14718, Cassadaga, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14718, Cassadaga, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.40 percent of residents in 14718 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brooks-Tlc Hospital System, Inc with a distance of 9.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14718

The health and well-being of residents in Cassadaga, New York (ZIP Code 14718), are intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for those living in or considering moving to Cassadaga.

The "Overall Health Score" considers factors beyond mere proximity to medical facilities. It evaluates the ease, affordability, and reliability of transportation options, recognizing that these elements profoundly impact an individual's ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This assessment is particularly crucial for Cassadaga, a rural community where transportation challenges can significantly hinder healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Road Network**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in Cassadaga is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on the local road network to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and hospitals. Understanding the drive times to various healthcare providers is fundamental to assessing the overall health score.

The most direct route to larger medical facilities often involves traveling on New York State Route 60, a major north-south artery. Depending on traffic and weather conditions, a drive to UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown, a regional hospital, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes. This drive is generally manageable, but potential delays due to accidents or inclement weather can impact the reliability of this route.

Traveling east on County Road 438 offers access to smaller clinics and practices in the neighboring towns of Stockton and Gerry. These destinations are usually reachable within 10 to 15 minutes. However, the roads in this area can be narrow and winding, especially during winter months, potentially increasing travel times and safety concerns.

For specialized care or more extensive medical services, residents may need to travel further afield. The drive to Buffalo, approximately 60 miles north, presents a significant time commitment. This journey often involves using Interstate 86, followed by the New York State Thruway (I-90). This trip can take over an hour and a half, making it a considerable barrier for those needing frequent appointments or facing urgent medical situations.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Cassadaga are extremely limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Chautauqua Area Regional Transit System (CARTS) provides some service in the county, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and service to Cassadaga is not regularly scheduled.

CARTS offers demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service can be useful for medical appointments, but it requires careful planning and may not be suitable for urgent or unscheduled healthcare needs. Accessibility is also a concern. While CARTS vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts, the limited service area and scheduling requirements can still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

The absence of robust public transit significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who are elderly, low-income, or unable to drive. This lack of readily available transportation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately affecting health outcomes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jamestown area, but their presence in Cassadaga is inconsistent. Availability often depends on driver density and demand, making it unreliable for scheduled medical appointments. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for some residents, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the Chautauqua County area, including local ambulance services and private companies.

However, the availability and cost of medical transport services can vary. Residents may need to navigate insurance coverage and pre-authorization requirements, adding administrative burdens to the process. The overall health score considers the reliability, cost, and accessibility of these services, acknowledging their crucial role in bridging the transportation gap.

**Healthcare Access and the Moving to Cassadaga Consideration**

The overall health score is a critical factor for individuals considering moving to Cassadaga. The challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access should be carefully evaluated. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions or limited mobility, should thoroughly assess the available transportation options and their potential impact on their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is another crucial consideration. While UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown offers a wide range of services, residents may need to travel to Buffalo or other regional centers for specialized care. This necessitates a thorough understanding of drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 14718 reflects a complex reality. While residents have access to medical facilities, transportation limitations present significant barriers. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the scarcity of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing, creates challenges for many residents.

Improving healthcare access requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in enhanced public transit options, including more frequent routes and demand-response services, is essential. Supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services and increasing the availability of affordable medical transport options can also play a vital role.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and encouraging the establishment of local healthcare clinics can help bring medical care closer to residents. By addressing these transportation and healthcare access challenges, Cassadaga can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.