14462, Groveland, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14462, Groveland, New York is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.55 percent of residents in 14462 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nicholas H Noyes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.35 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14462 (Groveland, NY)

The overall health score for residents of Groveland, New York (ZIP Code 14462), is significantly impacted by the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access in this rural community. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Groveland, ensuring they can adequately meet their healthcare needs.

The primary challenge in 14462 is its rural location. Groveland, nestled in Livingston County, is characterized by sprawling landscapes, which inherently complicates transportation. This remoteness directly affects healthcare access, making it more time-consuming and potentially more expensive to reach medical facilities. The availability of various transportation options, or the lack thereof, significantly influences the overall health score of residents.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The most common mode of transportation in Groveland is personal vehicles. Residents rely heavily on their cars to navigate the area and reach healthcare providers. The main thoroughfares impacting healthcare access are New York State Route 39 and New York State Route 36. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winter months.

The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in the surrounding towns and cities. For instance, reaching Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville typically involves a drive of approximately 15 to 20 minutes via NY-36. This is the closest full-service hospital. Driving to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, a major regional medical center, requires a journey of about an hour, primarily using Interstate 390. This longer commute adds significant time and potential stress, impacting the overall healthcare experience.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians may be found in nearby towns like Mount Morris, which is accessible via NY-36 and NY-408, with a drive time of roughly 15 to 20 minutes. These options offer more immediate care but may not provide the specialized services available at larger hospitals. The condition of local roads, including county routes, can also affect drive times, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Groveland is extremely limited. Livingston County offers a demand-response transit service, the Livingston Area Transportation Service (LATS). However, this service is primarily designed for essential trips and is not a frequent or readily available option for spontaneous healthcare visits. LATS requires advance booking, making it less suitable for urgent medical needs.

The routes and schedules of LATS are subject to change, and information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is available through the Livingston County government website. The lack of fixed-route public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own vehicles or cannot drive. This impacts the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Rochester area but may have limited or no presence in Groveland itself. The availability of these services is often contingent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments is therefore not a dependable solution for most residents.

Medical transport services are a crucial component of healthcare access for those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require pre-booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria. The cost of medical transport can be a significant financial burden, further impacting healthcare access.

**Medical Transport Brands and Availability:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized NEMT providers. These companies offer a range of services, from basic transportation to more complex medical assistance during transit. Availability and pricing vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient. Researching and pre-arranging medical transport is essential for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The transportation challenges in Groveland directly affect the overall health score of its residents. Limited access to healthcare providers, longer drive times, and the lack of reliable public transit create barriers to timely medical care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative services, and poorer health outcomes.

The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The lack of readily available ride-sharing and the limited scope of public transit further exacerbate these challenges. These factors contribute to a lower overall health score for the community.

**The Impact on Moving to Groveland:**

For individuals considering moving to Groveland, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is paramount. Understanding the transportation landscape, including drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the potential costs and logistical challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

Those with chronic health conditions or specific medical needs should carefully evaluate whether Groveland's healthcare infrastructure meets their requirements. Researching local healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage, and exploring transportation options are essential steps in making an informed decision about moving to the area.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in Groveland requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transit, expanding ride-sharing availability, and promoting medical transport services are crucial steps. Community initiatives that support carpooling or volunteer driver programs can also help.

Raising awareness about available healthcare resources, including telehealth options, can improve access for residents. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential to address the transportation challenges and enhance the overall health score of Groveland residents.