11754, Kings Park, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11754, Kings Park, New York is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.73 percent of residents in 11754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Catherine Of Siena Hospital with a distance of 2.01 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kings Park (ZIP Code 11754)

Kings Park, nestled on the North Shore of Long Island (ZIP Code 11754), offers a charming suburban lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the ease of **healthcare access** is a critical consideration, especially concerning the complexities of **transportation**. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, examining the available **transportation** options and their potential impact on residents seeking medical care, particularly those moving to Kings Park.

The "Asthma Score" isn't a numerical value, but rather a qualitative evaluation considering factors like travel time, accessibility, and the availability of specific **transportation** modes. For asthma sufferers, prompt and reliable access to medical attention is paramount. Delays or difficulties in reaching healthcare providers can exacerbate symptoms and potentially lead to serious health complications.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For those who drive, the primary routes for accessing healthcare in and around Kings Park are the **New York State Route 25A** (Northport Road) and the **Sunken Meadow State Parkway**. Route 25A, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides direct access to local medical offices and is generally less congested than the parkway, making it a viable option for quick trips.

The **Sunken Meadow State Parkway**, while offering a more direct route to certain hospitals and specialists, can experience significant traffic during peak hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes. This congestion could be a major concern for someone experiencing an asthma flare-up, potentially delaying their arrival at a medical facility. The parkway also has limited access points, which could further complicate travel.

Drive times to nearby healthcare facilities vary. St. Catherine of Siena Hospital in Smithtown, a common destination for local residents, is approximately a 10-15 minute drive via Route 25A or the Sunken Meadow Parkway (depending on traffic). Huntington Hospital, a larger facility with a broader range of specialists, is roughly a 20-30 minute drive, primarily via the Sunken Meadow Parkway and then the **Northern State Parkway** or **NY-110**.

**Public Transit: Navigating the LIRR and Beyond**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a public **transportation** alternative, but its utility for asthma patients requires careful consideration. The Kings Park station provides access to the Port Jefferson Branch, offering service to Penn Station in Manhattan and other destinations along the line. However, the train schedule, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, may not always align with urgent medical needs.

From the Kings Park station, connecting to healthcare facilities often involves a transfer to local buses or ride-sharing services. This adds to the overall travel time and introduces potential delays. The accessibility of the LIRR station itself is a factor; while the station is generally accessible, it's crucial to confirm specific ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms, before relying on this mode of **transportation**.

Suffolk County Transit operates several bus routes serving the Kings Park area. Route 25, for example, connects Kings Park with Smithtown and Huntington, providing access to medical offices and hospitals. Route 27, another option, travels to various locations. However, bus schedules are often less frequent than train service, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options for Enhanced Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Kings Park and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide door-to-door **transportation**, potentially reducing travel time and minimizing the need for transfers. However, ride-sharing costs can add up, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in inclement weather.

For individuals with more severe asthma or those requiring specialized medical **transportation**, medical transport services are available. These services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers, offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and ambulance services. NEMT services are particularly useful for patients who cannot drive or use public transit independently. These services often have specialized vehicles and trained personnel, providing a higher level of care and support during transit.

**Accessibility and Asthma: A Crucial Connection**

When assessing **healthcare access** for asthma sufferers, the accessibility of medical facilities themselves is just as important as the **transportation** options. Consider factors like the availability of parking, the distance from the parking area to the entrance, and the presence of ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms within the medical office or hospital.

Furthermore, the location of pharmacies, urgent care clinics, and emergency rooms relative to residential areas is a crucial factor. Quick access to these resources can be life-saving during an asthma emergency. Researching the proximity of these facilities to potential residences in Kings Park is essential for informed decision-making.

**Moving to Kings Park: A Personalized Assessment**

For individuals considering **moving to Kings Park**, a personalized assessment of their **transportation** needs is highly recommended. This assessment should include:

* **Frequency of medical appointments:** How often do you need to see a doctor or specialist?
* **Severity of asthma:** How frequently do you experience asthma flare-ups?
* **Ability to drive:** Are you able to drive, or do you rely on other forms of **transportation**?
* **Budget for **transportation**:** How much are you willing to spend on **transportation** costs?
* **Proximity to essential services:** How close are you to medical offices, pharmacies, and emergency rooms?

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** in Kings Park and choose a location that best suits their needs.

**The Asthma Score Summary**

In summary, Kings Park offers a mixed bag for asthma sufferers regarding **healthcare access**. Driving provides the most direct route, but traffic congestion on the parkways can be a concern. Public transit, while available, requires careful planning and may involve longer travel times and transfers. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative options, but they come with associated costs.

The "Asthma Score" for Kings Park is therefore nuanced. While the area provides access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for delays on public transit require careful consideration. For individuals with severe asthma or those who are unable to drive, the availability of medical transport services and the proximity of healthcare facilities to their residence become critical factors.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" is not a definitive rating, but a framework for evaluating the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access** for asthma patients. By carefully assessing their individual needs and the available resources, individuals can make informed decisions about **moving to Kings Park** and ensure their ability to receive timely and effective medical care.