11710, Bellmore, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11710, Bellmore, New York is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.28 percent of residents in 11710 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nassau University Medical Center with a distance of 3.53 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bellmore (ZIP Code 11710)

The specter of breast cancer looms large in the collective consciousness, demanding proactive vigilance and readily available healthcare access. For residents of Bellmore, New York (ZIP Code 11710), understanding the landscape of **transportation** options to crucial medical appointments is paramount. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the realities of **healthcare access** within and around this Long Island community, providing a detailed picture of the journey from home to potentially life-saving care. Considering **moving to Bellmore**? This information is vital.

The foundation of our score rests on the accessibility of diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and supportive services. Each element is weighted based on its importance in the continuum of breast cancer care. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive overview of what it takes to navigate the healthcare system in the event of a diagnosis.

Bellmore's geographic location on Long Island, while offering suburban charm, presents unique challenges. The area’s reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, significantly impacts **transportation** times. A high Breast Cancer Score requires efficient, reliable options for all residents, regardless of their personal circumstances.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many Bellmore residents, the car remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The proximity of major roadways dictates drive times to key medical facilities. The Meadowbrook State Parkway (NY-27) is a critical artery, offering relatively quick access to hospitals and imaging centers. During peak hours, however, this route can become a parking lot, extending commute times significantly.

Traveling east on the Southern State Parkway is another option, although this route also experiences heavy traffic. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) tracks run parallel to the Southern State, offering a potential alternative, but the "last mile" challenge – the distance between the train station and the medical facility – remains a factor.

Local roads, such as Merrick Road and Sunrise Highway, provide access to smaller medical practices and imaging centers. These routes are often less congested than the parkways, but they can be slower due to traffic lights and local traffic. The ability to quickly reach a facility for a mammogram or biopsy is crucial, and driving times become a significant factor in our score.

For individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment, the ease of parking and the availability of accessible entrances are essential considerations. Hospitals and imaging centers generally provide accessible parking and facilities, but this aspect is factored into the overall assessment.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag of Options**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a viable **transportation** alternative for some Bellmore residents. The Bellmore station provides access to trains heading both east and west. The challenge, however, lies in the "last mile" problem. While the LIRR offers a relatively quick commute to Manhattan, access to many Long Island hospitals from the train station requires a bus, taxi, or ride-sharing service.

The Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus system provides local **transportation** within Nassau County. Several bus routes serve Bellmore, but the frequency of service and the potential for longer travel times can be a deterrent. The lack of direct routes to major hospitals can also complicate matters. For individuals undergoing treatment, the potential for long wait times at bus stops and transfers can be a significant burden.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor in our assessment. Both the LIRR and NICE buses are required to provide accessible services, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the availability of these features and their functionality can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option for **transportation**, especially for those who do not drive or who need assistance. These services provide door-to-door service and can be readily accessed via a smartphone app. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and surge pricing during peak hours can further increase expenses.

Medical **transportation** services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer these services, but they may require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of medical transport services is a crucial factor, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a defining element of our Breast Cancer Score. Several hospitals and imaging centers are within a reasonable driving distance of Bellmore. These include:

* **Mercy Hospital (Rockville Centre):** A major hospital with a comprehensive cancer center.
* **South Nassau Communities Hospital (Oceanside):** Offers a range of cancer services.
* **Mount Sinai South Nassau (Oceanside):** Another option for comprehensive care.
* **Long Island Jewish Medical Center (New Hyde Park):** Part of the Northwell Health system.

The presence of accredited cancer centers and the availability of specialized services, such as radiation oncology and surgical oncology, are critical factors. The ability to access these services quickly and efficiently is paramount.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Bellmore (ZIP Code 11710) is a dynamic assessment. It considers all aspects of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, from the convenience of driving to the reliability of public transit and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by residents in their quest for timely and effective breast cancer care.

This score is not a static number; it is a reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape. As new medical facilities open, as public transit options improve, and as ride-sharing services become more prevalent, the score will change. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the barriers and facilitators to **healthcare access**, empowering Bellmore residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Considering **moving to Bellmore**? This information is vital.

The ultimate aim is to ensure that all residents of Bellmore have equal access to the resources they need to fight breast cancer. This includes not only the availability of medical care but also the ability to reach that care with minimal stress and maximum efficiency. The Breast Cancer Score is a tool designed to help achieve that goal, providing a clear picture of the journey to healthcare and highlighting areas for improvement.