11721, Centerport, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11721, Centerport, New York is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.40 percent of residents in 11721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ns/Lij Hs Huntington Hospital with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Centerport (ZIP Code 11721)**

Centerport, a charming hamlet nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, residents, especially those managing hypertension, must consider healthcare access when evaluating their living options. This analysis examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 11721, focusing on its impact on healthcare access, particularly for individuals with hypertension.

The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical appointments is crucial for managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care necessitate efficient transportation options. This score evaluates the availability and convenience of various modes of transportation, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in Centerport.

**Driving the Distance:**

For many Centerport residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The ease of driving to healthcare facilities significantly impacts the hypertension score. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the **Sunken Meadow State Parkway** and **Route 25A**.

Driving to Huntington Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from Centerport typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak hours, particularly weekdays, the drive can extend, potentially adding stress for individuals with hypertension. The **Sunken Meadow State Parkway** offers a direct route, but congestion can be a factor.

Other healthcare options, such as Northwell Health Physician Partners in Huntington, are also accessible via these routes. The time to these facilities varies, but generally, they are within a 20-minute drive.

**Public Transit Navigation:**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a public transit option, but its direct impact on healthcare access in Centerport is limited. The closest LIRR station is in Huntington, requiring a car or ride-share to reach from Centerport. From the Huntington station, commuters can access healthcare facilities in Huntington and beyond.

Suffolk County Transit offers bus routes that serve Centerport. The S20 and S29 buses offer limited service, but are not ideal for frequent healthcare appointments. They do offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the frequency and route coverage may not be sufficient for timely healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing urgent care. The bus system is a viable option for those without a car, but requires careful planning and may add significant travel time.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Centerport, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. These services provide flexibility, but costs can accumulate, especially with frequent appointments. The availability of these services is generally reliable, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can be a concern.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as MedRide and Access-A-Ride, cater to individuals with specific needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for urgent appointments. The need to book in advance adds another layer of complexity for those managing hypertension.

**Evaluating the Score:**

The hypertension score for Centerport reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is generally good, relying solely on personal vehicles presents potential challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact travel times and potentially increase stress levels.

Public transit options are available, but their limited frequency and route coverage make them less than ideal for frequent healthcare visits. Ride-sharing services offer flexibility, but cost and availability remain factors. Medical transportation services cater to specific needs but require advance planning.

**Factors Affecting the Score:**

Several factors influence the hypertension score. These include:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices is a primary consideration.
* **Transportation Options:** The availability and convenience of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services are crucial.
* **Traffic Congestion:** Peak-hour traffic can significantly impact travel times, adding stress and potentially delaying appointments.
* **Accessibility:** The accessibility of transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations is essential.
* **Cost:** The cost of transportation, including gas, tolls, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services, is a factor.
* **Frequency of Appointments:** Individuals requiring frequent appointments, such as those managing hypertension, need reliable and convenient transportation.

**Healthcare Access for Those Moving to Centerport:**

For individuals considering moving to Centerport, healthcare access is a critical factor. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, prospective residents with hypertension should carefully assess the transportation options available.

Prioritizing locations with easy access to the **Sunken Meadow State Parkway** or **Route 25A** is advisable for those who drive. Researching the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options is also essential.

Understanding the limitations of public transit and planning for potential delays due to traffic congestion are crucial. Furthermore, individuals should consider the proximity to pharmacies and other healthcare-related services.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the hypertension score for Centerport, several recommendations can be considered.

* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Increased bus frequency and expanded route coverage could enhance healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Encouraging the use of ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with local healthcare providers could improve accessibility.
* **Support Medical Transportation Services:** Facilitating access to medical transportation services and ensuring their availability for urgent appointments is essential.
* **Educate Residents:** Providing information about available transportation options and healthcare resources can empower residents to make informed choices.
* **Promote Walkability and Bikeability:** Encouraging walking and biking within the community can reduce reliance on vehicles for short trips.

**Conclusion:**

The hypertension score for Centerport reflects a community with both strengths and weaknesses regarding healthcare access. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is generally good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges.

By carefully considering the transportation landscape, individuals with hypertension can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Proactive measures, such as advocating for improved public transit, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting medical transportation services, can enhance healthcare access and improve the overall quality of life for Centerport residents.