13833, Port Crane, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13833, Port Crane, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.36 percent of residents in 13833 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greater Binghamton Health Center with a distance of 6.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Port Crane, NY (ZIP Code 13833)

The picturesque village of Port Crane, nestled within the rolling hills of Broome County, New York, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, the idyllic charm of this community must be balanced against the realities of healthcare access. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 13833, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing medical services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Port Crane, as they directly influence the quality of life and overall well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical facilities. In Port Crane, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The geographic layout of the area necessitates reliance on driving, making the commute to healthcare a significant consideration. The major thoroughfare connecting Port Crane to nearby cities is **New York State Route 7 (NY-7)**, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the valleys. This road provides access to Binghamton, the primary hub for healthcare services in the region.

Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The **United Health Services (UHS) Binghamton General Hospital**, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via NY-7, assuming normal traffic flow. **Wilson Medical Center**, another prominent hospital in Johnson City, is a similar distance, requiring a drive of roughly 20-25 minutes. These estimates highlight the relatively convenient access to acute care for Port Crane residents.

However, travel times can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, increasing commute times and potentially delaying access to critical care. Residents must be prepared for these challenges and consider the availability of alternative transportation options during inclement weather.

Beyond the primary hospitals, access to specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and dermatology, often requires traveling to specific clinics and medical offices. These facilities may be located further afield, potentially increasing drive times to 30 minutes or more. The availability of specialized services within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health score.

Public transportation options in Port Crane are limited. The **Broome County Transit (BCT)** system provides bus service within the county, but the routes serving Port Crane are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. The bus routes that do serve the area, such as Route 13, primarily travel along NY-7, offering a potential alternative for those without personal vehicles. However, the limited frequency and potential for longer travel times make public transit less than ideal for urgent medical needs.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transportation for individuals with disabilities is a critical concern. While BCT strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and paratransit options, the availability of these services in Port Crane may be limited. Residents with mobility impairments or other disabilities may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare via public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Binghamton area, offering another transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services in Port Crane itself can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of transportation. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments may not be a financially sustainable option for all residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. Companies like **Care Ride** and **First Transit** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. While NEMT can be a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or use public transportation, the availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered.

The "Overall Health Score" for Port Crane residents reflects a mixed picture. The relatively short drive times to major hospitals provide good access to acute care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges posed by weather conditions and the availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Port Crane, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those without access to a personal vehicle or who have mobility limitations may face significant challenges in accessing medical services. The availability of family support, the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transportation, and the proximity of specialized care facilities are all crucial factors to consider.

The "Overall Health Score" for Port Crane is therefore moderately positive, but with caveats. The convenience of driving to nearby hospitals is offset by the limitations of public transportation and the potential impact of weather and cost. A proactive approach to healthcare planning, including understanding available transportation options and considering the potential for unexpected delays, is crucial for ensuring optimal health outcomes for residents of ZIP code 13833. The ability to navigate these transportation challenges directly impacts the overall quality of life and the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.