14619, Rochester, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14619, Rochester, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.10 percent of residents in 14619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Strong Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 14619

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount for anyone considering a move, especially when evaluating a new community. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 14619 in Rochester, New York, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This score reflects the accessibility of healthcare facilities, a crucial factor in overall well-being.

ZIP code 14619, encompassing the vibrant neighborhoods of Beechwood and Upper Monroe, presents a unique challenge. While centrally located, its healthcare access is significantly impacted by transportation options. This analysis will examine the various ways residents can reach medical facilities, painting a picture of the strengths and weaknesses within the transportation infrastructure.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The cornerstone of transportation in 14619 is undoubtedly the automobile. Navigating the city necessitates understanding the major roadways. The primary arteries include the Inner Loop (Route 490), which provides access to the city's core and several hospitals. The East Avenue corridor, a significant thoroughfare, offers direct access to Strong Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider.

Driving times to healthcare facilities from 14619 fluctuate dramatically depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. During peak hours, the Inner Loop can become congested, potentially extending travel times to 20-30 minutes. However, off-peak, reaching facilities like Highland Hospital or Rochester General Hospital may take only 10-15 minutes. The efficiency of the road network is a double-edged sword; while offering direct access, it is susceptible to traffic delays, impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the RTS Network:**

The Rochester Transit Service (RTS) provides public transportation within the city. Several bus routes service the 14619 area, offering a viable alternative to driving. Route 1, a primary line, connects directly to Strong Memorial Hospital. Route 7 provides access to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Route 19 serves the East Avenue corridor, offering convenient access to various medical offices.

However, relying solely on public transit presents challenges. Bus schedules, while frequent during peak hours, can be less so during evenings and weekends. Transfers between routes can also add significant travel time. Moreover, the accessibility of bus stops and vehicles themselves is a critical factor. RTS strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, but the availability of accessible routes and stops varies.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Rochester, offering another layer of transportation options. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services also exist, catering specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained staff to assist passengers. These services are often covered by insurance or Medicaid, making them an accessible option for many.

**Healthcare Access: A Composite Score:**

Evaluating the overall health score requires considering the interplay of these transportation factors. While driving offers the quickest route, the variability in travel times due to traffic presents a concern. Public transit provides a more affordable option, but its limitations in terms of schedule, route availability, and accessibility detract from its overall score. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer valuable alternatives, but cost and availability remain considerations.

**Factors Impacting the Score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The concentration of hospitals and clinics within a reasonable driving distance positively impacts the score.
* **Public Transit Frequency and Accessibility:** Frequent bus service and ADA compliance enhance the score.
* **Availability and Affordability of Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The presence of these services and their affordability contribute to a higher score.
* **Traffic Congestion:** Heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, negatively impacts the score.

**Overall Health Score for 14619:**

Considering all factors, the Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in 14619 is **Moderate**. While the area benefits from its central location and proximity to several healthcare facilities, the reliance on driving and the limitations of public transit create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability can be a barrier.

**Recommendations for Improving the Score:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Improve ADA Accessibility:** Ensuring all bus stops and routes are fully ADA-compliant is crucial.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Encouraging partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services could make these options more affordable and accessible.
* **Invest in Traffic Management:** Implementing traffic management strategies to reduce congestion on the Inner Loop and other major roadways would improve driving times.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For those considering moving to Rochester, particularly the 14619 ZIP code, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The Overall Health Score provides a valuable framework for assessing the ease of accessing healthcare. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this analysis, potential residents can make an informed decision about whether the transportation options available in 14619 align with their individual healthcare needs. The goal is to ensure healthcare access is seamless, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being for those moving to Rochester.