11518, East Rockaway, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11518, East Rockaway, New York is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.44 percent of residents in 11518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Sinai South Nassau with a distance of 2.10 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in East Rockaway (ZIP Code 11518)

Considering a move to East Rockaway, New York (ZIP Code 11518), and managing asthma? This "Asthma Score" write-up details the transportation landscape, crucial for healthcare access, offering insights into drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions. Understanding these nuances is vital for anyone prioritizing ease of access to medical care, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

East Rockaway, a charming village on Long Island's South Shore, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Proximity to New York City is a significant advantage, but navigating the transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration. This assessment considers the specific needs of asthma sufferers, focusing on the practicality and reliability of various transportation modes to reach essential medical appointments and access specialized care.

**Driving Times: The Road to Relief**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. However, rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially when dealing with a medical condition like asthma. The primary arteries serving East Rockaway are the Meadowbrook State Parkway and the Long Beach Road.

Traveling north on the Meadowbrook State Parkway offers access to hospitals in the surrounding areas, including Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre. During off-peak hours, the drive to Mercy Hospital from East Rockaway is typically around 10-15 minutes. However, during morning and evening commutes, this can easily double, adding stress and potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Heading south on the Meadowbrook State Parkway leads to Long Beach, with access to urgent care facilities and medical specialists. The drive is generally shorter, around 10 minutes, but can be affected by summer traffic, particularly on weekends. Long Beach Road, a major thoroughfare, offers an alternative route, but it is often congested, especially near the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station.

Other important roads to consider are Ocean Avenue and Atlantic Avenue, which provide access to local medical offices and pharmacies. These roads are generally less congested than the parkways, but can still experience delays. Consider the time of day and the potential for traffic when scheduling medical appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

Public transit offers a viable alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer to avoid the stress of traffic or who don't own a car. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a direct route to New York City, offering access to a wide range of specialized medical facilities. The East Rockaway station is conveniently located, making it a practical option.

The LIRR commute to Penn Station in Manhattan is approximately 40-50 minutes. This can be a significant advantage for accessing specialized care at hospitals like NYU Langone Health or Mount Sinai Hospital. However, consider the potential for crowded trains, which can be a concern for asthma sufferers.

Bus routes provide local transportation within the area. The Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) operates several routes that serve East Rockaway, including the N32 and N33. These buses offer access to local medical offices, pharmacies, and other essential services. However, bus travel times can be longer than driving, and the frequency of service may vary.

For those relying on public transit, it's crucial to consider accessibility. All NICE buses are ADA-compliant, meaning they are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. The East Rockaway LIRR station is also accessible, but it is always wise to confirm the elevator/escalator status before traveling.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Expanding the Options**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, especially for those who need a more flexible schedule or who prefer door-to-door service. Ride-share availability in East Rockaway is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance for individuals with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and MediRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with asthma who require assistance with mobility or who need transportation to specialized medical appointments.

Medical transport services often provide door-to-door service, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free journey. They can be booked in advance, providing peace of mind and reducing the burden of coordinating transportation. However, it is important to compare prices and services to find the best option for your individual needs.

**Healthcare Access: Mapping Your Options**

East Rockaway and the surrounding areas offer a range of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities. Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre is a major hospital with a comprehensive range of services, including pulmonary specialists.

Long Beach Medical Center is another nearby option, offering urgent care and specialized medical services. Several private practices and clinics are also located in East Rockaway and neighboring communities. It is crucial to research the availability of asthma specialists and the quality of care provided by local healthcare providers.

When considering healthcare access, also factor in the proximity to pharmacies and the availability of prescription refills. Ensure that your chosen healthcare providers and pharmacies are easily accessible via your preferred mode of transportation.

**Asthma Score: Considerations for a Move to East Rockaway**

Moving to a new area with asthma requires careful planning. East Rockaway offers a mix of advantages and disadvantages concerning transportation and healthcare access.

**Advantages:**

* Proximity to New York City offers access to specialized medical care.
* The LIRR provides a reliable and direct route to Manhattan.
* Local medical offices and pharmacies are readily available.
* Ride-share and medical transport services offer alternative options.

**Disadvantages:**

* Traffic congestion can increase travel times, especially during peak hours.
* Public transit can be crowded, potentially triggering asthma symptoms.
* The cost of ride-share services can be high during peak hours.
* The availability of specialized asthma care may require travel outside the immediate area.

**Recommendations:**

* Prioritize healthcare access when choosing a home in East Rockaway.
* Familiarize yourself with the LIRR schedule and NICE bus routes.
* Consider using ride-share or medical transport services for medical appointments.
* Research the availability and quality of asthma specialists in the area.
* Plan your travel routes in advance, considering traffic conditions and potential delays.
* Maintain an up-to-date asthma action plan and carry your rescue inhaler at all times.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about moving to East Rockaway and ensure they have access to the healthcare they need. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount to successfully navigating the healthcare system and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This "Asthma Score" provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare access in ZIP Code 11518, empowering prospective residents to make informed choices about their health and well-being.