14827, Coopers Plains, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14827, Coopers Plains, New York is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 14827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Corning Hospital with a distance of 9.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 14827 (Coopers Plains, NY)

The overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. This report, focusing on ZIP code 14827 (Coopers Plains, NY), provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, meticulously examining the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. For those considering moving to Coopers Plains, this analysis offers crucial insights into the practicality of navigating the region's healthcare infrastructure.

Coopers Plains, a charming rural community nestled in Steuben County, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The geographical isolation, while contributing to the area's tranquility, necessitates careful consideration of transportation options for medical appointments and emergencies. This analysis will delve into the available modes of transportation, assessing their efficiency, accessibility, and overall impact on the residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation in Coopers Plains is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars significantly influences the overall health score, as drive times directly affect the timeliness of medical interventions. Residents of 14827 typically rely on a network of local roads and highways to reach healthcare facilities.

The closest significant healthcare hub is the city of Corning, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via County Route 414 and Interstate 86 (I-86). This route provides relatively smooth access to Corning Hospital, a vital regional medical center. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times, potentially impacting patients' well-being.

Further afield, the city of Elmira, approximately a 30-40 minute drive via I-86 and NY-17, offers a wider array of specialized medical services, including the Arnot Ogden Medical Center. While the highway travel is generally efficient, weather conditions, especially during the harsh winter months, can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks.

Smaller towns and villages, such as Bath and Hornell, also offer healthcare options. Reaching these locations involves navigating a combination of local roads and highways. Drive times to these facilities range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions.

**Public Transportation Assessment:**

Public transportation options in 14827 are limited. Steuben County offers a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are restricted, particularly in rural areas like Coopers Plains. The service primarily caters to essential needs, such as shopping and medical appointments, but its accessibility is a significant concern.

The specific routes serving Coopers Plains are infrequent and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is essential for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service frequency and potential for lengthy travel times pose significant challenges for those relying on public transportation for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Corning and Elmira areas, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Coopers Plains itself is less reliable, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs. This variability can create financial barriers for residents seeking healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services typically require advance booking and may involve associated costs, adding to the complexity of healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 14827 is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the proximity to Corning Hospital provides relatively convenient access to essential medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present challenges.

The lack of robust public transit, the potential for extended drive times, and the variability of ride-sharing services can hinder timely access to healthcare, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, those with disabilities, and those facing financial constraints.

For those considering moving to Coopers Plains, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential for utilizing medical transportation services should be carefully evaluated.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score, several initiatives could be implemented:

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Increase the frequency and coverage of public transit routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities. Ensure the availability of ADA-compliant features and consider implementing demand-response services to cater to the specific needs of residents.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Partner with ride-sharing companies and medical transportation providers to offer subsidized or discounted services for residents with limited mobility or financial constraints.
* **Improve Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve the condition of local roads and highways to ensure safe and efficient travel. Address potential traffic bottlenecks and consider implementing measures to mitigate weather-related travel disruptions.
* **Community Outreach:** Educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources. Provide assistance with scheduling appointments and navigating the healthcare system.

By addressing these challenges and implementing targeted solutions, the community can enhance the overall health score and ensure that all residents of 14827 have equitable access to vital healthcare services. This will contribute to the well-being of the community and make Coopers Plains an even more attractive place to live.