11758, Massapequa, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11758, Massapequa, New York is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.15 percent of residents in 11758 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chsli St Joseph Hospital with a distance of 3.16 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Massapequa (ZIP Code 11758)

For those considering a move to Massapequa, New York (ZIP code 11758), a critical aspect of quality of life is healthcare access. Specifically, for women, understanding the ease of reaching breast cancer screening and treatment facilities is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a detailed overview of transportation options, drive times, and accessibility considerations, allowing potential residents to assess their ability to navigate the healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the realities of healthcare access, not to endorse or condemn any specific location or service.

The foundation of healthcare access in Massapequa is its proximity to established medical centers. These facilities, including those specializing in breast cancer care, are often concentrated along major roadways, making automobile travel a primary mode of transportation. Driving times, however, can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak commuting hours.

The Long Island Expressway (LIE), or I-495, is a crucial artery for accessing healthcare facilities. From Massapequa, a drive west on the LIE can lead to hospitals in Nassau County, such as North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, a well-regarded facility with a comprehensive breast cancer program. This drive, under ideal conditions, might take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. However, morning and evening rush hour can easily double or even triple that time, turning a relatively short journey into a lengthy ordeal.

Alternatively, traveling east on the LIE provides access to facilities in Suffolk County. The drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, another major healthcare provider, could take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic. The Southern State Parkway offers a parallel route to the LIE, providing an alternative, though often congested, option. This parkway, though generally less prone to massive traffic jams than the LIE, is still subject to delays, especially during the summer months when beach traffic is heavy.

Local roads, such as Sunrise Highway (Route 27) and Merrick Road, offer additional access points to healthcare facilities. These roads are often used for shorter trips to local doctor's offices and urgent care centers. However, these routes can also be heavily congested, especially during the morning and evening commutes. The drive to a local facility might take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the time of day and the specific location.

Public transportation presents another option for navigating the healthcare landscape. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides commuter rail service from the Massapequa station. The Babylon branch of the LIRR offers direct access to Penn Station in Manhattan, where numerous hospitals and specialized medical centers are located. However, the train ride itself can take approximately an hour, and the journey to the hospital from Penn Station adds additional time.

The LIRR is generally accessible, with ADA-compliant features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible seating. However, transferring between trains and navigating the complexities of a large station like Penn Station can still present challenges for some individuals. The availability of accessible restrooms and the potential for overcrowding during peak hours are additional considerations.

Bus service, provided by the Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE), offers a more localized public transportation option. Several NICE bus routes serve Massapequa, connecting residents to nearby towns and healthcare facilities. However, bus routes are often less direct than car travel or the LIRR, and travel times can be significantly longer.

NICE buses are generally ADA-compliant, equipped with ramps and other accessibility features. However, bus frequency can be limited, especially during off-peak hours and on weekends. The need for transfers and the potential for delays due to traffic are additional factors to consider.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services are readily available in Massapequa and offer door-to-door transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have limited availability.

For individuals considering a move to Massapequa, the "Breast Cancer Score" should be considered alongside other factors, such as proximity to work, schools, and recreational activities. The ability to access timely and convenient healthcare is a crucial element of quality of life. Potential residents should carefully assess their individual needs and preferences when evaluating the available transportation options.

The ease of healthcare access is not static. It’s subject to change due to traffic, public transportation schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing services. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about current conditions and to plan accordingly. Moving to Massapequa requires careful consideration of all factors, including the ease of accessing the healthcare services needed.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" aims to empower potential residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. By understanding the complexities of transportation options, drive times, and accessibility considerations, individuals can confidently assess their ability to navigate the healthcare landscape and make the best choice for their well-being. The goal is to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure healthcare access is a priority.