14422, Byron, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14422, Byron, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.33 percent of residents in 14422 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nicholas H Noyes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 40.51 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Byron, NY (ZIP Code 14422)

Understanding healthcare access is paramount when considering a move, especially to a rural area like Byron, New York (ZIP Code 14422). This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of healthcare facilities. It considers the practical realities of accessing care, moving beyond simple facility counts to examine the nuances of getting there. This information is crucial for individuals and families prioritizing healthcare access when evaluating Byron as a potential home.

The "Overall Health Score" for Byron reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the community benefits from proximity to larger urban centers, the reliance on personal **transportation** and the limitations of public transit significantly impact the score. The score considers factors such as the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, urgent care facilities, pharmacies, and mental health services within a reasonable travel distance. It weighs these against the available **transportation** options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.

The primary challenge for Byron residents is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town is situated in a largely agricultural region, and the existing infrastructure favors car travel. The major thoroughfares impacting **healthcare access** are Route 237, Route 5, and the New York State Thruway (I-90). Route 237 provides north-south access, while Route 5 offers east-west connectivity. The Thruway, while offering high-speed travel, requires tolls and may not always be the most direct route depending on the destination.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly. For primary care, residents can find options in nearby Batavia, a roughly 15-20 minute drive via Route 5 or Route 237. Urgent care facilities are also available in Batavia, offering convenient access for non-emergency medical needs. However, accessing specialist care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Rochester, approximately 45-60 minutes away, depending on traffic and the specific location. This longer travel time can be a significant barrier for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The availability of public **transportation** is limited in Byron. The Genesee Transportation Council (GTC) operates a county-wide bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings. The primary route serving Byron is the Batavia-based route, which offers limited service to Batavia and surrounding areas. While the GTC strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the infrequency of the routes and the limited coverage area make it an unreliable option for many residents seeking **healthcare access**. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the overall score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. The availability of drivers may be limited, and the cost of a ride to Rochester for a specialist appointment can be substantial. While ride-sharing offers a potential alternative to personal vehicles, it's not a guaranteed solution for reliable **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services are available for individuals requiring assistance with **transportation** to medical appointments. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, can be a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public **transportation**. However, availability can be limited, and pre-booking is often required. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

The nearest hospital, United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia, offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and various specialist consultations. While the drive time to this hospital is relatively short, accessing specialized care, such as cardiac or neurological services, may require travel to Rochester, increasing travel time and complexity. The availability of pharmacies within Byron is limited, with residents typically relying on pharmacies in Batavia or Rochester to fill prescriptions.

Mental health services are available in the region, but access can be challenging. While primary care physicians often provide initial mental health screenings, accessing specialized mental health professionals may require travel to Batavia or Rochester. The limited availability of mental health services in Byron itself can be a significant concern for residents.

For individuals **moving to Byron**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is critical. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of **healthcare access**. Those with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available **transportation** options and the potential for increased travel time and costs.

The "Overall Health Score" for Byron, NY (14422) is moderately positive, with a significant caveat. While the proximity to Batavia offers reasonable access to primary care and urgent care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the longer travel times to Rochester for specialist care and advanced medical services lower the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport provides some support, but the overall accessibility score is reduced due to the limited availability of public transit.

The score highlights the importance of individual planning. Residents should research healthcare providers in advance, consider the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services, and factor in potential travel times when scheduling appointments. Careful consideration of **healthcare access** is essential for anyone **moving to Byron**, ensuring they can meet their medical needs effectively.