11743, Huntington, New York Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 11743, Huntington, New York is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.89 percent of residents in 11743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ns/Lij Hs Huntington Hospital with a distance of 0.89 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Huntington, NY (ZIP Code 11743)

The aching joints of arthritis can significantly impact daily life, making even simple tasks a challenge. For residents of Huntington, NY (ZIP Code 11743), accessing specialized healthcare is crucial. This Arthritis Score assesses the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, considering various modes and their associated challenges, offering a glimpse into **healthcare access** within this Long Island community. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Huntington**, ensuring they understand the practicalities of managing their condition.

The geography of Huntington, a sprawling town with a mix of suburban and more rural areas, dictates the **transportation** landscape. The primary artery for vehicular travel is the Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495. This highway, while providing direct access to New York City and beyond, can be notoriously congested, especially during peak hours. Route 25A, a more scenic alternative, winds its way through Huntington, offering access to local businesses and medical offices but often experiences heavy traffic. The Northern State Parkway, further north, provides another route, offering a slightly faster option for those heading west.

Drive times to healthcare providers vary significantly based on location within the ZIP code and the destination. A trip from the western edge of 11743 to Huntington Hospital, a major medical center, could take as little as 10 minutes via the LIE during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this same journey could easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, highlighting the unpredictable nature of car travel. Accessing specialized rheumatology clinics located further east, in areas like Smithtown or Stony Brook, would necessitate longer commutes, potentially exceeding an hour, particularly during peak times.

Public **transportation** options, while available, present their own set of hurdles. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a commuter rail service with stations within the ZIP code, offering a potentially viable alternative to driving. The Huntington station, for example, is centrally located. However, the LIRR primarily focuses on east-west travel, making it less useful for those needing to access healthcare facilities located north or south of the tracks. Transfers to local bus routes, such as the Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system, are often required, adding travel time and complexity.

The SCT system offers several routes that serve the Huntington area. Route 1A, 1B, and 1C are key for north-south travel. Route 2A and 2B provide east-west connections. However, frequency can be a concern, especially during evenings and weekends. The SCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, crucial for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential for delays can make public **transportation** a less appealing option for those experiencing pain and fatigue.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand **transportation**, providing a more convenient alternative to public transit or driving. Availability in Huntington is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to 15 minutes, depending on demand. However, the cost of ride-share services can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-share services can be affected by traffic conditions and driver availability, adding an element of uncertainty to the planning process.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another option. Companies like SeniorCare Transportation and MedTrans offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of the vehicle and navigating medical facilities. While offering convenience and peace of mind, medical **transportation** services typically come at a higher cost than ride-share or public transit. Booking in advance is often required.

Considering the various **transportation** options, the Arthritis Score for Huntington (ZIP Code 11743) is nuanced. While the presence of major highways like the LIE and the availability of ride-share services offer some advantages, the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of specialized medical **transportation** create challenges. The ideal scenario involves a combination of factors: residing near a medical facility or LIRR station, having access to a reliable car, and being able to utilize ride-share or medical **transportation** when needed.

For individuals **moving to Huntington** with arthritis, careful consideration of proximity to healthcare providers and access to reliable **transportation** is paramount. Researching the location of rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other specialists is essential. Assessing the availability and cost of various **transportation** options, including public transit, ride-share services, and medical **transportation**, is equally important.

Ultimately, the Arthritis Score for Huntington (11743) reflects the realities of living with a chronic condition in a suburban environment. While the community offers access to healthcare, navigating the **transportation** landscape requires careful planning and a willingness to adapt to the specific challenges of the area. The best approach involves proactive research, a realistic assessment of individual needs, and a commitment to finding the most efficient and comfortable means of accessing the healthcare required to manage arthritis effectively.