14061, Farnham, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14061, Farnham, New York is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.95 percent of residents in 14061 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brooks-Tlc Hospital System, Inc with a distance of 15.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14061

The picturesque landscape of Farnham, New York, nestled within ZIP code 14061, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing the overall health of a community requires examining more than just scenic beauty. A crucial element is the ease with which residents can access necessary healthcare services. This write-up provides an 'Overall Health Score' for 14061, focusing on the transportation infrastructure that connects residents to medical care, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transportation services. It aims to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility, a vital factor for anyone considering moving to Farnham. Understanding these elements is paramount to ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life within this charming community.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 14061 is the personal vehicle. The area’s road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the time and distance required to reach various medical facilities. Residents primarily utilize Route 5, a major east-west thoroughfare, to travel to neighboring towns and cities. Driving east on Route 5 provides access to healthcare facilities in Dunkirk and Fredonia, while heading west leads towards facilities in Silver Creek and the city of Buffalo.

Travel times vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. A trip to Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk, a common destination for emergency care and specialized services, typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes. Fredonia, with its smaller clinics and physician offices, is usually a 15 to 20-minute drive. Heading west, the journey to the larger hospitals and specialist practices in Buffalo can be significantly longer, often exceeding an hour, particularly during peak traffic hours.

Other roads, such as Route 20 and various county roads, provide alternative routes, but they often involve winding roads and may add to travel time. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can impact accessibility, potentially delaying or hindering travel to healthcare appointments. The availability of convenient and well-maintained roads is critical for those seeking regular medical attention, especially for those with chronic conditions.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within 14061 are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the Chautauqua Area Regional Transit System (CARTS). However, CARTS service in this area is primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service is especially important for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

CARTS offers routes that may connect to healthcare facilities in Dunkirk, Fredonia, and potentially other towns. However, the frequency of these routes and the need for advance booking can pose challenges. The service is designed to be ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited schedule and the need for pre-planning require those who are moving to Farnham to consider the impact on their healthcare access.

The availability of public transit is especially crucial for elderly residents, those with disabilities, and individuals with limited financial resources. The current limitations of public transit in 14061 suggest that residents may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare without a personal vehicle or the ability to arrange alternative transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence in 14061 may be less consistent than in larger urban areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be problematic due to potential wait times, higher costs, and the uncertainty of availability, particularly for urgent medical needs.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more reliable option for those requiring assistance. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance with medical appointments. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often require pre-booking and can involve varying costs.

The availability of these services is a critical factor in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations. However, their availability and cost must be considered when evaluating the overall health score for 14061.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the 'Overall Health Score' for commute to healthcare in 14061 is moderate. While the area offers a peaceful and attractive living environment, the transportation infrastructure presents some limitations.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to larger hospitals in Buffalo can be significant, and the availability of transportation for those without personal vehicles is restricted.

The presence of specialized medical transportation services provides a valuable resource for some residents, but their availability and cost must be factored in. The overall score suggests that residents of 14061 need to carefully consider their transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare services.

For individuals considering moving to Farnham, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Understanding the potential challenges and planning for alternative solutions, such as establishing relationships with local medical providers, utilizing available transportation services, or relying on family and friends for assistance, can help mitigate the impact of these limitations.

The community could benefit from increased public transit options, improved road infrastructure, and greater availability of ride-sharing services. These improvements would significantly enhance healthcare access and contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community. Ultimately, the overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to connect residents with the care they need, and in 14061, this connection requires careful consideration and proactive planning.