14477, Kent, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14477, Kent, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.87 percent of residents in 14477 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medina Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14477

The idyllic rural landscape of ZIP Code 14477, encompassing the town of Kent, New York, offers a peaceful existence. However, this tranquility presents a significant challenge: healthcare access. A comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for this area hinges heavily on the ease with which residents can access medical care, factoring in transportation options, drive times, and the availability of services. This assessment considers the practical realities of navigating the region to ensure residents can maintain their well-being.

The foundation of this score lies in the efficiency and availability of transportation. The primary mode of transport in Kent is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Driving is the dominant factor shaping healthcare access. Residents rely on their cars to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The major arteries connecting Kent to healthcare facilities are crucial. Route 104, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides a direct link to nearby cities like Rochester, offering a broader range of medical options.

Driving times, therefore, become paramount. The nearest hospital, Unity Hospital in Greece, New York, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via Route 104. Strong Memorial Hospital, a renowned facility in Rochester, can be reached in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the surrounding towns, offering shorter drive times for less critical needs. However, the concentration of specialized care in Rochester necessitates longer commutes for those requiring advanced treatment. This is a crucial consideration for anyone moving to Kent, particularly those with pre-existing conditions.

Public transportation, unfortunately, presents a significant limitation to healthcare access in 14477. The availability of public transit is limited. The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) operates bus routes in the broader Rochester area. However, these routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Kent. The absence of a robust public transit system leaves residents heavily reliant on personal vehicles. This creates a significant barrier for those without access to a car, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

ADA accessibility on any existing public transit routes is a critical aspect. While the RGRTA aims to provide accessible services, the lack of direct routes to Kent renders this consideration largely moot. The absence of accessible public transport poses a challenge for individuals with mobility impairments, making it difficult for them to reach medical appointments. This underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability in rural areas like Kent can be inconsistent. While these services may be present, wait times can be extended, and fares can be higher compared to urban areas. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable and potentially expensive option for routine medical appointments. Their utility is also dependent on the availability of drivers, which can fluctuate.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patient transport offer another avenue. Companies like Med-Trans Corporation or Air Methods provide specialized medical transportation, including ambulances and non-emergency medical transport. These services are primarily geared towards patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transportation to and from medical facilities. However, these services often come at a higher cost and may require pre-booking, making them less suitable for urgent or spontaneous healthcare needs.

The availability of these services does not equate to ease of access. The cost, wait times, and the need for prior arrangements can present significant challenges. The lack of readily available options, especially during emergencies, contributes to a lower Overall Health Score.

The overall health score for 14477 is also impacted by the availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP code itself. While Kent may have some primary care physicians or general practitioners, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, or neurologists, is likely limited. This necessitates travel to Rochester or other larger cities for specialized care, further increasing the reliance on transportation and extending commute times. The absence of a local pharmacy or urgent care facility would also negatively impact the score.

The geographical isolation of Kent and its limited access to healthcare resources can impact the health outcomes of its residents. Individuals with chronic conditions may struggle to manage their health due to the difficulty of attending regular appointments and accessing specialized care. The lack of convenient access to emergency services can also pose a significant risk in critical situations.

The healthcare infrastructure in the surrounding areas plays a crucial role in shaping the Overall Health Score. The quality and capacity of the hospitals and clinics in Rochester and other nearby towns directly impact the level of care available to Kent residents. Factors like the availability of specialists, the presence of advanced medical technologies, and the responsiveness of emergency services are all vital considerations.

The Overall Health Score is not static; it can fluctuate based on various factors. The addition of new healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, improvements to transportation infrastructure, or the expansion of ride-sharing services could positively impact the score. Conversely, the closure of a local clinic or an increase in traffic congestion could negatively affect it.

For individuals considering moving to Kent, a thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and evaluate the available transportation options. Those with chronic conditions or those who require frequent medical care should carefully consider the implications of the longer commute times and the limited access to specialized services.

The Overall Health Score for 14477, considering the transportation and healthcare access factors, is moderately impacted. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the distance to specialized medical care create significant challenges. The score is further diminished by the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability and the cost of medical transport services. The score is not a reflection of the quality of care available, but rather the ease with which residents can access it.

The Overall Health Score for 14477 highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in transportation options pose a significant barrier to accessing medical care. This is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Kent, and it underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support the well-being of the community.