11729, Deer Park, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11729, Deer Park, New York is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.79 percent of residents in 11729 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pilgrim Psychiatric Center with a distance of 3.64 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deer Park (ZIP Code 11729)

Moving to a new community, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands meticulous research. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for residents of Deer Park, New York (ZIP Code 11729), focusing on transportation options for healthcare access. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the logistical landscape for those managing asthma.

Deer Park, a suburban haven on Long Island, offers a mix of residential areas and commercial hubs. Its proximity to major roadways and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides options for navigating the region. However, transportation challenges can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals with asthma, who may experience exacerbations requiring prompt medical attention.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

The primary mode of transportation in Deer Park is the automobile. The ease of driving is a crucial element in our Asthma Score assessment. Several hospitals and urgent care facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, though traffic conditions can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.

For residents of Deer Park, the Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495, serves as a major artery. Traveling east on the LIE provides access to hospitals like Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip, typically a 15-20 minute drive in off-peak hours. The LIE, however, is notorious for congestion. Rush hour can easily double or triple travel times, potentially creating a critical delay for someone experiencing an asthma attack.

The Southern State Parkway, accessible via the Sagtikos Parkway, offers an alternative route, particularly for destinations further west. However, the Southern State Parkway is also prone to traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes. The Sunrise Highway (Route 27) is another option, though it is often more congested than the LIE.

Local roads like Deer Park Avenue (Route 231) and Commack Road provide access to local medical offices and urgent care facilities. These routes are generally less congested than the major highways, but they can still experience traffic during peak times and at intersections.

The Asthma Score for driving is moderately favorable. While several healthcare facilities are accessible by car, the unpredictable nature of traffic on the LIE and other major roadways necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative routes. The reliance on personal vehicles also presents challenges for individuals without access to a car.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag:**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a viable public transportation option for accessing healthcare facilities. The Deer Park station provides access to the Ronkonkoma Branch, which connects to New York City and other Long Island towns.

The LIRR offers service to several hospitals, including those in New York City. However, the travel time to these facilities can be significant, often exceeding an hour, depending on the destination and transfer requirements. This extended travel time may not be ideal during an asthma emergency.

The LIRR has ADA-compliant features, including accessible platforms and elevators. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations or those who may experience difficulty walking during an asthma flare-up.

Suffolk County Transit operates bus routes in the area, providing local transportation options. These routes connect to the LIRR stations and provide access to various medical offices and facilities. However, bus service frequency can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends, potentially creating accessibility challenges.

The Asthma Score for public transportation is mixed. The LIRR provides access to hospitals, but travel times can be lengthy. The Suffolk County Transit bus system offers local options, but limited service frequency can pose challenges. ADA compliance is a positive factor, but the overall reliance on multiple modes of transportation can be cumbersome during an asthma emergency.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Deer Park. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who do not have access to a car or who prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can also be a valuable option for transportation to and from medical appointments.

The Asthma Score for ride-sharing is moderately favorable. The availability of these services provides flexibility and convenience. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Additionally, the reliability of ride-sharing services during peak hours or inclement weather can be unpredictable.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in Deer Park. These services cater to individuals with specific medical needs, including those requiring assistance with mobility or those unable to use other forms of transportation.

Ambulance services are essential for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. NEMT services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations. Several companies, like SeniorCare and MedTrans, provide NEMT services in the area.

The Asthma Score for medical transportation is highly favorable. Ambulance services ensure rapid response during emergencies, and NEMT services provide accessible transportation for routine medical needs. However, it is essential to have a clear understanding of insurance coverage and the associated costs of these services.

**Overall Asthma Score and Considerations:**

The overall Asthma Score for transportation and healthcare access in Deer Park (ZIP Code 11729) is moderate. While several transportation options are available, each has its limitations. Driving offers convenience but is subject to traffic delays. Public transportation provides access but can involve lengthy travel times and limited service frequency. Ride-sharing offers flexibility but can be costly and unreliable. Medical transportation services are readily available for emergencies and specific medical needs.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Deer Park, careful planning and preparation are essential. It is crucial to identify nearby healthcare facilities, assess travel times using different transportation modes, and understand the availability and cost of medical transportation services.

Consider the proximity to emergency services and the ease of accessing them during an asthma flare-up. Develop a contingency plan that includes alternative transportation options in case of traffic delays or public transit disruptions. Familiarize yourself with local pharmacies and their hours of operation.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Deer Park is not a definitive rating but a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape. By understanding the available options and their limitations, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about healthcare access and ensure their well-being in this suburban community. This includes evaluating the best routes and times to travel to the nearest hospital, North Shore University Hospital in Huntington or St. Catherine of Siena Hospital in Smithtown, both offering specialized pulmonary care. Careful consideration of these factors will allow you to navigate the healthcare system confidently and maintain a healthy and fulfilling life in Deer Park.