14416, Bergen, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14416, Bergen, New York is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.66 percent of residents in 14416 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is F F Thompson Hospital with a distance of 37.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14416

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of Bergen, New York (ZIP Code 14416), focusing on the critical aspect of **healthcare access** via various **transportation** methods. Understanding the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to evaluating their overall well-being. This write-up considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Bergen** and its surrounding areas.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on readily available medical care. Residents of 14416, a primarily rural area, face unique challenges in accessing healthcare. The geographic spread of services and the limited public transportation options necessitate a careful evaluation of the commute to healthcare facilities. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of these challenges and opportunities.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Bergen is personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfares influencing drive times are Route 19, Route 262, and the I-490. The drive to larger healthcare hubs like Rochester, approximately 25 miles east, presents a significant time commitment.

Traveling east on I-490, expect a drive time of approximately 35-45 minutes to reach major hospitals like Strong Memorial Hospital or Rochester General Hospital. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact these times. Route 19 provides a more direct, albeit slower, route to these facilities, typically taking around 45-60 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic.

Heading south on Route 19 offers access to smaller medical facilities in towns like Batavia, approximately 15 miles away. The drive time to these facilities is typically shorter, ranging from 20-30 minutes. However, the scope of services offered at these facilities may be limited compared to the larger hospitals in Rochester.

Route 262 provides access to local medical practices and clinics within Bergen and the immediate surrounding areas. Drive times to these facilities are generally short, typically under 15 minutes. However, the availability of specialized care may necessitate travel to Rochester or Batavia.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options in 14416 are limited. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This limitation disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) does not have regular routes servicing Bergen directly. Limited demand and the rural nature of the area make establishing a robust public transit system challenging. However, individuals may be able to utilize a combination of services to reach healthcare. This might involve a ride-sharing service or a personal vehicle to a nearby town with RGRTA bus routes, then transferring to a bus.

ADA-compliant features on any available RGRTA buses would be essential for ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA compliance details would need to be verified directly with RGRTA. The absence of reliable public transit significantly impacts the overall health score for residents of 14416.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Rochester area and may provide a viable transportation option for healthcare access. However, the availability of these services in the more rural areas of 14416 can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The distance to Rochester and the associated fares can quickly become a significant expense.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals with specific medical needs. These services are typically reserved for those who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using other forms of transportation. The availability and cost of these services vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for residents of 14416, concerning healthcare access, is moderate. While the availability of local clinics and practices provides convenient access for some, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges. The drive times to larger hospitals and specialized care facilities in Rochester are substantial, potentially impacting the timeliness of medical care.

The lack of reliable public transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport further influence the overall health score.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving healthcare access in 14416 requires a multi-faceted approach. Exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit options, even on a limited basis, could significantly improve accessibility. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could offer discounted transportation options for patients.

Promoting telehealth services, such as virtual appointments and remote monitoring, could reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine care. Educating residents about available transportation resources and assisting with transportation coordination can also improve healthcare access.

Investing in local healthcare infrastructure, such as expanding the services offered at local clinics, can reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care. These improvements would contribute to a higher overall health score for residents of 14416 and enhance the quality of life for those considering **moving to Bergen**.

**Conclusion:**

The health score for healthcare access in 14416 reflects the challenges inherent in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the distance to major healthcare facilities present barriers to timely and convenient medical care. While local clinics provide accessible options, the need for specialized care often necessitates longer travel times. Addressing these challenges through expanded transportation options, telehealth initiatives, and local healthcare infrastructure improvements is crucial to enhancing the overall health score and ensuring the well-being of residents in Bergen.