11738, Farmingville, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11738, Farmingville, New York is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.57 percent of residents in 11738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 5.08 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Farmingville (ZIP Code 11738)

Farmingville, New York, nestled within the embrace of Suffolk County, presents a unique tapestry of suburban life. For those considering a move to this Long Island community, or already residing within its borders, understanding the nuances of healthcare access, particularly for managing conditions like hypertension, is crucial. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 11738, evaluating its impact on the ability to reach essential healthcare services and providing a "Hypertension Score" to gauge the ease of access for residents. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities.

The cornerstone of this analysis rests upon the premise that timely and reliable access to healthcare is paramount, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and medication adherence, making proximity to medical facilities a critical factor in patient well-being. This assessment focuses on the practicalities of getting to appointments, filling prescriptions, and accessing emergency care within and around Farmingville.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries of transportation in Farmingville are the Long Island Expressway (LIE) – Interstate 495 – and the William Floyd Parkway. The LIE, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist offices in both directions. However, peak-hour congestion can significantly extend travel times. A drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, can range from 20 minutes during off-peak hours to over an hour during rush hour, depending on traffic conditions on the LIE.

The William Floyd Parkway provides a more direct north-south route, offering access to local medical facilities and connecting to Sunrise Highway (NY-27). Travel times to nearby urgent care centers and primary care physicians are generally shorter, often within a 10-15 minute drive. However, relying solely on the Parkway can limit access to specialized care located further afield.

Local roads like Horseblock Road and Portion Road serve as crucial connectors, but their traffic flow can be unpredictable. Navigating these roads during school hours or peak shopping times can add significant delays to any healthcare-related journey. The overall drive time assessment suggests a moderate level of accessibility, with the LIE acting as both a facilitator and a potential bottleneck.

**Public Transit Challenges and Opportunities:**

The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system provides public transportation within Farmingville and the surrounding areas. Several bus routes, including S61, S63, and S66, serve the area, offering connections to major hospitals and medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals who rely on public transit for their healthcare needs, especially those with mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the proximity of bus stops to medical facilities can vary. The overall reliance on public transit presents a mixed picture, with accessibility improvements needed to better serve the needs of the community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Farmingville, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The availability of ride-sharing also depends on driver availability, which can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like Ambulette and SeniorCare, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door assistance and are often equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be costly and may require advance booking, which can be a logistical hurdle.

**Hypertension Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors above, we assign a "Hypertension Score" of **6 out of 10** for residents of Farmingville (ZIP code 11738). This score reflects the following:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate, with potential for significant delays during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Limited frequency and potential accessibility challenges.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Available but can be expensive and subject to driver availability.
* **Medical Transportation:** Available but requires advance booking and can be costly.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Advocate for increased frequency and expanded routes of SCT buses, particularly during evenings and weekends.** This will improve accessibility for those who rely on public transit.
* **Promote the availability of subsidized ride-sharing programs for low-income individuals and seniors.** This would help to mitigate the cost barrier associated with ride-sharing services.
* **Expand awareness of medical transportation services and explore options for financial assistance for those who need them.** This can help to ensure that individuals with mobility challenges have access to essential healthcare services.
* **Encourage the development of telehealth services and remote monitoring programs to reduce the need for in-person appointments.** This could be particularly beneficial for individuals managing hypertension.
* **Explore opportunities to improve traffic flow on major roadways, such as the LIE and William Floyd Parkway, to reduce drive times.** This could involve traffic signal optimization or other infrastructure improvements.

For those contemplating moving to Farmingville, or already residing there, this score offers a realistic perspective on the transportation landscape and its influence on healthcare access. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare management and overall quality of life. The ongoing evolution of transportation options, coupled with community initiatives, can significantly enhance the "Hypertension Score" and ensure that all residents have the ability to access the healthcare they require. This assessment underscores the importance of proactive measures to improve healthcare access and contribute to the well-being of the Farmingville community.