrounding region means that healthcare facilities are often located at a distance, requiring travel on winding roads. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can further impact travel times and accessibility, potentially affecting the overall health score.

The overall health score can be improved by several factors. Increased investment in public transportation, including the expansion of bus routes or the introduction of demand-responsive transit services, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and transportation services could also improve the availability and affordability of medical transportation. Furthermore, the promotion of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine appointments.

In conclusion, while Davenport Center offers a peaceful and scenic environment, potential residents must carefully consider the implications of its transportation infrastructure for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services contribute to a moderate overall health score. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Davenport Center, ensuring their healthcare needs can be met effectively and efficiently. The overall health score underscores the importance of proactive planning and careful consideration of transportation needs when choosing to reside in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.