11742, Holtsville, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11742, Holtsville, New York is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.19 percent of residents in 11742 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 3.92 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Holtsville (ZIP Code 11742)

Holtsville, New York, nestled in the heart of Suffolk County (ZIP Code 11742), presents a unique landscape for individuals managing asthma. The ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services, particularly in a respiratory condition, is a critical factor when considering this community. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation infrastructure impacting healthcare access, specifically focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Holtsville, offering insights into navigating the healthcare landscape.

Holtsville's relative isolation, a characteristic of suburban living, influences healthcare access. The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are the Long Island Expressway (LIE/I-495) and Sunrise Highway (NY-27), both essential for reaching hospitals and specialist clinics. The LIE, running east-west, offers the most direct route to major medical centers, but it’s notorious for congestion, especially during peak hours. Sunrise Highway, also east-west, provides an alternative, often less congested, route, particularly for destinations further east.

The drive time to healthcare facilities varies significantly depending on the destination and time of day. For example, reaching Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center, via the LIE can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour during rush hour. Using Sunrise Highway might shave off some time, depending on traffic conditions. Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center in East Patchogue is closer, typically a 15-25 minute drive via either the LIE or Sunrise Highway. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in neighboring towns like Patchogue and Medford offer quicker access, usually within a 10-15 minute drive.

Public transportation options in Holtsville are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides bus service, but routes and frequency are not ideal for immediate healthcare needs. The S61 and S63 routes serve Holtsville, connecting to destinations like Patchogue and Ronkonkoma. These routes, however, may not directly serve all healthcare facilities and require transfers, significantly increasing travel time. ADA accessibility on SCT buses is available, offering a crucial service for individuals with mobility challenges.

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers another transportation option, with the Ronkonkoma station being the closest. However, the station is a considerable distance from many Holtsville residences, requiring a car or ride-sharing service to reach. The LIRR then provides access to hospitals and clinics in New York City and other Long Island towns, but the commute time is substantial, including travel to the station, the train ride, and the final leg to the healthcare facility.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Holtsville, providing a convenient, albeit potentially costly, alternative to driving or public transit. These services offer on-demand transportation, allowing residents to schedule rides to appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours, which might pose challenges for early morning or late-night appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare visits.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing specialized transportation. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the Holtsville area, including brands like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize standard transportation options due to their medical condition. While offering specialized support, medical transport services can be expensive, often requiring insurance coverage or out-of-pocket payments.

Healthcare access in Holtsville is further influenced by the availability of local pharmacies and urgent care facilities. Several pharmacies, including national chains and independent pharmacies, are located within a short drive, allowing residents to quickly fill prescriptions. Urgent care centers provide immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions, offering a convenient alternative to emergency room visits for asthma-related issues.

When considering moving to Holtsville, individuals with asthma should carefully assess the transportation options available to them. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and the potential for traffic congestion on the LIE and Sunrise Highway should be factored into the equation. Public transit, while available, presents limitations in terms of frequency and direct access to healthcare facilities. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but costs and availability should be carefully considered. Medical transport services provide crucial support for those with specific needs, but the associated expenses must be taken into account.

The Asthma Score for Holtsville, therefore, is moderate. While the presence of major highways provides access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but at a cost. Individuals with asthma should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities, assess their transportation needs, and carefully evaluate the available options before making a decision about moving to Holtsville. They should also consider the availability of local pharmacies, urgent care centers, and specialist clinics within the community. Thorough research and planning are essential to ensure seamless healthcare access and a comfortable living experience.