14539, Retsof, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14539, Retsof, New York is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 14539 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 14.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14539 (Retsof, NY)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 14539 (Retsof, NY), provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Retsof.

Retsof, a small hamlet nestled in Livingston County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural character, while charming, often translates to longer travel distances to specialized medical care. The absence of a local hospital necessitates reliance on facilities in neighboring towns and cities, making transportation a critical factor in overall health outcomes.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries connecting Retsof to healthcare providers are the major roadways. Traveling south on **Interstate 390 (I-390)** provides access to the city of Rochester, home to a vast array of hospitals, specialists, and advanced medical services. However, peak traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times. The typical drive to Strong Memorial Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately 45-60 minutes under normal conditions, but can easily exceed an hour during rush hour.

Heading east, **New York State Route 20A (NY-20A)** offers a direct route to the town of Geneseo, where Noyes Memorial Hospital provides more immediate care options. The drive to Noyes is considerably shorter, typically 15-20 minutes, making it a more accessible option for urgent medical needs. However, the scope of services offered at Noyes is less comprehensive than those available in Rochester.

Local roads, such as **County Road 36** and **County Road 38**, provide alternative routes, but these are often slower and more susceptible to weather-related delays, especially during winter months. These roads are also less well-maintained, potentially posing challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those driving vehicles with limited ground clearance.

**Public Transportation Assessment:**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 14539 are limited. The Livingston Area Transportation Service (LATS) provides demand-response transportation within Livingston County. This service requires advance booking and may not be ideal for emergency situations. The availability of routes and schedules can fluctuate, impacting the reliability of this mode of transportation for scheduled medical appointments.

LATS operates with some vehicles equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for pre-booking can still pose challenges.

The absence of a fixed-route bus system in Retsof means that residents are heavily reliant on personal vehicles or the demand-response LATS service. This lack of readily available public transit creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive, or are financially constrained.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rochester area, but their presence in Retsof is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments could be unreliable, especially in emergencies or during inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often include door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate medical equipment.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in ZIP code 14539 is moderate. While the proximity to Noyes Memorial Hospital offers immediate care options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges for accessing specialized medical care in Rochester. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the need to rely on medical transportation services adds to the overall cost of healthcare.

For residents of Retsof, and for those considering moving to Retsof, several recommendations can improve healthcare access. Expanding the frequency and reach of the LATS service would significantly benefit residents. Partnering with local healthcare providers to offer transportation assistance programs, particularly for low-income individuals and those with mobility limitations, would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, could reduce the need for in-person visits and mitigate the challenges of transportation. Encouraging the development of a local healthcare clinic or establishing a satellite office of a larger healthcare provider would also improve access to care within the community.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and public transportation infrastructure, would further enhance the overall health score. Addressing the transportation challenges is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Retsof have equitable access to the healthcare they need. This is a critical factor for the well-being of the community and for attracting new residents to the area. The commitment to improving transportation to healthcare is a commitment to the health and vitality of Retsof.