11754, Kings Park, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11754, Kings Park, New York is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.73 percent of residents in 11754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Catherine Of Siena Hospital with a distance of 2.01 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kings Park (ZIP Code 11754)

Kings Park, a charming hamlet nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, offers a desirable suburban lifestyle. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of accessing vital healthcare services is a critical consideration. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 11754, evaluating the practicalities of reaching medical appointments and pharmacies. This information is particularly pertinent for individuals contemplating moving to Kings Park, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The score considers various modes of transportation, including private vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing services, as well as medical transport options. It assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the potential for delays, and the overall convenience of navigating the area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities that Kings Park residents face when managing their hypertension.

**The Road Ahead: Driving to Healthcare**

For many Kings Park residents, the personal automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The major arteries serving the area are the **Sunken Meadow State Parkway** and **Route 25A (Northport Road)**. The Sunken Meadow Parkway, a scenic route, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers located further west, such as those in Smithtown and Hauppauge. However, during peak hours, especially weekday mornings and evenings, the parkway can become heavily congested, significantly increasing travel times.

Route 25A, a more local thoroughfare, provides direct access to various medical offices and pharmacies within Kings Park and neighboring towns. While less prone to major traffic jams than the parkway, Route 25A can experience delays, particularly near intersections and during school drop-off and pick-up times. The average drive time to a primary care physician within Kings Park is generally under 10 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, might necessitate travel to facilities further afield, potentially extending drive times to 20-30 minutes or more, especially during rush hour.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Suffolk County Bus System**

The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) bus system provides public transportation options for Kings Park residents. Several bus routes serve the area, including the **SCT S58** and **S92**, offering connections to nearby towns and transportation hubs. The S58 route runs along Route 25A, providing access to various medical facilities and pharmacies. The S92 route connects Kings Park to the Smithtown Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station, which offers train service to New York City and other Long Island destinations.

While the SCT bus system provides a vital service, it presents certain challenges for individuals with hypertension. Bus schedules may not always align with medical appointment times, potentially leading to delays or the need to arrive at appointments significantly early. Furthermore, the frequency of bus service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited, impacting healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. All SCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to ensure accessibility. However, the availability of accessible bus stops and the physical distance between bus stops and medical facilities can pose challenges for some individuals.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative for Kings Park residents. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or personal vehicles. Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive or who prefer not to drive.

However, ride-sharing services are subject to availability and pricing fluctuations. During peak hours or inclement weather, surge pricing can significantly increase the cost of a ride. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services can vary, potentially leading to delays or cancellations.

Medical transportation services, such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Care Ride**, offer specialized transportation options for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Medical transportation services are often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option for some individuals. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limitations on the distance they serve.

**Healthcare Access: Mapping the Medical Landscape**

The availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities are crucial factors in the Hypertension Score. Kings Park boasts several primary care physicians, pharmacies, and urgent care centers. However, specialized medical care, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and nephrology, may necessitate travel to hospitals or medical centers in neighboring towns.

The **Stony Brook University Hospital**, a major regional medical center, is located approximately 20-30 minutes away by car, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including specialized care for hypertension and related conditions. Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance include **John T. Mather Memorial Hospital** in Port Jefferson and **Southside Hospital** in Bay Shore.

Pharmacies are readily accessible within Kings Park, including national chains and local pharmacies. This proximity ensures convenient access to prescription medications and other healthcare products.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Kings Park (ZIP code 11754) reflects a mixed picture. The area offers relatively good access to primary care physicians and pharmacies. However, access to specialized medical care may require longer travel times, particularly during peak hours. Public transit options are available but may not always be convenient or reliable. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation offer alternative solutions, but they are subject to various limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Kings Park, particularly those with hypertension, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The availability of a personal vehicle is a significant advantage. However, residents should also familiarize themselves with public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers.

The overall score suggests that Kings Park offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, but careful planning and consideration of transportation options are necessary to ensure convenient and timely access to medical care. This analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Kings Park, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.