11959, Quogue, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11959, Quogue, New York is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.73 percent of residents in 11959 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 7.08 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Quogue (ZIP Code 11959)

The salty air and sprawling beaches of Quogue, New York (ZIP Code 11959), beckon with promises of idyllic living. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of healthcare access, particularly during an exacerbation, necessitates a far more critical examination. This "Asthma Score" assesses the accessibility of medical care, considering the diverse transportation options available to residents, a crucial factor in determining the suitability of this charming coastal community for those with respiratory sensitivities. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in navigating the healthcare landscape.

The primary consideration is the distance to medical facilities. The nearest urgent care centers and hospitals are not within walking distance for most Quogue residents. This immediately establishes a reliance on transportation. The availability and efficiency of various modes become paramount, especially during a sudden asthma attack.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The most direct route to healthcare often involves personal vehicles. The primary roadways serving Quogue are the **Sunrise Highway (NY-27)**, a major east-west artery, and **Montauk Highway (NY-27A)**, a scenic alternative running closer to the coastline. Drive times to the nearest medical facilities fluctuate depending on traffic, time of day, and seasonal congestion.

During peak summer months, the Sunrise Highway can become a parking lot, significantly extending travel times. A trip to **Peconic Bay Medical Center** in Riverhead, approximately 30 miles west, could easily exceed an hour during rush hour. The same holds true for **Southampton Hospital**, roughly 10 miles west, where summer traffic can make a 20-minute drive stretch to nearly an hour. Even a seemingly short journey to a local doctor's office in Westhampton Beach could be delayed.

The condition of these roadways is generally good, but potholes and construction can occasionally cause delays. The availability of parking at medical facilities is generally adequate, although it can become limited during peak hours. The overall reliance on a personal vehicle underscores the importance of reliable transportation for those with asthma.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Quogue are limited. The **Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)** provides service to the Quogue station, offering a connection to New York City and other Long Island towns. However, the LIRR is not designed for frequent, localized travel. The train station is not within easy walking distance of many residences, and the frequency of trains is limited, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends.

The **Suffolk County Transit (SCT)** system offers bus routes, but their coverage in Quogue is sparse. Routes are infrequent, and the network is designed for broader regional travel rather than convenient access to medical facilities. The schedules are not always aligned with the needs of someone experiencing an asthma attack.

ADA accessibility on both the LIRR and SCT buses is mandated, with features like ramps and designated seating. However, the limited reach of public transit and the potential for delays make it a less-than-ideal option for immediate healthcare access, particularly for those experiencing breathing difficulties. The lack of readily available public transit further complicates the picture for individuals considering moving to Quogue.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: The On-Demand Solution?**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in Quogue, offering a potentially convenient alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, common during periods of high demand, could significantly increase the cost of a ride to the hospital.

Medical transport services, such as **Ambu-Lift** and **TransCare**, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services offer a more reliable option for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. However, they typically require advance booking, which may not be feasible during an acute asthma episode. The costs associated with these services can also be substantial, adding another layer of consideration to healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: Navigating the Landscape**

The availability of healthcare providers within Quogue itself is limited. Residents typically rely on doctors' offices and specialists located in neighboring towns like Westhampton Beach, Southampton, and Riverhead. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation.

The presence of urgent care centers and hospitals in the surrounding areas is a positive factor. **Peconic Bay Medical Center** offers a full range of services, including an emergency room. **Southampton Hospital** provides comprehensive care, including specialized respiratory services. However, the travel times to these facilities, as discussed, remain a significant concern.

**Asthma Score Summary**

The "Asthma Score" for Quogue, ZIP Code 11959, reveals a mixed picture. The natural beauty and tranquil lifestyle are appealing, but the challenges of healthcare access cannot be ignored. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services create potential hurdles for individuals with asthma.

Those considering moving to Quogue must carefully weigh these factors. They should assess their ability to drive or have access to a reliable driver, and they should factor in the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport. Establishing a relationship with a local pulmonologist and developing an asthma action plan are crucial.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Quogue is moderate. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the transportation challenges create potential delays and stress during a medical emergency. Careful planning and proactive measures are essential for individuals with asthma who choose to call Quogue home. The reality of healthcare access in this coastal community is a complex equation, where the beauty of the surroundings must be balanced against the practicalities of ensuring timely medical care.