13864, Willseyville, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13864, Willseyville, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.16 percent of residents in 13864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cayuga Medical Center At Ithaca with a distance of 13.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13864 (Willseyville, NY)

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 13864, focusing on their ability to access healthcare services. This crucial element of well-being is intricately linked to transportation options, which we will explore in detail. The assessment considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those living in and considering **moving to Willseyville**.

The rural landscape of Willseyville, nestled within the Finger Lakes region of New York, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The overall health score is influenced by the distance to medical facilities, the quality of transportation infrastructure, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions. This score reflects the ease or difficulty residents face when needing medical attention, impacting their health outcomes and quality of life.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of 13864, personal vehicles are often the primary mode of transportation to healthcare. The drive times to various medical facilities are a critical component of the overall health score. The most direct route to the nearest hospital, Guthrie Cortland Medical Center, involves traveling on NY-38 North. This journey, approximately 20 miles, can take around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The winding roads and rural nature of the route can extend travel times, particularly during inclement weather.

Another frequently accessed medical facility is the Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca. This trip, roughly 30 miles, typically involves taking NY-34 South. The drive, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour, can be affected by traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The condition of these roads, including NY-38 and NY-34, and their maintenance, directly impacts the safety and efficiency of travel, influencing the overall health score.

Access to specialized care often necessitates longer drives. For instance, reaching the Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, a regional medical center, involves a drive of approximately 60 miles via NY-90 and I-81 South. This journey can take over an hour, placing a significant burden on residents needing specialized treatments. The availability of reliable transportation is critical for those with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 13864 are extremely limited, impacting the overall health score negatively. The Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) system, serving the Ithaca area, offers some routes that may provide access to healthcare facilities, but their reach into Willseyville is minimal. These routes, primarily numbered 10 and 20, do not directly service the ZIP code.

Even for those able to access TCAT routes, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. ADA accessibility, though mandated for public transit, may not always be fully realized due to the terrain and infrastructure limitations in rural areas. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly hinders healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability in rural areas like Willseyville is often inconsistent. The overall health score is impacted by the reliability of these services. Wait times can be extended, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can make these services unaffordable for some residents.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, provide a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Brands like AMR (American Medical Response) and Rural/Metro Medical Services offer ambulance and non-emergency medical transport. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, making them less accessible for urgent medical needs. The availability and affordability of these services significantly influence the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall health score for 13864 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Cortland and Ithaca provides some access, the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to specialized care facilities create challenges. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further impact the overall health score.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP code. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities reduces the need for long-distance travel. The lack of these resources necessitates longer commutes, increasing the burden on residents and potentially delaying access to timely medical care.

**Conclusion: Considerations for Moving to Willseyville**

For individuals considering **moving to Willseyville**, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. While the area offers a tranquil rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options pose a significant challenge. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles, and those without access to a car may face significant barriers in accessing medical care.

The overall health score for 13864 is moderate, reflecting a mixed picture. While the drive times to basic medical facilities are reasonable, the limited public transit, the potential for long drives to specialized care, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors and plan accordingly, ensuring they have reliable transportation options to meet their healthcare needs. This assessment provides a critical framework for understanding the healthcare accessibility landscape and its implications for the well-being of Willseyville residents.