14480, Lakeville, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14480, Lakeville, New York is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.38 percent of residents in 14480 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nicholas H Noyes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 19.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14480 (Lakeville, NY)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Lakeville, NY (ZIP code 14480), a picturesque community nestled in the Finger Lakes region, to determine its "Overall Health Score" concerning healthcare accessibility. We will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Lakeville.

Lakeville's location, while offering natural beauty, presents challenges to healthcare access. The community is relatively rural, with a population density that impacts the availability of services. This assessment will weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the transportation options available, ultimately offering an informed perspective on the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode**

For most Lakeville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The proximity of medical services, and the speed with which they can be reached, is a critical factor in the overall health score.

The most immediate healthcare options are located in the nearby town of Geneseo. Driving to the Noyes Memorial Hospital in Geneseo, a vital healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 20A. This short commute is a significant advantage for Lakeville residents, ensuring relatively quick access to emergency care and routine medical appointments.

For specialized care, residents often travel to larger regional centers. Rochester, a city with a wide array of hospitals and specialists, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive. This journey primarily involves using Interstate 390 North. The ease of access to I-390 is a positive factor, but the distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays.

Further afield, Syracuse, offering even more specialized medical services, is a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily via I-90 East. This longer travel time underscores the importance of considering the urgency of healthcare needs and the availability of local options.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can cause delays and potentially make travel hazardous. Regular road maintenance and winter preparedness are crucial for ensuring continued healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in Lakeville are limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area. This is a significant factor impacting the overall health score, as it restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The Livingston Area Transportation Service (LATS) provides public transit within Livingston County, including Lakeville. However, the service operates on a demand-response basis, requiring advance booking. This can make it challenging to access healthcare appointments on short notice.

LATS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. This is a crucial element of the public transit system, providing an essential service for those who would otherwise struggle to access healthcare.

The routes and schedules of LATS are subject to change, and it is essential for residents to contact the service directly for the most up-to-date information. The reliability and frequency of the service significantly impact the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lakeville area, but their availability may be limited compared to larger urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares, impacting the affordability and convenience of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport.

The availability and cost of medical transport services vary, and it is essential for residents to research and compare different providers. This is a crucial element of the healthcare access picture, especially for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Lakeville, NY (14480) is moderately positive. The proximity to Noyes Memorial Hospital in Geneseo is a significant advantage, offering quick access to essential medical care. The availability of I-390 provides relatively easy access to Rochester's more specialized services.

However, the limited public transportation options and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles can create barriers for certain segments of the population. The distance to larger medical centers, and the potential for weather-related delays, also need to be considered.

For those considering moving to Lakeville, it is essential to assess their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. The availability of LATS, the potential for ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transport services offer supplemental options.

The overall health score is enhanced by the presence of local healthcare providers, but it is tempered by the limitations of the transportation infrastructure. The community’s continued investment in transportation options, and the promotion of accessible healthcare services, will be critical in maintaining and improving the overall health score for Lakeville residents.