13775, Franklin, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13775, Franklin, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.52 percent of residents in 13775 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13775

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 13775 (Franklin, NY), focusing on transportation options available for reaching medical facilities. We’ll delve into the realities of navigating the roads, utilizing public transit, and exploring alternative transportation solutions, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access. For those considering **moving to Franklin**, this analysis offers critical insights into the practicalities of maintaining their well-being.

The geographical reality of Franklin, nestled in the Catskill Mountains, presents a unique challenge. The area's rural nature, characterized by rolling hills and winding roads, significantly impacts **transportation** options and, consequently, **healthcare access**. While the peace and tranquility of the region are undeniable, the distance to medical facilities and the limitations of available transportation create a complex landscape for residents seeking timely and reliable care.

Driving is the most prevalent mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 13775. The primary routes are State Route 357, a vital artery connecting Franklin to nearby towns, and County Route 14, which provides access to the north. These roads, while scenic, can be challenging during inclement weather, particularly winter months. The drive time to the nearest hospital, Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, NY, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This distance alone presents a significant barrier, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The secondary option for healthcare is Fox Hospital in Oneonta, NY. Accessing Fox Hospital is generally a 40-minute drive via State Route 28. This route, while more direct, is often subject to heavier traffic, especially during peak hours. Furthermore, both routes involve navigating rural roads with limited shoulders and potential hazards, increasing the risk of accidents and delays.

Public transit options in 13775 are limited. Delaware County Public Transit (DCPT) offers bus services, but their routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting larger towns and cities. There is no direct DCPT route to either Bassett Medical Center or Fox Hospital from Franklin. Residents would need to transfer multiple times, significantly increasing travel time and adding complexity, particularly for those with mobility issues or medical appointments. The lack of readily available public transportation highlights a significant disadvantage for residents without personal vehicles.

DCPT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers often make these features impractical for those requiring regular medical appointments. The absence of robust public transportation underscores the critical need for alternative solutions to improve **healthcare access** for all residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is sporadic and availability is not guaranteed, especially in rural areas like Franklin. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore risky, as delays or cancellations can disrupt schedules and potentially impact health outcomes. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for many residents, further exacerbating the challenges of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Rural Transportation Services and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and ensuring a comfortable journey to medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly during peak hours or for urgent needs. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant financial burden, especially for those with multiple appointments or limited financial resources.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 13775 is significantly impacted by the challenges of **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to timely and reliable healthcare. The long drive times to medical facilities, coupled with the potential for adverse weather conditions, further compound these challenges.

The lack of readily available transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles. These individuals may face significant difficulties in attending regular medical appointments, accessing preventative care, and managing chronic conditions. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer health outcomes, and increased healthcare costs.

For those considering **moving to Franklin**, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. The availability of reliable transportation should be a primary consideration. Exploring options such as carpooling, coordinating with neighbors, or utilizing medical transportation services is essential to ensure consistent access to healthcare.

Improving the overall health score in 13775 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in expanded public transit services, including more frequent routes and direct connections to medical facilities, is crucial. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to ensure consistent availability and potentially subsidizing transportation costs for low-income residents could also significantly improve **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding access to remote patient monitoring can help mitigate the challenges of distance and **transportation**. Encouraging the development of local healthcare clinics and mobile medical units can bring healthcare services closer to residents, reducing the need for long-distance travel.

The overall health score for 13775 is a reflection of the community's ability to overcome geographical challenges and provide equitable access to healthcare. By addressing the limitations of **transportation** and implementing innovative solutions, the community can improve the health and well-being of all its residents. The future of healthcare in Franklin hinges on a commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their mobility or financial situation, can access the care they need, when they need it.