14526, Penfield, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14526, Penfield, New York is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.85 percent of residents in 14526 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newark-Wayne Community Hospital with a distance of 18.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14526 (Penfield, NY)

Considering a move to Penfield, New York (ZIP Code 14526)? Beyond the charming suburban landscape and excellent schools, a crucial factor in your decision should be healthcare access. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare facilities within and surrounding this community. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture of your ability to reach essential medical care.

Penfield, nestled in Monroe County, boasts a generally healthy population. However, the proximity and accessibility of healthcare services are paramount to maintaining that health. This analysis considers the various transportation modalities available to residents, evaluating their efficiency, convenience, and suitability for different medical needs. We'll delve into the realities of navigating the roads, utilizing public transportation, and leveraging ride-sharing and medical transport services to understand the true "Overall Health Score" for this community.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Penfield's strategic location offers relatively convenient access to various healthcare providers. The primary thoroughfare, **Empire Boulevard (Route 404)**, runs east-west, providing a direct link to Rochester and its numerous hospitals and medical centers. Travel times, of course, fluctuate depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours. Generally, a drive to the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a major regional healthcare hub, averages between 20-30 minutes, depending on the specific location within Penfield and traffic conditions.

Another crucial artery is **Penfield Road (Route 250)**, which intersects with Empire Boulevard and provides north-south access. This road is essential for reaching local medical offices and urgent care facilities. Expect shorter drive times to these locations, typically under 15 minutes. **Panorama Trail**, while primarily residential, offers alternative routes, particularly to facilities located further east.

The **New York State Thruway (I-90)**, though not directly within Penfield, is easily accessible via the **I-590** connector. This provides a faster route to hospitals located further west, such as Strong Memorial Hospital, but adds travel time and potential tolls. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times. Therefore, residents should be prepared for potential delays due to snow and ice.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

The Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides public transportation within Monroe County. However, the availability of bus routes in Penfield is limited, and their impact on healthcare access is somewhat constrained. Route 28, the primary bus route serving Penfield, runs along Empire Boulevard, offering a connection to downtown Rochester and various medical facilities.

Unfortunately, the frequency of Route 28 is often insufficient, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially creating significant wait times. Furthermore, the route does not directly serve many of the smaller medical offices and clinics located within Penfield. While RTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and priority seating, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times make public transportation a less-than-ideal option for many residents, especially those with mobility issues or urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Penfield, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare appointments, eliminating the stress of parking and navigating unfamiliar routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances.

Several medical transport services also operate in the area, specifically designed to transport patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers. While these services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with specific needs, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation. Popular brands include Lifetime Assistance and Ambulnz.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors above, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Penfield (14526) is moderately favorable. The primary strengths lie in the relatively short drive times to major healthcare facilities, particularly when utilizing the efficient road network. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative to driving, and medical transport services cater to those with specific needs.

However, the limitations of public transportation significantly impact the overall score. The infrequent bus routes and long travel times make it a less-than-viable option for many residents. The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing can also pose challenges for individuals without access to a car or those facing financial constraints.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For those considering moving to Penfield, it's crucial to assess your individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences. If you rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations, carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare facilities using the available bus routes or medical transport services.

If you plan to drive, familiarize yourself with the road network and potential traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to your potential residence and factor in travel times when planning appointments.

Finally, explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport options to determine their suitability for your specific needs. By understanding the strengths and limitations of the transportation infrastructure, you can make an informed decision about whether Penfield is the right fit for your healthcare requirements.