14481, Leicester, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14481, Leicester, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.10 percent of residents in 14481 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 12.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14481

The picturesque village of Leicester, nestled in the heart of New York's Genesee Valley, offers a tranquil lifestyle. But beneath the surface of rolling hills and historic charm lies a critical consideration for prospective residents: access to healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 14481, evaluating its impact on overall health, and providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score." We'll explore the realities of commuting to healthcare appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This analysis aims to empower individuals considering moving to Leicester with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a composite evaluation, factoring in the ease, efficiency, and accessibility of reaching essential medical services. It considers the availability of various transportation modes, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the presence of any barriers that might hinder access. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for healthcare access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

The primary mode of transportation in Leicester, like many rural communities, is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare providers are significantly influenced by the location of those providers and the road network. Residents in 14481 typically rely on New York State Route 36, a north-south thoroughfare, and County Route 49, which traverses the village east to west. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to seasonal weather conditions, especially during winter months.

The nearest hospitals are located in nearby cities. Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive via Interstate 390 North. This route, while primarily highway, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours. The drive involves navigating a series of on- and off-ramps, and the potential for accidents necessitates careful attention.

Alternatively, residents can access Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville, about a 20-25 minute drive south via Route 36. This option provides a closer, albeit smaller, healthcare facility. The route is less congested than the I-390 corridor, but the roads are primarily two-lane, which can limit passing opportunities.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) does not directly serve Leicester with fixed-route bus service. This represents a significant challenge to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on other transportation solutions, potentially increasing travel time and cost.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rochester area and, to a lesser extent, in the surrounding rural communities. However, their availability and affordability in Leicester can be inconsistent. The cost of a ride-share to Rochester can be substantial, particularly during peak demand periods or for longer distances. The reliability of ride-share services is also a concern, especially for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. These services, such as LifeLine Ambulance and Mercy Flight, provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments and for those with mobility limitations. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs. They are an essential resource for those who cannot utilize other modes of transportation.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 14481 is moderately impacted by the challenges in transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access for some residents. The drive times to hospitals and the potential for delays further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Leicester, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. The availability of a personal vehicle is crucial for navigating the transportation landscape. Those without a car will face significant challenges in accessing medical appointments.

The absence of GRTA bus service is a critical factor. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This deficiency underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

The availability of ride-share services, while offering a potential solution, is inconsistent and can be costly. Medical transportation services provide a valuable resource for those with specific needs, but they are not a universal solution.

The "Overall Health Score" is also influenced by the distance to healthcare facilities. The drive times to hospitals in Rochester and Dansville, while manageable, can be time-consuming, particularly for frequent appointments. The potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions further complicates the situation.

The overall assessment reveals a complex picture. While Leicester offers a desirable quality of life, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers.

The "Overall Health Score" for 14481 is affected by the lack of readily available public transit, the dependence on personal vehicles, and the potential for delays due to traffic and weather. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, can be time-consuming.

The availability of medical transportation services and the potential for ride-sharing services offer some solutions, but they are not universally accessible or affordable. For individuals considering moving to Leicester, careful consideration of these factors is essential.

In conclusion, while Leicester offers a tranquil setting, prospective residents must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for a personal vehicle, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with accessing medical services. Individuals without a personal vehicle will face significant hurdles in accessing healthcare. The availability of medical transportation services and ride-sharing services offers alternative solutions, but their reliability and affordability are crucial considerations. This assessment provides a foundation for informed decision-making, ensuring that individuals moving to Leicester are fully aware of the transportation realities and their impact on their overall health.