14549, Silver Lake, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14549, Silver Lake, New York is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.48 percent of residents in 14549 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 6.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Silver Lake (ZIP Code 14549)

The quaint village of Silver Lake, nestled in the heart of Wyoming County, New York, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and relative isolation. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 14549, specifically focusing on access to healthcare, requires a nuanced understanding of the transportation landscape. This includes drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, all crucial elements in determining the ease and efficiency with which residents can access essential medical services. For those considering moving to Silver Lake, this analysis provides a critical insight into the realities of healthcare access.

The primary challenge facing Silver Lake residents is its geographic remoteness. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Warsaw, approximately 10 miles to the north, and in the larger cities of Rochester and Buffalo, both requiring considerably longer travel times. This immediately impacts the "Overall Health Score," as distance and travel time directly influence the timeliness and accessibility of medical care. The primary thoroughfare connecting Silver Lake to the outside world is New York State Route 20A, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic, especially during peak hours and inclement weather.

Driving to Warsaw, the closest option, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive primarily involves Route 20A and then a short stretch of Route 19. Warsaw offers a variety of healthcare services, including Wyoming County Community Hospital, providing emergency care, primary care physicians, and specialist consultations. However, for more specialized treatments or advanced medical procedures, residents often need to travel further.

The journey to Rochester, a major medical hub, presents a more significant transportation hurdle. The most direct route involves taking Route 20A east to Interstate 390 North. The drive covers approximately 50-60 miles and can take anywhere from one to one and a half hours, depending on traffic. This time frame can be significantly extended during rush hour or in winter weather conditions, potentially delaying critical medical attention. Rochester boasts numerous hospitals, including Strong Memorial Hospital and the University of Rochester Medical Center, offering a comprehensive range of medical specialties and advanced technologies.

Buffalo, another major healthcare center, lies approximately 60-70 miles west of Silver Lake. The most common route involves taking Route 20A west to Route 19, then connecting to Interstate 90 (the New York State Thruway). The travel time is roughly one and a half to two hours, again subject to traffic and weather conditions. Buffalo is home to renowned medical institutions like the University at Buffalo Medical Center and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, providing specialized care options.

Public transportation options in Silver Lake are extremely limited, which significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score." Wyoming County does offer a public transit service, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily to serve Warsaw and the surrounding areas. Direct routes from Silver Lake to Rochester or Buffalo are non-existent. The availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses is variable, and riders should contact the Wyoming County transit authority for specific information. This lack of robust public transit makes accessing healthcare significantly more challenging for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence in Silver Lake is sporadic. Availability is heavily dependent on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. Residents cannot rely on ride-sharing as a guaranteed mode of transportation, especially for time-sensitive medical appointments or emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for residents who require assistance. Emergency medical services (EMS) are available in the area, with response times dependent on the location of the nearest ambulance and the severity of the medical situation. Non-emergency medical transportation, often provided by private companies, is available for scheduled appointments and other medical-related travel. These services, however, can be expensive, and their availability should be confirmed in advance. The reliance on these services further underscores the importance of considering transportation when assessing the "Overall Health Score" for Silver Lake.

For individuals considering moving to Silver Lake, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. The rural setting presents both advantages and disadvantages. The peaceful environment and close-knit community are appealing, but the limited access to healthcare facilities and transportation alternatives must be carefully considered.

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 14549 is significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities in Warsaw, Rochester, and Buffalo are substantial, and the lack of reliable public transit and ride-sharing options further compounds the problem. While medical transport services offer a solution, they can be costly and may not always be readily available.

The "Overall Health Score" is further influenced by factors beyond just access to physical locations. The availability of telehealth services, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can partially mitigate the transportation challenges. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, which can be inconsistent in rural areas.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Silver Lake (ZIP code 14549) is negatively affected by the limited transportation options and the distances to healthcare facilities. While the local community offers a sense of belonging, individuals considering moving to the area must carefully weigh the benefits of rural living against the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. The ability to drive, or access to a reliable transportation network, is paramount for ensuring timely and effective medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long travel times underscores the importance of planning and preparation for healthcare needs. Therefore, the "Overall Health Score" is moderate, with a significant need for improved transportation infrastructure and expanded access to telehealth services to improve the health and well-being of Silver Lake residents. The keywords transportation; healthcare access; and moving to Silver Lake have been integrated throughout the analysis.