14611, Rochester, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14611, Rochester, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.64 percent of residents in 14611 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Strong Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14611

Understanding the ease with which residents of Rochester's 14611 ZIP code can access healthcare is crucial for evaluating overall well-being. This analysis considers transportation options, travel times, and accessibility, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities in this area. Factors like proximity to medical facilities, public transit availability, and the practicality of alternative transportation methods significantly impact the score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries serving 14611 are the I-490 and the Genesee Expressway, providing rapid access to major medical centers. Driving times, however, fluctuate significantly depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. A trip to Strong Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 10-20 minutes under normal circumstances, utilizing the I-490 East. Rush hour can easily extend this to 30 minutes or more.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located closer to the residential areas often offer quicker access. Local roads like West Henrietta Road and South Avenue can provide alternative routes, although these are subject to traffic lights and congestion. The time spent in transit directly impacts the ability to receive timely medical attention, influencing the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) provides public transit options within 14611. Several bus routes traverse the area, offering connections to various healthcare facilities. Route 1, for example, serves the University of Rochester Medical Center, while routes 4 and 7 provide access to other medical offices.

The accessibility of public transit is a key consideration. RGRTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses with features like ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Long wait times and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time, potentially deterring residents from utilizing public transit for healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not own a vehicle. The availability and cost of ride-sharing, however, can vary depending on demand and the time of day.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for healthcare appointments are also available. These services often cater to individuals with specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or stretcher transport. These options, while providing a valuable service, can be more expensive than other modes of transportation, potentially creating a barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

**Accessibility and Barriers:**

The physical accessibility of healthcare facilities is another crucial factor. Buildings must comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate the premises. However, factors such as parking availability, the distance from parking to the entrance, and the ease of navigating within the facility can still pose challenges.

Financial constraints also play a significant role. The cost of transportation, including gas, public transit fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services, can be a barrier for low-income individuals. The availability of affordable healthcare options and financial assistance programs can mitigate this challenge, but the overall cost of transportation remains a key consideration.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for 14611 reflects the interplay of these factors. While the proximity to major medical centers like Strong Memorial Hospital provides a significant advantage, the reliance on transportation presents challenges. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The time it takes to reach healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, considering traffic congestion.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and convenience of RGRTA bus routes.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Physical Accessibility:** The ADA compliance of healthcare facilities and the ease of navigation within the premises.
* **Financial Barriers:** The cost of transportation and the availability of financial assistance programs.

**Implications for Moving to Rochester:**

For individuals considering moving to Rochester, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. 14611 offers a mix of advantages and disadvantages. The proximity to major medical centers is a significant benefit, but the reliance on transportation requires careful consideration.

Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and accessibility of bus routes and ride-sharing services. Those who own a vehicle should factor in traffic congestion and parking availability. Considering these factors will allow prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall quality of life.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the overall health score for 14611 requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing the frequency and reach of RGRTA bus routes, particularly during off-peak hours, would significantly improve healthcare access. Expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing options and medical transportation services would benefit those who cannot drive or use public transit.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as dedicated bus lanes and traffic light synchronization, could reduce drive times and improve the efficiency of public transit. Promoting awareness of financial assistance programs and healthcare resources would also help to address financial barriers. By addressing these issues, the community can improve the overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 14611 reflects a complex interplay of factors related to transportation and healthcare access. While the proximity to major medical facilities offers a significant advantage, the reliance on transportation creates challenges. By understanding these challenges and implementing targeted improvements, the community can enhance healthcare access and improve the overall well-being of its residents. This analysis provides valuable insights for residents, prospective movers to Rochester, and policymakers seeking to improve healthcare access within the 14611 ZIP code.