11719, Brookhaven, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11719, Brookhaven, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.71 percent of residents in 11719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 3.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brookhaven (ZIP Code 11719)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates seamless healthcare access. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within Brookhaven, New York (ZIP Code 11719), evaluating its impact on individuals seeking timely medical attention, specifically those managing hypertension. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this Long Island community. This information is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Brookhaven, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare accessibility.

Living with hypertension demands consistent monitoring and prompt medical intervention. The ability to swiftly reach healthcare providers is paramount. Brookhaven, a sprawling town, presents varied transportation challenges. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the **Long Island Expressway (LIE) - I-495**, **Sunrise Highway - NY-27**, and **William Floyd Parkway - CR 46**. These highways are the lifelines for residents, connecting them to hospitals, clinics, and specialists. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, adding stress and potentially delaying critical care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in and around 11719 vary depending on location and time of day. From central Brookhaven, reaching **Long Island Community Hospital** in East Patchogue, a major healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, contingent on traffic on the LIE and Sunrise Highway. Similarly, accessing **Stony Brook University Hospital**, a regional medical center, can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, heavily influenced by traffic on the LIE and the **Nicolls Road** corridor.

Public transportation offers an alternative, yet its accessibility can be limited. The **Suffolk County Transit** system provides bus routes serving Brookhaven. Route 6A, 6B, and 6C are key routes that run along **Montauk Highway** and **William Floyd Parkway**. While these buses offer a cost-effective option, their frequency and coverage can be insufficient, especially for residents in more remote areas. Furthermore, the reliance on bus schedules can be challenging for urgent medical needs.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. Suffolk County Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall route coverage might pose challenges for some residents. Careful planning and pre-arranged transportation may be necessary for those requiring ADA-compliant services.

Ride-sharing services, like **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in Brookhaven, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Moreover, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas, potentially delaying access to care.

Medical transportation services specifically cater to individuals with healthcare needs. **Care Ride** and **Medicaid Transportation** are among the providers offering non-emergency medical transportation in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Eligibility requirements and pre-booking are typically necessary, making them suitable for scheduled appointments rather than urgent situations.

The geography of Brookhaven, with its vastness and varying levels of population density, creates disparities in healthcare access. Residents living closer to major roadways and transportation hubs generally enjoy better access to healthcare facilities. However, individuals residing in more rural areas may face longer drive times and limited public transportation options. This disparity underscores the importance of considering transportation accessibility when making healthcare decisions or choosing a place to live.

The impact of transportation on hypertension management extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It also affects medication adherence, access to preventative care, and overall well-being. Individuals facing transportation challenges may be less likely to attend regular check-ups, fill prescriptions on time, or participate in health-promoting activities. This can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

When considering moving to Brookhaven, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs. Evaluating the proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of public transportation, and the feasibility of using ride-sharing services is crucial. Understanding the potential drive times during peak hours and the limitations of public transit can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

In summary, the transportation landscape in Brookhaven, NY (11719) presents a mixed bag for individuals managing hypertension. While major roadways offer relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. Public transportation, while available, may not always be convenient or reliable. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offer alternative solutions, but they come with their own limitations. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for residents and those considering moving to Brookhaven, ensuring they can effectively manage their health and access the care they need.