14478, Keuka Park, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14478, Keuka Park, New York is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.92 percent of residents in 14478 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Soldiers And Sailors Memorial Hospital Of Yates with a distance of 7.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14478 (Keuka Park, NY)

Understanding the ease of **transportation** to healthcare facilities is paramount when assessing the overall health score of a community. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 14478, encompassing the picturesque Keuka Park, New York, and evaluates the accessibility of medical services. For those **moving to Keuka Park**, this write-up will provide a comprehensive overview of the available options, from driving to public transit, and the impact on **healthcare access**.

The geographical reality of Keuka Park dictates a dependence on vehicular **transportation**. The undulating terrain and the relatively sparse population density make walking or cycling to medical appointments impractical for most residents. The most direct route to essential healthcare often involves navigating the scenic, yet sometimes winding, roads of the Finger Lakes region.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Keuka Park is New York State Route 54. This road, which snakes along the western shore of Keuka Lake, provides a crucial link to larger towns like Penn Yan, approximately 10 miles to the north, and Hammondsport, roughly 15 miles to the south. These towns house the majority of the area's medical facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers.

The drive time to Penn Yan, the more populated of the two, typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 54 is generally well-maintained, but during the winter months, snow and ice can significantly impact travel times. Hammondsport, while closer geographically, might take a similar amount of time due to the more winding nature of the roads.

Beyond Route 54, secondary roads like County Route 7 and County Route 11 provide alternative routes, but these are often less direct and may involve navigating narrower, less-traveled lanes. These routes can be useful for avoiding traffic congestion on Route 54, but they also present their own challenges, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

Public transit options in Keuka Park are limited. The Yates County Transit system offers some services, but the routes and schedules are designed to cater to the broader needs of the county, not specifically the healthcare needs of Keuka Park residents. Furthermore, the frequency of service is often limited, and the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities.

The Yates County Transit system does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of frequent service and the potentially lengthy travel times can pose significant challenges for those who rely on public transit for healthcare appointments. Ridership is typically low, and the impact on **healthcare access** is minimal.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The geographical isolation of Keuka Park can make it difficult to secure a ride promptly.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also an option. These services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a more reliable and often more accessible option for those who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. However, these services often require advance booking and may involve additional costs.

The availability of medical transportation services can vary, and the specific providers and their service areas should be researched. This includes understanding the types of vehicles available (e.g., wheelchair-accessible vans), the level of medical assistance provided during transport, and the associated costs.

The impact of these **transportation** options on the overall health score of Keuka Park is significant. The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on those who cannot drive, whether due to age, disability, or lack of a vehicle. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate this challenge.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while generally manageable, can still present obstacles. The time spent traveling to and from appointments can detract from the overall quality of life, particularly for those with chronic conditions or frequent medical needs. The added stress of navigating roads, especially during winter, can also negatively impact health.

For those **moving to Keuka Park**, it is crucial to consider these **transportation** challenges when evaluating the accessibility of healthcare. Researching the locations of medical facilities, understanding the drive times, and assessing the availability of alternative **transportation** options are essential steps.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Keuka Park is thus moderate. While the proximity to Penn Yan and Hammondsport offers access to a range of medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create barriers.

The availability of medical transportation services can mitigate some of these challenges, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered. The overall health score could be improved by enhancing public transit options, increasing the reliability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the availability of medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the ability to access timely and convenient healthcare is a fundamental aspect of a healthy community. For residents of Keuka Park, understanding the **transportation** landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs is essential for maintaining a high quality of life. The health of the community is intrinsically linked to the ease with which its residents can access the care they require.