11577, Roslyn Heights, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11577, Roslyn Heights, New York is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.95 percent of residents in 11577 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital - The Heart Center with a distance of 2.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Roslyn Heights (ZIP Code 11577)

The allure of Roslyn Heights, nestled within the embrace of Nassau County's North Shore, is undeniable. Tree-lined streets, well-regarded schools, and a sense of community beckon those seeking a tranquil suburban haven. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the equation of "moving to Roslyn Heights" demands careful consideration. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options crucial for managing this chronic condition. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" to aid in informed decision-making.

The primary concern for residents of Roslyn Heights, particularly those with hypertension, is consistent and timely access to medical appointments. This necessitates a robust transportation network, capable of navigating the complexities of Long Island's traffic patterns. The reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. The main arteries for reaching healthcare facilities are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495), the Northern State Parkway, and the Jericho Turnpike (Route 25).

Driving times, however, can vary dramatically. During peak hours, the LIE can transform into a parking lot, potentially extending a 15-minute drive to a critical appointment to over an hour. The Northern State Parkway, while often less congested, is also susceptible to delays, especially near major interchanges. Jericho Turnpike, a more local route, offers a slower but often more predictable alternative. For residents of Roslyn Heights, the proximity to hospitals and specialized clinics is a significant factor.

North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, a major healthcare provider, is a relatively short drive, typically reachable within 10-15 minutes under optimal traffic conditions. St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center in Roslyn is also a viable option, offering specialized cardiac care. The drive to St. Francis is generally shorter, often under 10 minutes. Further afield, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island in Mineola is a 15-20 minute drive, providing a broader range of medical services. The crucial aspect of transportation is the ability to arrive at these facilities promptly, especially during acute episodes.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of considerations. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides service to the Roslyn station, but the station is approximately a mile from the town center. This requires a walk, taxi, or ride-share to reach the residential areas and healthcare facilities. The LIRR’s Port Washington Branch is the primary rail line serving the area.

Once at a station, the LIRR provides access to New York City and other areas, but the frequency of trains and the need for transfers can add significant time to the commute. Furthermore, the accessibility of the LIRR stations and trains is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and elevators, are essential for ensuring equal access. The Roslyn station has some ADA features, but it is essential to confirm the specific needs of an individual before relying on this mode of transportation.

Bus service, provided by the Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE), offers a more localized transportation option. Several NICE bus routes serve Roslyn Heights, including the N23 and N27, which connect to nearby towns and healthcare facilities. However, bus routes are often less frequent than rail services, and the travel times can be significantly longer due to traffic and multiple stops. The N23 route, for example, travels along Northern Boulevard, providing access to various medical offices and facilities.

The ADA compliance of NICE buses is a crucial factor. All NICE buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the ease of boarding and disembarking can vary depending on the specific bus and the route.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These services offer a convenient and often cost-effective alternative to driving or using public transportation. In Roslyn Heights, ride-sharing is readily available, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments and other destinations. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern, as availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. Companies like Ambulette and other medical transport providers operate in the area, offering services for appointments, dialysis, and other medical needs. These services can be expensive, but they offer a level of convenience and support that is often unmatched by other transportation options.

The availability of these services and their ability to meet the specific needs of an individual are crucial considerations. The cost of medical transportation services can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the specific provider.

Considering all these factors, we can assign a "Hypertension Score" to assess the ease of healthcare access in Roslyn Heights. This score will be based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 5 representing the easiest access.

**Hypertension Score Breakdown:**

* **Drive Time:** 3 (Due to traffic congestion on major highways)
* **Public Transit:** 2 (Limited frequency and potential accessibility issues)
* **Ride-Share Availability:** 4 (Readily available but cost-dependent)
* **Medical Transport:** 3 (Available but can be expensive)
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** 4 (Good access to hospitals and specialized clinics)

**Overall Hypertension Score for Roslyn Heights (ZIP Code 11577): 3.2**

This score indicates that while Roslyn Heights offers good access to healthcare facilities, transportation challenges, particularly during peak hours, can impact the ease of access for individuals with hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays are significant concerns. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, the cost and availability of these services must be considered.

For individuals considering "moving to Roslyn Heights" and managing hypertension, careful planning is essential. This includes:

* **Strategic Appointment Scheduling:** Scheduling appointments outside of peak traffic hours.
* **Exploring Public Transit Options:** Familiarizing oneself with LIRR and NICE bus routes.
* **Establishing Ride-Share and Medical Transport Contacts:** Having pre-arranged transportation options.
* **Considering Proximity to Medical Facilities:** Choosing a residence within close proximity to healthcare providers.
* **Advocating for Improved Transportation Infrastructure:** Supporting initiatives that improve traffic flow and public transit.

Ultimately, the ability to successfully manage hypertension in Roslyn Heights depends on a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the timely and consistent care they need. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a starting point for this critical assessment, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness in navigating the complexities of healthcare access in this desirable suburban community.