14112, North Evans, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14112, North Evans, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 14112 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Hospital Of Buffalo with a distance of 12.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14112

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 14112, focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access through transportation. The score considers various modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This assessment is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to North Evans, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The overall health score for 14112 is **moderate**, with room for improvement in several key areas. While residents have options, the limitations of each mode of transportation, particularly for those with mobility challenges, present significant hurdles. The geographic isolation of the area, coupled with limited public transit infrastructure, contributes to the challenges.

**Driving to Healthcare Facilities:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 14112 is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on driving to appointments and accessing medical services. The most direct routes to healthcare facilities typically involve navigating the local road network.

Traveling to larger hospitals and specialized care centers often requires venturing beyond the immediate vicinity. The New York State Thruway (I-90) provides a crucial artery for accessing healthcare facilities in Buffalo and surrounding areas. The drive to Buffalo General Hospital, for instance, could take approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Other important roads include US Route 20, which runs east-west, and US Route 5, which runs parallel to Lake Erie. These routes offer access to urgent care facilities, primary care physicians, and smaller medical centers within a reasonable driving distance. However, these roads can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, potentially delaying access to care.

The condition of local roads, including maintenance and winter weather preparedness, significantly impacts travel times and safety. Residents must be prepared for potential delays, especially during inclement weather, which is common in the region.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in 14112 are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) operates bus routes that serve the area, but the frequency and coverage are restricted.

The primary bus route serving 14112 is likely Route 40, which connects to Buffalo and other surrounding areas. However, the schedule may not be conducive to timely healthcare access, especially for appointments scheduled during off-peak hours. The route may not directly serve all medical facilities, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel time.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor in assessing the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities. The NFTA generally adheres to ADA guidelines, ensuring that a portion of their fleet is equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the limited frequency of service and potential for lengthy travel times can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 14112, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a vital role in providing access to care for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services are typically provided by specialized companies or healthcare providers.

The availability and responsiveness of medical transport services are crucial for ensuring that individuals can reach medical facilities in a timely manner. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access and the Impact on Overall Health:**

The availability of reliable transportation is a critical determinant of healthcare access. Individuals who face challenges in getting to medical appointments may delay or forgo necessary care, leading to adverse health outcomes. This can be particularly problematic for those with chronic conditions or requiring regular treatments.

The geographic isolation of 14112, coupled with the limitations of transportation options, can exacerbate these challenges. Residents may experience longer travel times, increased costs, and reduced access to specialized medical services.

**Factors Influencing the Health Score:**

Several factors contribute to the overall health score for healthcare access in 14112. These include the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability and frequency of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the responsiveness of medical transport services.

The presence of ADA-accessible transportation options is a critical consideration, as is the condition of local roads and the impact of weather conditions on travel times. The availability of healthcare facilities within the community, such as primary care physicians and urgent care centers, also plays a significant role.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score for healthcare access in 14112, several measures could be implemented. These include:

* **Enhancing Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of bus routes, particularly to medical facilities, and ensuring the availability of ADA-accessible buses.
* **Promoting Ride-Sharing:** Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates or subsidized transportation for medical appointments.
* **Expanding Medical Transport Services:** Increasing the availability and responsiveness of medical transport services, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Improving Road Infrastructure:** Maintaining and improving the condition of local roads, including snow removal and winter weather preparedness.
* **Encouraging Telehealth:** Promoting the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine follow-ups.
* **Community Outreach:** Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 14112 is moderate, with room for improvement. While residents have access to various transportation options, the limitations of each mode, particularly for those with mobility challenges, present significant barriers. Addressing these challenges through enhanced public transit, expanded ride-sharing programs, improved road infrastructure, and increased access to medical transport services is crucial for ensuring that all residents can receive timely and appropriate medical care. This is especially important for those considering moving to North Evans, as it directly impacts their quality of life and access to essential healthcare services. The ability to easily and affordably access healthcare is a cornerstone of a healthy community.