11941, Eastport, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11941, Eastport, New York is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.00 percent of residents in 11941 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 6.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Eastport (ZIP Code 11941)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Eastport, New York (ZIP Code 11941), the journey to healthcare, a crucial component of survival and recovery, is often dictated by the vagaries of **transportation**. This write-up assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related services, factoring in drive times, public transit, and alternative **transportation** options, ultimately providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to inform residents and prospective newcomers considering **moving to Eastport**.

Eastport, a charming hamlet nestled on the south shore of Long Island, boasts a close-knit community. However, its relative remoteness presents challenges when it comes to specialized medical care. This analysis focuses on the accessibility of key breast cancer services: screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging (ultrasounds, MRIs), surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a qualitative assessment, considering the ease of access and the availability of various **transportation** options.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and out of Eastport are the Sunrise Highway (NY-27) and Montauk Highway (NY-27A). The Sunrise Highway, a limited-access highway, offers the quickest route to major medical centers, particularly those located further west. However, rush hour traffic, especially during the summer months, can significantly extend travel times. Montauk Highway, a more scenic but slower route, provides access to local hospitals and medical offices.

For residents of Eastport, the closest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Riverhead (Peconic Bay Medical Center), Southampton (Southampton Hospital), and Smithtown (Stony Brook University Hospital). Driving to Peconic Bay Medical Center via the Sunrise Highway typically takes 20-30 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Southampton Hospital, accessible via Montauk Highway, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Stony Brook University Hospital, a regional center for cancer care, requires a longer commute, typically 60-90 minutes via the Sunrise Highway.

The time commitment for these drives underscores the importance of reliable **transportation**. Delays due to traffic, especially during critical appointments, can cause considerable stress for patients and their families. Moreover, the cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance must be factored into the equation.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of the Suffolk County Transit**

Suffolk County Transit (SCT) offers public **transportation** options, but their utility for accessing specialized medical care in Eastport is limited. The primary bus routes serving Eastport are the S69 and S92. The S69 connects Eastport to Riverhead, offering a potential route to Peconic Bay Medical Center. However, the frequency of the buses is limited, and the journey can take over an hour, making it less than ideal for urgent appointments or those requiring multiple trips. The S92 provides service along Montauk Highway, offering access to Southampton Hospital, but again, the frequency and travel time are significant drawbacks.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the long travel times and potential for transfers can still pose challenges for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Digital Landscape**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Eastport area, offering a convenient, albeit potentially costly, **transportation** alternative. The availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly add up, especially for frequent appointments, and may not be covered by insurance.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, provide a more specialized option for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate medical equipment and caregivers. However, they are typically the most expensive option and may require prior arrangements and insurance pre-authorization.

**Medical Facilities and Services: The Healthcare Landscape**

The availability of breast cancer services within a reasonable distance is a critical factor. Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead offers a comprehensive breast health center, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, and surgical oncology. Southampton Hospital provides similar services, with a focus on community-based care. Stony Brook University Hospital offers a full spectrum of cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and clinical trials.

The proximity of these facilities, coupled with the **transportation** challenges, shapes the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Eastport. The longer commute times to Stony Brook, while offering the most comprehensive care, can be a significant burden. The availability of services at Peconic Bay and Southampton Hospitals, while closer, may require patients to navigate multiple facilities for different aspects of their care.

**Breast Cancer Score: An Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Eastport (ZIP Code 11941) is a **Moderate to Challenging**.

**Strengths:**

* Proximity to Peconic Bay Medical Center and Southampton Hospital, offering essential services.
* Availability of ride-sharing services as a supplemental **transportation** option.
* ADA-accessible Suffolk County Transit buses.

**Weaknesses:**

* Reliance on personal vehicles and the impact of traffic congestion on commute times.
* Limited frequency and long travel times on public transit.
* High cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.
* Longer commute to Stony Brook University Hospital for comprehensive care.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* Advocate for increased public transit frequency and expanded routes, particularly to medical centers.
* Explore the potential for community-based **transportation** programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
* Encourage partnerships between local hospitals and ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments.
* Promote awareness of available resources and support services for breast cancer patients in the Eastport area.

For individuals considering **moving to Eastport**, understanding these **transportation** and healthcare access factors is crucial. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the journey to comprehensive breast cancer care requires careful planning and consideration of the available options. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve access to care and support the health and well-being of Eastport residents.