14623, Rochester, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14623, Rochester, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.54 percent of residents in 14623 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Strong Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14623

Choosing a new home involves myriad considerations, and one of the most crucial is access to healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 14623 in Rochester, New York, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Understanding the ease (or difficulty) of getting to medical appointments is paramount, particularly for those considering moving to Rochester. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The 14623 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area of Rochester, and its healthcare access is influenced by its location and infrastructure. The score is calculated based on factors like proximity to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, alongside the efficiency of transportation methods. This analysis aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs within this specific geographic area.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the highway network is the primary conduit to healthcare facilities. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are the I-490, running east-west, and the I-590, heading north-south. The I-390, while less directly involved, can provide alternative routes. These highways are crucial for reaching major hospitals like Strong Memorial Hospital, located just outside the ZIP code, and Rochester General Hospital, a bit further afield.

Drive times can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours. A trip to Strong Memorial Hospital from the heart of 14623 can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-490. Rochester General Hospital, a longer drive, might take 20 to 30 minutes, utilizing a combination of I-490 and city streets. Local roads like Monroe Avenue, Winton Road, and South Avenue offer alternative routes, but these often involve more traffic lights and potential delays.

The overall drive-time score is moderately impacted by the relative ease of highway access. While the highway system is generally efficient, rush-hour congestion can significantly increase travel times, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with urgent needs. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another factor to consider, as parking availability can be limited, particularly during peak hours.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City's Network**

The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), operating under the name RTS, provides public transit within the city. Several bus routes serve the 14623 ZIP code, offering a crucial alternative to driving, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Key bus routes serving 14623 include the 1, 2, 7, and 19. Route 1, for example, travels along Monroe Avenue, providing access to various medical offices and pharmacies. Route 2 operates on East Avenue, connecting to downtown Rochester and further healthcare facilities. Route 7 runs on Winton Road, offering access to local clinics and services. Route 19 provides access to the University of Rochester Medical Center.

The accessibility of public transit is a critical component of the overall health score. RTS provides ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, the frequency of bus service can vary depending on the route and time of day. Some routes have limited service on weekends and evenings, potentially impacting healthcare access during off-peak hours.

The bus travel times are significantly longer than driving, especially during peak hours. A trip to Strong Memorial Hospital via public transit can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, including waiting time and transfers. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Rochester and offer a convenient alternative to public transit and driving. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need for parking and offering door-to-door service.

The availability of ride-sharing services in 14623 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The cost can vary depending on the time of day, distance, and demand.

Medical transport services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and Care Ride, are specifically designed for individuals with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport.

Medical transport services are generally more expensive than ride-sharing, but they provide a higher level of care and support. The availability of these services is generally good in Rochester, but it is essential to book them in advance, particularly for scheduled appointments.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis of Accessibility**

The Overall Health Score for 14623 is moderately positive. The presence of major highways provides relatively quick access to major hospitals, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times. Public transit offers a valuable alternative, especially for those without personal vehicles, but longer travel times and limited service during off-peak hours can be a barrier. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide on-demand options, but cost and availability can be factors.

The score is influenced by the proximity to healthcare facilities. While major hospitals are accessible, the concentration of medical offices and clinics within the ZIP code is moderate. This means residents may need to travel further for specialized care.

The healthcare access score for 14623 is also impacted by the availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services. The presence of multiple pharmacies within the ZIP code is a positive factor, providing convenient access to medications and other healthcare products.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Rochester and specifically to 14623, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. If frequent appointments are required, proximity to healthcare facilities and the efficiency of transportation options should be a primary consideration.

For those relying on public transit, understanding the bus routes and schedules is crucial. Planning trips in advance and allowing ample time for travel is essential. For those with mobility limitations, utilizing ADA-accessible buses and considering medical transport services is recommended.

For those relying on personal vehicles, understanding traffic patterns and planning routes in advance is critical. Considering the cost and availability of ride-sharing services can be beneficial.

Ultimately, the Overall Health Score for 14623 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major highways and the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services provide reasonable access to healthcare, individuals should carefully evaluate their specific needs and circumstances to ensure they can access the care they require. Moving to Rochester offers many opportunities, but understanding the local healthcare landscape is vital for a smooth transition.