11780, Saint James, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11780, Saint James, New York is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.57 percent of residents in 11780 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Suny/Stony Brook University Hospital with a distance of 3.23 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Saint James, NY (ZIP Code 11780)**

Considering a move to the charming community of Saint James, New York (ZIP Code 11780)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and friendly atmosphere, a crucial factor in your decision-making should be access to quality healthcare, particularly concerning breast cancer screening and treatment. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a personalized assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, especially for those facing the challenges of breast cancer.

The foundation of our score lies in understanding the practicalities of getting to vital medical appointments. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all while considering the specific needs of individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. This is about more than just distance; it's about the ease, reliability, and emotional toll of getting to and from appointments.

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

For residents of Saint James, the automobile is often the primary mode of transportation. The good news is that several excellent healthcare facilities are within reasonable driving distance. However, rush hour traffic, construction, and unforeseen delays can significantly impact travel times, especially for those undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

Heading east from Saint James, the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) is a major artery. Reaching Stony Brook University Hospital, a comprehensive cancer center, typically takes around 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey involves navigating the LIE, then exiting onto Nicolls Road (Route 97). This route is generally straightforward, but during peak hours, congestion on the LIE can be substantial, adding significant time to the commute.

Traveling west, towards Smithtown and beyond, offers access to additional healthcare options. St. Catherine of Siena Hospital in Smithtown is a shorter drive, usually taking about 10 to 15 minutes via Route 25A (North Country Road) or the more direct, but often congested, Route 347 (Nesconset Highway). The choice of route will depend on traffic conditions and personal preference.

Further west, in Hauppauge, is the John T. Mather Memorial Hospital. This journey usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This involves using Route 347 and then the LIE. This may be a viable option for those who prefer a different hospital setting or are looking for specialized services.

The Breast Cancer Score considers these drive times, factoring in potential delays and the physical toll of driving, especially for those undergoing treatment. Factors such as the availability of parking and the ease of navigating hospital campuses are also incorporated.

**Public Transit: A Viable Alternative?**

For those who prefer or require public transportation, the options are more limited but still present. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers service from the Saint James station. However, the train does not directly serve most hospitals. You'll need to transfer to a bus or utilize ride-sharing services to reach your final destination.

The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) bus system provides local service. Several routes, including the S58 and S60, serve areas around Saint James. These routes can connect you to hospitals and medical facilities, but the travel times are significantly longer than driving. The S58, for example, can provide access to Stony Brook University Hospital. The S60 can provide access to Smithtown.

It's crucial to note that the SCT system offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the frequency of buses, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited. Furthermore, the need for transfers can increase travel time and complexity.

The Breast Cancer Score assesses the practicality of public transit, considering factors such as the frequency of service, the accessibility of stations and buses, and the overall travel time. The score also accounts for the potential for delays and the need for transfers, which can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Expanding the Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for parking and reducing the stress of driving. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide assistance with mobility and can be particularly helpful for patients with physical limitations. These companies may offer specialized vehicles equipped with lifts or ramps, as well as trained drivers who can provide assistance.

The Breast Cancer Score evaluates the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The score also considers the convenience and reliability of these options, as well as their ability to accommodate the specific needs of individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.

**Calculating the Breast Cancer Score**

The Breast Cancer Score is a composite metric that considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Major Healthcare Facilities:** The average drive time to hospitals and cancer centers, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Availability:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies and Support Services:** The distance to pharmacies, support groups, and other resources.

Each factor is weighted based on its importance to healthcare access. The final score is presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare. The score is designed to provide a personalized assessment of healthcare access in Saint James, helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Moving to Saint James, NY (ZIP Code 11780) offers a lifestyle. However, it's essential to consider healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the transportation options available and their impact on healthcare access. By understanding the drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This detailed analysis empowers you to navigate the complexities of healthcare access and make the best choices for your well-being.