14892, Waverly, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 14892, Waverly, New York is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.97 percent of residents in 14892 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Arnot Ogden Medical Center with a distance of 16.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Waverly, NY (ZIP Code 14892)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately woven with the accessibility of healthcare. For residents of Waverly, New York (ZIP Code 14892), this accessibility is significantly shaped by the nuances of transportation. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing the ease and efficiency of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering various modes of transportation and their respective challenges. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Waverly, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

Waverly, nestled in the Southern Tier, presents a unique transportation landscape. While the charm of small-town living is undeniable, the geographical realities and limited public transportation options pose challenges to healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect this delicate balance, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in the system.

**Driving: The Dominant Mode**

For most Waverly residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare. The primary arteries for accessing medical facilities are **New York State Route 17 (future I-86)**, **Pennsylvania Route 199**, and local roads such as **Chemung Street** and **Broad Street**.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare hubs, such as Guthrie Corning Hospital in Corning, NY, and Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, are critical. Corning, approximately a 30-40 minute drive via Route 17, offers a broader range of specialized services. Sayre, a shorter 15-25 minute trip via Route 17 and Pennsylvania Route 199, provides a more immediate option for general medical needs. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours and inclement weather, can significantly impact these drive times, potentially delaying access to critical care.

The condition of these roadways is also a factor. While Route 17 is generally well-maintained, local roads can experience potholes and other issues, especially during the winter months. This can affect the safety and comfort of the commute, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in Waverly and the surrounding areas is limited, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Chemung County Transit System (CCTS) provides some service, but routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

The CCTS operates buses with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and wheelchair lifts. However, the routes may not always align with the specific needs of medical appointments, potentially requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, can be severely restricted, making it difficult to access urgent care or emergency services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Waverly area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a valuable service. Companies like Care Ride and First Transit Medical Transportation operate in the region, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services are often equipped to handle individuals with mobility challenges and can provide door-to-door service. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can impact the overall affordability of healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Waverly (ZIP Code 14892) is **moderate**. While the availability of driving and ride-sharing services provides some level of accessibility, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for extended drive times, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present significant challenges.

**Strengths:**

* Relatively short drive times to Sayre for general medical needs.
* Availability of ride-sharing services (though with limitations).
* Presence of medical transportation services for specialized needs.
* Route 17 provides a reliable, if sometimes congested, thoroughfare.

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public transportation options, especially for those without personal vehicles.
* Drive times to specialized healthcare facilities in Corning can be significant.
* Traffic congestion and inclement weather can impact drive times.
* The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a barrier for some.
* Limited public transit options may be a significant impediment for those considering moving to Waverly.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Expand Public Transportation:** Advocate for increased CCTS service frequency and route expansion, particularly to healthcare facilities and during off-peak hours.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies and medical transportation providers to offer discounted rates or subsidized services for residents.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve local roads to ensure safe and efficient travel, especially during winter months.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options and resources, including eligibility requirements for medical transportation services.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** Encourage the development of additional healthcare facilities, including primary care clinics and urgent care centers, within the Waverly area to reduce travel times.

**Conclusion**

Healthcare access is a fundamental determinant of community health. While Waverly offers a range of healthcare options, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges that must be addressed. By focusing on improving public transportation, promoting ride-sharing and medical transportation, and enhancing road infrastructure, Waverly can significantly improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need. This is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Waverly, directly influencing their ability to maintain their health and well-being.