11735, Farmingdale, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11735, Farmingdale, New York is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.28 percent of residents in 11735 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chsli St Joseph Hospital with a distance of 1.85 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Farmingdale (ZIP Code 11735)

The allure of suburban life, with its promise of green spaces and a slower pace, often draws individuals and families to towns like Farmingdale, New York (ZIP Code 11735). However, for those managing chronic conditions such as asthma, the ease of access to healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the various transportation options available to residents of Farmingdale seeking medical care, with a particular focus on accessibility for individuals with asthma. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this Long Island community.

The "Asthma Score" is not a formal, standardized metric, but rather a qualitative assessment based on factors influencing healthcare accessibility for asthma sufferers. These include travel time, reliability, affordability, and the presence of features that accommodate the needs of individuals with respiratory conditions. The goal is to help potential residents understand the practical realities of accessing medical care within and around Farmingdale, empowering them to make informed decisions.

One of the primary considerations for anyone moving to Farmingdale is the ease of driving to healthcare facilities. Farmingdale's location in central Suffolk County places it within a reasonable distance of several hospitals, specialist offices, and urgent care centers. The primary artery for travel is the Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495. The LIE, notorious for its traffic congestion, can significantly impact drive times, especially during peak hours.

Traveling east on the LIE provides access to hospitals like Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center, and Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. Westbound on the LIE leads to hospitals like North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset. The drive to these facilities can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The Southern State Parkway, another major east-west route, offers an alternative, but it too can be subject to heavy traffic, especially during rush hour.

Local roads, such as Route 110 and Route 109, provide access to local medical offices and urgent care facilities. These routes, while often less congested than the LIE, can still experience delays, particularly during school hours and the evening commute. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a factor, as limited parking can add to the stress of a medical appointment, especially for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Public transportation presents another option for accessing healthcare, although its effectiveness for asthma sufferers depends heavily on several factors. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a direct route from the Farmingdale station to Penn Station in Manhattan, which provides access to a vast array of hospitals and specialist practices. However, the commute, including travel time to the station and the train ride itself, can be lengthy.

The LIRR, particularly the Ronkonkoma branch, provides frequent service, and the trains are generally clean and well-maintained. The Farmingdale station itself offers accessibility features, including ramps and elevators, to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the walk from the station to a medical facility may still pose a challenge for some individuals.

Local bus service, operated by Suffolk County Transit, provides a more localized transportation option. Several bus routes, including the S92, S94, and S91, serve Farmingdale and connect to nearby towns and medical facilities. However, bus schedules can be less frequent than train service, and the buses themselves may not always be as well-equipped with accessibility features as the LIRR.

The Suffolk County Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, making them accessible to many asthma sufferers. However, the unpredictable nature of bus schedules and the potential for exposure to allergens or irritants on the bus can pose challenges for some.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate traffic or walk long distances. The availability of ride-sharing services in Farmingdale is generally good, and the cost is often competitive with other transportation options.

However, ride-sharing services are subject to surge pricing during peak hours, which can significantly increase the cost of a ride. Also, individuals with severe asthma may be sensitive to allergens or odors in the vehicles, and the lack of control over the vehicle's environment can be a concern.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, while NEMT services offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transportation.

Several NEMT providers serve the Farmingdale area, including companies like LogistiCare and Veyo. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist passengers with mobility issues. The cost of NEMT services is often covered by insurance, making them an affordable option for many individuals. However, the availability of NEMT services can be limited, and booking in advance is often necessary.

For individuals with asthma, the "Asthma Score" for Farmingdale would likely be moderate. While the town offers a variety of transportation options, each has its limitations. Driving can be time-consuming due to traffic, and public transportation may not be ideal for those sensitive to environmental factors. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be expensive and may not always cater to specific needs. NEMT services provide specialized care but require pre-planning and may have limited availability.

Ultimately, the best transportation option for accessing healthcare in Farmingdale depends on individual needs and preferences. Individuals with severe asthma may benefit from the reliability and specialized care of NEMT services, while those with less severe symptoms may find ride-sharing or public transportation to be sufficient. Careful consideration of all available options is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access when moving to Farmingdale.