11716, Bohemia, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11716, Bohemia, New York is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.88 percent of residents in 11716 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 6.91 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bohemia, NY (ZIP Code 11716)

Bohemia, New York, a vibrant community nestled in the heart of Suffolk County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to essential services. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of access to healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 11716, focusing on its impact on healthcare access, specifically for individuals with hypertension. We will explore drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment for this community.

The ability to promptly and reliably reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care significantly impacts the health outcomes of individuals with hypertension. This score considers the various transportation modalities available, their accessibility, and their potential challenges, offering a nuanced understanding of the healthcare access landscape for residents of Bohemia. The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive analysis of the factors influencing healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

For many Bohemia residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. Driving times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. The Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495, serves as the major east-west artery, providing access to hospitals and medical centers located further west, such as those in Smithtown and Stony Brook.

Traveling west on the LIE, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can be a time-consuming endeavor. Expect drive times to major hospitals like Stony Brook University Hospital to range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Conversely, the Sunrise Highway (NY-27) offers a more direct route to healthcare facilities located south of Bohemia, such as those in Bay Shore and Islip. Drive times along Sunrise Highway are generally shorter, typically 15 to 30 minutes, but can still be affected by rush-hour congestion.

Local roads, including Veterans Memorial Highway and Smithtown Avenue, provide access to smaller medical practices and urgent care centers within Bohemia and neighboring communities. These roads are generally less congested than the LIE, offering shorter travel times. However, their availability of services might be limited compared to larger hospitals.

**Public Transportation: A Network of Opportunities and Challenges**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a crucial public transportation option for Bohemia residents. The Ronkonkoma station, located a short drive from Bohemia, provides access to trains traveling to Manhattan, which also connects to hospitals and medical facilities in New York City. The LIRR offers a reliable and often faster alternative to driving, especially during peak hours. However, the journey to Manhattan can still take upwards of an hour, not including the commute to the station.

Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides local bus service within Bohemia and the surrounding areas. Bus routes, such as S58 and S61, connect Bohemia to nearby towns and healthcare facilities. While SCT offers a cost-effective transportation option, bus schedules and limited route coverage can present challenges for individuals with hypertension, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. The LIRR and SCT are mandated to provide accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the availability of accessible features on all buses and trains, and the overall ease of navigating the public transportation system, can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving and public transportation. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and other essential destinations. However, ride-sharing availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours and in areas with limited service.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. These services, often offered by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers, provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Medical transport services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journeys.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for Bohemia, NY (11716) reflects a mixed picture. While the community benefits from the presence of major roadways, public transportation, and ride-sharing options, challenges remain. Traffic congestion on the LIE and Sunrise Highway can significantly impact drive times, particularly during peak hours. The LIRR offers a reliable alternative, but the commute to Manhattan and the availability of local bus routes can be a concern.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional flexibility, but their cost and availability can be a barrier for some residents. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of considering all transportation options when assessing healthcare access in Bohemia.

**Moving to Bohemia and Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Bohemia, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents with hypertension should carefully evaluate the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact of traffic and public transportation schedules on their ability to access medical care.

Living in Bohemia offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, but residents must proactively plan for their healthcare transportation needs. Researching local medical practices, assessing the accessibility of public transportation, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can help ensure that individuals with hypertension can maintain their health and well-being within this vibrant community. The "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of informed decision-making when choosing a place to live, especially for those with specific healthcare needs.