13820, Oneonta, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13820, Oneonta, New York is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.96 percent of residents in 13820 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13820 (Oneonta, NY)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 13820, encompassing the city of Oneonta, New York, requires a nuanced understanding of healthcare access, a critical component of overall well-being. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape, a pivotal factor determining how easily residents can reach essential medical services. The ability to navigate the physical distance separating individuals from healthcare providers significantly impacts their health outcomes.

Oneonta, nestled in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare access. The city's relatively rural setting necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. Public transportation options, while available, are limited, and ride-sharing services might not always be readily accessible. Considering these factors, the overall health score for 13820, concerning healthcare accessibility, is moderately impacted by transportation limitations.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways influencing healthcare access in 13820 are Interstate 88 (I-88), a major east-west artery, and New York State Route 23 (NY-23), which runs north-south. These routes are crucial for reaching healthcare facilities within and outside Oneonta. Driving times can vary significantly depending on the destination, time of day, and weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

Within Oneonta, Bassett Medical Center, the primary hospital, is conveniently located. Travel times to this facility are generally short, typically under 10 minutes for most residents. However, access to specialized care or facilities outside of Oneonta, such as those in Cooperstown or Albany, requires longer drives. A trip to Cooperstown, home to the renowned Bassett Healthcare Network, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes via NY-28. Traveling to Albany, the state capital, can take upwards of two hours via I-88, depending on traffic.

The condition of these roadways is generally good, but winter weather can pose significant challenges, leading to delays and increased risk. This necessitates careful planning and preparedness, especially for individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The availability of emergency services, including ambulance response times, is also influenced by road conditions and traffic.

**Public Transit Options:**

The public transportation system in Oneonta, operated by the Oneonta Public Transit (OPT), offers a limited but vital service. The OPT provides several fixed-route buses, serving various parts of the city and surrounding areas. While the system aims to improve healthcare access, its limitations must be acknowledged.

The OPT routes are numbered, with specific routes potentially serving areas near healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can pose challenges for individuals with appointments outside of regular operating hours or those requiring urgent care.

The OPT strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing accessible buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. This is a critical aspect of ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents. However, the availability of ADA-compliant services on all routes and at all times should be carefully considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Oneonta, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This can create challenges for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. The reliability of these services should be assessed when considering healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, the cost and availability of these services can vary, and their suitability should be evaluated based on individual needs and financial constraints.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transportation brands may serve the Oneonta area. These include local ambulance services, which provide emergency medical transport, and private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. Researching the specific providers serving 13820, their service areas, and their pricing models is essential for understanding healthcare access options.

**Healthcare Access and the Decision to Move:**

The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Oneonta. The ease of reaching medical providers, the availability of specialized care, and the reliability of transportation options all contribute to the overall quality of life. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those requiring regular medical care should carefully evaluate the transportation landscape and healthcare resources available in 13820.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of 13820, concerning healthcare access, is influenced by a combination of factors. While Bassett Medical Center offers convenient access for many, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services can create challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides an alternative for some, but the overall transportation landscape requires careful consideration.

For those contemplating moving to Oneonta, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the available transportation options is essential. Understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services will help individuals make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The overall health score for 13820, concerning healthcare access, is moderately impacted by transportation limitations, but it can be improved by continued investment in public transportation, the promotion of ride-sharing, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation services.