11749, Islandia, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11749, Islandia, New York is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.21 percent of residents in 11749 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Catherine Of Siena Hospital with a distance of 4.64 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Islandia (11749)

Islandia, New York (ZIP Code 11749), a small village nestled in the heart of Suffolk County, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to major roadways. For individuals managing asthma, the ease of **transportation** to and from healthcare appointments is a critical consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up explores the **healthcare access** landscape in Islandia, evaluating the available options for those seeking specialized care, including pulmonologists and allergists, essential for asthma management. We'll consider the time constraints, accessibility features, and cost implications of various **transportation** methods, offering a comprehensive overview for residents and those **moving to Islandia**.

The primary arteries serving Islandia are the Long Island Expressway (LIE) or Interstate 495, the major east-west thoroughfare, and the Veterans Memorial Highway (Route 454), a vital north-south connector. These highways provide relatively quick access to hospitals and specialized clinics, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. The LIE, known for its notorious rush-hour backups, can transform a short drive into a frustrating ordeal, especially for someone experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the drive to the nearest major hospitals, such as St. Catherine of Siena Hospital in Smithtown or Stony Brook University Hospital, can vary significantly depending on the time of day. During off-peak hours, the drive to St. Catherine's, located approximately 6 miles away, might take 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, or even longer if an accident occurs on the LIE. Stony Brook University Hospital, a more comprehensive facility, is further afield, approximately 15-20 miles away. The drive time can range from 25-40 minutes in light traffic to over an hour during peak congestion.

Public **transportation** options in Islandia are limited but available. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system provides bus service, but routes are not always frequent or direct. The S58 bus, for instance, offers service along the Veterans Memorial Highway, connecting to various destinations, including the Smith Haven Mall and the Ronkonkoma Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station. The S58 can be a viable option for those without a car, but it's crucial to consider the frequency of service, which may require significant wait times, and the potential for delays due to traffic. Additionally, accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, are available on SCT buses, making them ADA-compliant.

The LIRR, while not directly accessible from Islandia, is a crucial **transportation** link. The Ronkonkoma station, a major hub, is accessible via the S58 bus or a short drive. The LIRR provides express service to Manhattan, where numerous specialized medical facilities are located. However, the commute to Manhattan can be lengthy, requiring a combination of bus, train, and potentially subway travel. This can be a significant consideration for asthma patients, especially during cold or allergy seasons.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** alternative. These services provide on-demand rides to various destinations, offering convenience and flexibility. However, the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or periods of high demand, can further increase the expense. The availability of ride-sharing services in Islandia is generally good, but it's essential to factor in potential wait times, especially during inclement weather.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like Ambulnz or Medical Transportation Management (MTM), provide specialized services for individuals with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. They can be a valuable option for those who require assistance with mobility or who cannot drive themselves. However, these services typically require advance booking and may be subject to eligibility requirements and insurance coverage.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities in Islandia is generally good, with several primary care physicians and urgent care centers located within a short distance. However, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, may require travel to neighboring towns or even Manhattan. The availability of specialized asthma care is a crucial aspect of **healthcare access** for residents.

When considering **moving to Islandia**, individuals with asthma should carefully evaluate the **transportation** options and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the cost of ride-sharing services should be considered. The potential for traffic congestion on the LIE and the impact of weather conditions on travel times are also important factors.

Islandia's Asthma Score is ultimately a reflection of the interplay between available **transportation** options and the accessibility of specialized healthcare. While the village offers a relatively convenient location, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays on major roadways present challenges for asthma patients. The availability of public **transportation** and ride-sharing services provides alternative options, but the cost and frequency of service should be carefully considered. The proximity of specialized medical care, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, is a critical factor in determining the overall Asthma Score.

For those **moving to Islandia**, thorough research into the available healthcare facilities and the **transportation** options to access them is essential. Understanding the potential travel times, the cost implications, and the accessibility features of each **transportation** method will empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The ability to efficiently and reliably access specialized asthma care is paramount to maintaining optimal health and quality of life in Islandia.