11749, Islandia, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11749, Islandia, New York is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.21 percent of residents in 11749 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Catherine Of Siena Hospital with a distance of 4.64 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Accessing Healthcare in Islandia, NY (ZIP Code 11749)**

Islandia, a small village nestled in the heart of Suffolk County, New York, presents a unique landscape for residents navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about breast cancer. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," considers the critical elements of **transportation** options, drive times, public transit, and available medical services within and surrounding ZIP code 11749. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking timely and effective breast cancer care. This is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Islandia**, as proximity to quality healthcare is a paramount consideration.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, weighing factors that directly impact a patient's ability to access diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. This assessment considers the burden of **healthcare access** in a community.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating Roadways to Care**

For residents of Islandia, the automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing medical facilities. The village's location, while convenient for commuting to New York City, presents some challenges in terms of healthcare access. Several major roadways serve the area, dictating the time it takes to reach essential medical services.

The Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as Interstate 495, is the most significant thoroughfare. Traveling east or west on the LIE is the most direct route to many hospitals and specialized clinics. Depending on traffic, drive times can fluctuate dramatically. During peak hours, a trip to a major medical center like Stony Brook University Hospital, approximately 15 miles east, could take upwards of 45 minutes or more. Conversely, a trip west to hospitals in Nassau County, such as those in the Northwell Health system, can be equally time-consuming.

The secondary arteries, such as Veterans Memorial Highway (Route 454) and the service roads flanking the LIE, offer alternative routes. These roads can be useful in avoiding traffic congestion on the expressway, especially during off-peak hours. However, they often involve navigating through more local traffic and may not always save significant time.

Further north, Motor Parkway, a limited-access road, provides another option, though it primarily serves residential areas and doesn't directly connect to major medical hubs.

The condition of the roads and the ever-present potential for traffic accidents also influence travel times. Residents should be aware of these factors when planning appointments and factor in extra time to ensure timely arrival. This is especially important for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, where punctuality is crucial.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Islandia are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides bus service, but routes and frequencies are often restricted.

The S92 bus route, for example, runs along Veterans Memorial Highway, offering a connection to the Ronkonkoma Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station. From there, passengers can access train service to New York City and other points east and west. However, this multi-modal journey can be time-consuming and may not be ideal for individuals undergoing cancer treatment who may have mobility limitations or require frequent medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. All Suffolk County Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall convenience of the system can vary.

The LIRR provides a more reliable and frequent service, but the Ronkonkoma station, while relatively close to Islandia, still requires a connection via bus, ride-share, or taxi. The LIRR also offers a direct route to Manhattan, where numerous specialized cancer centers are located.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Islandia, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals who cannot drive or who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly add up, especially for frequent trips.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and may be covered by insurance. However, availability and coverage can vary depending on the insurance plan and the specific needs of the patient.

Some national medical **transportation** brands, such as LogistiCare and Access2Care, operate in the Long Island area. Local companies may also offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

The availability of medical facilities within and near Islandia directly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." While Islandia itself doesn't have a major hospital, several prominent medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance.

Stony Brook University Hospital, a comprehensive medical center with a dedicated cancer center, is a primary resource for residents. Its proximity, though subject to traffic, offers access to advanced cancer treatments and clinical trials.

Other hospitals in the area, such as Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip and Southside Hospital in Bay Shore, also provide cancer care services. These facilities offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

The presence of specialized cancer centers, such as those affiliated with Northwell Health, is another important factor. These centers often offer cutting-edge treatments and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Summary**

Islandia's "Breast Cancer Score" reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While the village's location provides access to a range of medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create potential barriers to **healthcare access**. Traffic congestion, especially on the LIE, can significantly increase travel times, impacting the timeliness of appointments and the overall patient experience.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some relief, but these options can be costly and may not be readily available at all times. The limited public transit options, while ADA-accessible, further exacerbate the challenges for those without access to a car.

For individuals considering **moving to Islandia** or currently residing there, a proactive approach to healthcare access is crucial. This includes:

* Planning travel times carefully, accounting for traffic conditions.
* Exploring all available **transportation** options, including ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.
* Understanding the limitations of public transit and planning accordingly.
* Establishing relationships with healthcare providers and support services.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively addressing the challenges, residents of Islandia can improve their access to timely and effective breast cancer care. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is a complex issue, influenced by a variety of factors, and that individuals must take an active role in navigating the system to ensure their health and well-being.