11783, Seaford, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 11783, Seaford, New York is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.21 percent of residents in 11783 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chsli St Joseph Hospital with a distance of 3.33 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Seaford (ZIP Code 11783)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), efficient and reliable transportation is paramount. Accessing healthcare, particularly for routine appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency situations, can significantly impact quality of life. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding Seaford, New York (ZIP Code 11783), providing a COPD Score based on various modes of transportation and their accessibility. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Seaford or seeking to optimize their healthcare access within the area.

The foundation of any COPD Score begins with understanding the geographic layout. Seaford is a suburban community on Long Island, offering a blend of residential areas and commercial hubs. The primary arteries for transportation are the **Wantagh State Parkway** to the west, the **Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway (Route 135)** to the east, and **Sunrise Highway (Route 27)** running parallel to the south. These roadways are essential for accessing hospitals, specialist offices, and pulmonary rehabilitation centers.

Driving times are variable and dependent on traffic conditions. During peak hours, the **Wantagh State Parkway** and **Sunrise Highway** can experience significant congestion, particularly near the Meadowbrook State Parkway interchange. A trip to a major hospital like **St. Joseph Hospital** in Bethpage, approximately 8 miles away, might take 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours but could easily double during rush hour. Similarly, a journey to **South Nassau Communities Hospital** in Oceanside, about 10 miles away, could range from 25 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. The **Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway** generally offers a smoother ride, but its toll can be a factor.

Public transportation presents another layer to the COPD Score assessment. The **Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)** provides service to Seaford via the Babylon Branch. The Seaford station is centrally located and offers relatively frequent service to New York City and other Long Island destinations. However, the LIRR’s direct relevance to healthcare access within Seaford is limited. While it can facilitate travel to hospitals in Manhattan, such as **New York-Presbyterian Hospital**, the commute is lengthy and involves transfers.

The **Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE Bus)** system offers local bus routes within the county. Route N56 serves Seaford, connecting it to nearby towns like Massapequa and Amityville. The N56 route has stops near healthcare facilities, but the frequency of service and the potential for delays due to traffic are important considerations. The NICE Bus system is ADA-compliant, offering accessible features such as ramps and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, navigating bus routes can be challenging for those with COPD, especially during inclement weather or when carrying oxygen tanks.

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are readily available in Seaford. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments. Furthermore, ride-sharing reliability can be affected by driver availability and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation Services** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for individuals with COPD who require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, booking these services requires advance planning, and availability can be limited, especially during peak times.

The COPD Score for Seaford, considering the factors outlined above, is moderately favorable. While the area benefits from good road infrastructure and the availability of ride-sharing services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours present challenges. The LIRR offers limited direct access to local healthcare facilities. Public transportation via NICE Bus provides a viable option, but it requires careful planning and may not be ideal for all individuals with COPD. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net for those who need it.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Seaford, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the ability to navigate the local transportation landscape should be weighed against individual needs and preferences. A move to Seaford can be a positive step, but it's vital to ensure that healthcare access is readily available and easily manageable.

The COPD Score for Seaford is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs within a reasonable distance significantly enhances the overall score. Access to these resources minimizes travel time and reduces the burden on transportation resources.

Finally, the overall COPD Score is dynamic and subject to change. Infrastructure improvements, such as enhanced bus routes or expanded medical transportation services, can positively impact the score. Similarly, changes in traffic patterns or the availability of ride-sharing services can affect the overall assessment. Therefore, it's crucial to stay informed about local transportation developments and to adapt transportation strategies as needed to maintain optimal healthcare access.