11719, Brookhaven, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11719, Brookhaven, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.71 percent of residents in 11719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 3.10 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brookhaven, NY (ZIP Code 11719)

Imagine a diagnosis. The world shrinks, the future hazy. Now, add the logistical nightmare of accessing potentially life-saving care. For residents of Brookhaven, New York (ZIP Code 11719), the journey to fight breast cancer is inextricably linked to transportation. This "Breast Cancer Score" assesses healthcare access, focusing on the critical role of transportation, offering a roadmap for those seeking care or considering moving to this Long Island community.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability to key healthcare facilities. It aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, empowering informed decisions during a vulnerable time. The goal is not just to survive breast cancer, but to navigate the journey with dignity, ease, and the best possible chance of success.

**The Score's Foundation: Key Healthcare Facilities**

Our assessment centers on the hospitals and cancer centers offering comprehensive breast cancer care, within a reasonable radius of Brookhaven. These include: Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center; Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson, known for its cancer services; and the Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue. These facilities represent the core of healthcare access for residents of 11719.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many, the car is king. The primary arteries for Brookhaven residents are the Long Island Expressway (LIE/I-495), the William Floyd Parkway (CR 46), and Montauk Highway (NY-27A). Traffic is a constant variable. Rush hour, especially on the LIE, can transform a 20-minute drive into an hour-long ordeal.

From the heart of Brookhaven, reaching Stony Brook University Hospital via the LIE typically takes 20-30 minutes in off-peak hours. However, a morning commute can easily double that. Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson, accessible via the LIE and then North Country Road, offers a slightly shorter drive, often around 20 minutes. Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue, reached via the William Floyd Parkway and Montauk Highway, is usually a 15-20 minute drive.

The William Floyd Parkway provides a more direct route to the south shore and Long Island Community Hospital, often bypassing LIE congestion. However, it can also become heavily congested during peak hours. Montauk Highway, while scenic, is often slower due to traffic lights and local traffic. Considering these factors, the drive time is a crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a potential lifeline. The Ronkonkoma station, a major hub, provides service to Penn Station in Manhattan, and connections to other hospitals. However, the LIRR is not a direct solution for all healthcare needs. From the Ronkonkoma station, patients would need to navigate to the hospitals via taxi, ride-share, or local buses.

Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides local bus service. Routes 6A, 6B, and 60 offer connections to various hospitals, including Stony Brook University Hospital and Mather Hospital. However, bus schedules can be infrequent, and travel times are significantly longer than driving. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. SCT buses are equipped with ramps and lifts, but the reliability and convenience of the service are often questioned. The Breast Cancer Score must account for the limitations of public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Options and Limitations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Brookhaven. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, ride-share costs can quickly add up, especially for frequent appointments. Availability can also be an issue, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transport for patients with mobility issues. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While providing a valuable service, these are often the most expensive option. The Breast Cancer Score must balance the convenience of these services with their cost.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for Brookhaven (11719) is not a single number. It's a multifaceted evaluation, considering the following:

* **Drive Time:** Average travel time to key hospitals during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency, reliability, and ADA accessibility of bus routes and LIRR connections.
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** The ease of accessing ride-sharing services and the associated expenses.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability and cost of specialized medical transportation services.
* **Overall Accessibility:** A composite score reflecting the ease and affordability of accessing healthcare.

This score will be influenced by individual circumstances. For those with reliable transportation and the financial means, the score might be relatively high. For those relying on public transit or facing financial constraints, the score could be significantly lower.

**Moving to Brookhaven: A Transportation Consideration**

For those considering moving to Brookhaven, this analysis highlights the importance of transportation. Proximity to major roadways, access to public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services should be key factors in choosing a home. Consider the impact of commute times on appointment schedules, treatment regimens, and overall well-being.

The Breast Cancer Score is a tool to empower informed decision-making. It's a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the quality of medical care, but also about the ability to get there. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents of Brookhaven can better navigate the challenges of breast cancer and improve their chances of successful outcomes. This is especially important for those considering moving to Brookhaven.