11720, Centereach, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11720, Centereach, New York is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.23 percent of residents in 11720 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Suny/Stony Brook University Hospital with a distance of 4.91 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Centereach (ZIP Code 11720)

Centereach, New York (ZIP code 11720), a vibrant community on Long Island, offers a blend of suburban charm and convenient access to various amenities. However, when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the ease of accessing timely and comprehensive healthcare becomes paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for Centereach, focusing on transportation options, a critical factor in determining healthcare access and ultimately, the quality of care.

Understanding the challenges and opportunities for transportation in this context is crucial. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, providing a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Centereach.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Centereach's location offers relatively straightforward access to medical facilities via car. The primary thoroughfare is **Middle Country Road (Route 25)**, a bustling commercial corridor. Driving east on Route 25 provides access to hospitals and specialized clinics in neighboring towns like Smithtown and Port Jefferson. Driving west, you can reach facilities in Selden and further into Suffolk County.

**The Long Island Expressway (LIE/I-495)**, a major east-west artery, provides a faster route to healthcare facilities, albeit often congested during peak hours. Accessing the LIE from Centereach typically involves navigating local roads like **North Ocean Avenue** or **Nicolls Road**.

Drive times vary depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. For example, a drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center, could take 20-40 minutes via the LIE or a combination of Route 25 and Nicolls Road. Smaller clinics and specialized practices in nearby towns might be accessible within 10-20 minutes.

**Sunrise Highway (Route 27)** is a viable option for destinations further west, though it is less direct than the LIE. The **William Floyd Parkway** offers a north-south route, providing access to medical facilities in the southern part of Suffolk County.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of the Suffolk County Transit**

Suffolk County Transit (SCT) offers public transportation options within and around Centereach. The primary bus routes serving the area are **S60**, **S61**, and **S63**, which run along Middle Country Road, connecting Centereach to neighboring towns and transportation hubs.

These routes provide access to medical facilities, though travel times are significantly longer than driving. The S60, for example, runs east-west along Middle Country Road, providing access to various medical offices and hospitals. The S61 offers connections to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) stations, enabling access to facilities further afield. The S63 runs north-south, providing access to other local destinations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for breast cancer patients. All Suffolk County Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, passengers should confirm the availability of these features when planning their journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: The Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Centereach. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for appointments, reducing the stress of navigating traffic and parking.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like **CareRide** and **MediRide** provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. These services are particularly valuable for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects.

**Medical Transportation: Specialized Care**

Beyond ride-sharing, specialized medical transportation services are available. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. Companies like **Ambulette Services** and **Medical Transportation Services** specialize in this area, offering a crucial service for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Centereach, based on the factors discussed, would be a dynamic assessment. It would consider drive times to various medical facilities, the frequency and reliability of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

The score would fluctuate based on several factors:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** The closer the patient lives to a comprehensive cancer center or specialized clinic, the higher the score.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability and frequency of bus routes serving the patient's location.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The ease of accessing ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and affordability of specialized medical transportation.
* **Patient Mobility:** The patient's ability to drive or use public transit independently.

**Recommendations for Centereach Residents**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Patients should carefully assess their transportation needs based on their diagnosis, treatment plan, and mobility.
* **Explore All Options:** Research and compare all available transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule transportation well in advance of appointments, especially for medical transportation services.
* **Utilize Support Services:** Take advantage of support services offered by hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations to help with transportation.
* **Advocate for Improvements:** Advocate for improved public transit and expanded medical transportation options in Centereach.

**Moving to Centereach: A Consideration**

For those considering moving to Centereach, healthcare access should be a key factor. The town offers a reasonable balance of transportation options, but it is essential to assess individual needs and preferences. Proximity to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ability to navigate the local infrastructure are all crucial considerations.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Centereach highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, residents can navigate the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis with greater ease and confidence. This assessment underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare, ensuring that patients have the support and resources they need to receive timely and effective care.