11710, Bellmore, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11710, Bellmore, New York is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.28 percent of residents in 11710 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nassau University Medical Center with a distance of 3.53 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bellmore (ZIP Code 11710)

Bellmore, New York, a charming hamlet nestled on Long Island's South Shore, offers a desirable suburban lifestyle. However, when considering a move to this community, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of healthcare access becomes paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment for residents of ZIP code 11710, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for consistent medical care.

The foundation of this score lies in the principle that timely and reliable transportation directly impacts a patient's ability to adhere to prescribed treatments and maintain their health. For those managing hypertension, consistent access to physicians, pharmacies, and diagnostic services is not merely convenient; it is life-sustaining. This assessment considers various transportation modalities, their accessibility, and their overall efficiency in reaching essential healthcare providers.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

Bellmore's primary roadways dictate the ease of access to medical facilities. The **Wantagh State Parkway** provides a swift north-south artery, connecting Bellmore to major hospitals and medical centers. However, peak traffic, especially during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend drive times. The **Sunrise Highway (Route 27)**, another critical thoroughfare, offers east-west connectivity, but its congested nature often presents a challenge.

Driving to the closest hospitals, such as **Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre** (approximately 7 miles) via the Wantagh Parkway, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. **South Nassau Communities Hospital in Oceanside** (around 5 miles) can be reached in 10-20 minutes, utilizing the same parkway. Further afield, **St. Joseph Hospital in Bethpage** (about 10 miles) presents a drive of 20-35 minutes, depending on the route and traffic. These drive times, while generally manageable, necessitate careful planning, particularly for those with mobility limitations or during inclement weather.

Navigating local roads, such as **Bellmore Avenue** and **Jerusalem Avenue**, requires careful attention to traffic signals and potential congestion. These roads provide access to local medical offices and pharmacies, often reducing travel times for routine appointments and medication refills. However, these routes also experience significant traffic during peak hours, potentially increasing stress levels for those with hypertension.

**Public Transit: Navigating the LIRR and Bus Routes**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a crucial alternative to driving, particularly for those seeking to avoid traffic congestion. The **Bellmore Station** provides direct access to Manhattan and other Long Island destinations. While the LIRR itself is generally reliable, the walk from the station to medical facilities can be a factor, especially for individuals with mobility issues.

Bus transportation, provided by the **Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE)**, offers a more localized network. Several bus routes serve Bellmore, including the **N15, N16, and N19**. These routes provide connections to nearby towns and medical facilities. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, and the frequency of service may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a crucial aspect of public transit accessibility. NICE buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stations and the ease of navigating transfers should be carefully considered when evaluating public transit options for individuals with hypertension.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services are readily available in Bellmore and can be particularly useful for urgent medical appointments or when other transportation options are unavailable. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, and availability may be limited during peak demand.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **AmbuRide**, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles, making them a valuable option for individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have specific geographic limitations.

**Pharmacy Access: A Crucial Component**

Access to pharmacies for medication refills is a vital aspect of managing hypertension. Bellmore boasts several pharmacies, including **CVS, Walgreens, and independent pharmacies**. These pharmacies offer convenient locations and often provide delivery services, further enhancing medication access. The proximity of pharmacies to residences and medical offices is a key consideration for individuals managing hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The 'Hypertension Score' for Bellmore (ZIP code 11710) is not a single number but rather a multifaceted evaluation. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to hospitals, medical centers, and pharmacies, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Availability, frequency, and ADA compliance of LIRR and NICE bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Proximity of pharmacies, availability of delivery services, and ease of medication refills.

The overall score would reflect the ease and reliability of accessing essential healthcare services, considering the diverse transportation options available. While Bellmore offers a generally favorable environment for healthcare access, potential residents should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when evaluating transportation options.

**Moving to Bellmore: A Personalized Approach**

For individuals considering moving to Bellmore and managing hypertension, a personalized approach is essential. Before making a decision, potential residents should:

* **Assess their mobility and transportation needs.**
* **Research the proximity of healthcare providers and pharmacies to their desired residence.**
* **Familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services.**
* **Consider the cost and convenience of each transportation modality.**

By conducting thorough research and carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about moving to Bellmore and ensure they have reliable access to the healthcare services they need to maintain their health. This comprehensive assessment ensures a smooth transition for those prioritizing their well-being in their new community.