11724, Cold Spring Harbor, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11724, Cold Spring Harbor, New York is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.76 percent of residents in 11724 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ns/Lij Hs Huntington Hospital with a distance of 1.98 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cold Spring Harbor (ZIP Code 11724)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is multifaceted. It extends beyond the medical expertise of oncologists and surgeons; it encompasses the practicalities of transportation, the ease of access, and the overall ability to navigate the system. This "Breast Cancer Score" for Cold Spring Harbor (ZIP code 11724) aims to illuminate these crucial aspects, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering a move, particularly concerning transportation and healthcare access.

Cold Spring Harbor, nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, offers a picturesque setting. Yet, its relative seclusion necessitates careful consideration of transportation options when facing the complexities of breast cancer treatment. The proximity to quality healthcare is paramount, and the ability to reach these facilities efficiently is a critical component of the overall care experience. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of healthcare accessibility within the context of ZIP code 11724.

The primary arteries of transportation in this area are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) and the Northern State Parkway. The LIE, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides relatively direct access to several major hospitals. However, rush hour traffic can significantly impact drive times. The Northern State Parkway, a more scenic route, often experiences less congestion, offering an alternative for those traveling to hospitals further west. Local roads, such as Jericho Turnpike (Route 25) and Woodbury Road, serve as connectors, but their traffic patterns can vary considerably.

For those driving, the drive time to major cancer centers is a key consideration. Northwell Health's Huntington Hospital, located approximately 10-15 minutes away via Route 25A or the LIE (depending on traffic), offers comprehensive cancer care. Stony Brook University Hospital, a larger facility with a renowned cancer center, is roughly a 30-45 minute drive, primarily via the LIE. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) in Commack, a satellite location of the prestigious New York City institution, is accessible within 20-30 minutes, again influenced by traffic conditions on the LIE.

Public transportation presents another facet of the accessibility equation. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a reliable option, with the Cold Spring Harbor station offering service to Manhattan and other Long Island locations. The Huntington station, a short drive or taxi ride from Cold Spring Harbor, offers more frequent service. However, the LIRR, while convenient, requires a transfer to a bus or taxi to reach many hospitals, particularly those located away from the train stations.

The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) bus system provides local transportation. Route 40, for example, runs along Jericho Turnpike, offering a potential connection to Huntington Hospital. However, bus schedules may not always align with medical appointments, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving. ADA accessibility on SCT buses is generally available, but it's essential to confirm specific features when planning travel.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. Availability in Cold Spring Harbor is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can impact costs. The accessibility of these services to transport patients to and from medical appointments is a significant advantage, providing flexibility and convenience.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to address the needs of patients requiring assistance. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering door-to-door service with trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. These services are particularly valuable for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, who may experience fatigue or other side effects that make driving difficult.

The decision to move to Cold Spring Harbor, or any community, involves weighing numerous factors. For individuals facing or at risk of breast cancer, healthcare access is a critical consideration. This analysis highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape, from the efficiency of driving routes to the availability of public transit and specialized medical transport.

The Breast Cancer Score for Cold Spring Harbor, therefore, is not a single number but a composite picture. It reflects the drive times to various cancer centers, the reliability of public transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. This information empowers residents and prospective movers to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, ensuring that the journey to care is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Considering the proximity to Huntington Hospital, the access to MSKCC's Commack location, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, Cold Spring Harbor offers reasonable access to breast cancer care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays on the LIE highlight the importance of careful planning and flexibility. The availability of LIRR service and SCT buses provides additional options, although with potential time constraints.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Cold Spring Harbor is a nuanced assessment. While the community benefits from its proximity to quality healthcare facilities, residents must be prepared to navigate the transportation landscape, considering both the convenience of driving and the availability of alternative options. This comprehensive understanding is essential for anyone seeking or requiring breast cancer care within the context of this beautiful North Shore community.