11721, Centerport, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11721, Centerport, New York is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.40 percent of residents in 11721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ns/Lij Hs Huntington Hospital with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Centerport, NY (ZIP Code 11721)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, extends far beyond the doctor's office. It encompasses the intricate dance of transportation, accessibility, and the very fabric of community support. This report, a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of Centerport, NY (ZIP Code 11721), offering insights into healthcare access for residents, especially those facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of how residents can navigate their healthcare journey.

Centerport, a charming hamlet nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The primary artery for vehicular travel is **New York State Route 25A**, a scenic but often congested road that snakes its way through the heart of the community. Residents also rely on **Larkfield Road**, **Little Neck Road**, and **Fort Salonga Road** to navigate the area. The proximity to the **Long Island Expressway (I-495)** offers a faster route to hospitals and medical centers located further west, but this comes with the added burden of tolls and potential traffic delays.

For those relying on personal vehicles, drive times to key healthcare facilities are a crucial consideration. **Huntington Hospital**, a primary healthcare provider, is typically a 10-15 minute drive via Route 25A or Larkfield Road, depending on traffic. **Stony Brook University Hospital**, a major regional medical center, can be reached in approximately 30-45 minutes, primarily via the Long Island Expressway. These drive times are estimates and can fluctuate significantly during peak hours, potentially adding to the stress and inconvenience for patients undergoing treatment.

Public transportation options in Centerport are limited but available. The **Suffolk County Transit (SCT)** offers bus service, with routes serving the area. The **SCT S1** bus route runs along Route 25A, providing access to Huntington and other nearby towns. The **SCT S20** offers access to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station in Huntington, which provides service to New York City and other areas.

While the SCT bus system offers a valuable service, it has limitations. Bus frequency can be infrequent, especially during off-peak hours and on weekends. The buses are not always ADA-compliant, which can present challenges for individuals with mobility issues. The reliance on bus schedules also necessitates careful planning, adding to the logistical burden of attending medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Centerport. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for individuals who may not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to medical conditions. Ride-sharing can be particularly helpful for appointments, offering door-to-door service and reducing the stress of navigating parking and traffic. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments, and surge pricing during peak hours can further increase expenses.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. Several medical transport companies serve the Centerport area, including **Ambu-Lift**, **CareRide**, and **First Transit**. These services can be a lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their medical condition. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

Healthcare access is a multifaceted issue, extending beyond transportation. It encompasses the availability of healthcare providers, the affordability of care, and the support systems available to patients. Centerport residents have access to a range of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. The proximity to Huntington Hospital and Stony Brook University Hospital provides access to comprehensive medical services, including breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Affordability is a critical factor in healthcare access. The cost of medical care, including transportation, can be a significant burden for patients. Insurance coverage and financial assistance programs can help to offset these costs. Community support networks, such as the **American Cancer Society** and local support groups, offer valuable resources and emotional support to patients and their families.

For individuals considering moving to Centerport, the availability of healthcare and transportation options should be a key consideration. The area's proximity to hospitals and medical centers, coupled with the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offers a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport should be carefully evaluated.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Centerport, NY, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers access to quality healthcare and a range of transportation options, challenges remain. Residents must navigate traffic, rely on limited public transit, and factor in the costs of ride-sharing and medical transport. The availability of community support networks and financial assistance programs can help to mitigate these challenges.

This assessment underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals navigating a breast cancer diagnosis in Centerport. Careful consideration of transportation options, financial resources, and support networks is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare. The journey to healthcare is a shared experience, and the community's commitment to supporting patients is vital.