11764, Miller Place, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11764, Miller Place, New York is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.79 percent of residents in 11764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is John T Mather Memorial Hospital Of Port Jefferson with a distance of 2.18 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Miller Place (ZIP Code 11764)

The quiet charm of Miller Place, nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, offers a desirable quality of life. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of accessing vital healthcare services is a critical consideration. This write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options in ZIP code 11764, evaluating their impact on healthcare access and ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" – a practical assessment of how readily residents can receive necessary medical attention. This is especially important for those considering moving to Miller Place.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access stems from the geographic realities of Long Island. Miller Place, while seemingly close to various healthcare facilities, is often separated by significant distances and traffic congestion. The "Hypertension Score" will weigh these factors, providing a realistic picture of the daily commute to manage a chronic condition.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the cornerstone of transportation. In Miller Place, the primary arteries for reaching healthcare facilities are the William Floyd Parkway (County Road 46) and Route 25A (North Country Road). The William Floyd Parkway offers a more direct, albeit often congested, route south towards Brookhaven and the Long Island Expressway (I-495), providing access to hospitals like Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue.

Route 25A, a scenic but slower option, winds west towards Port Jefferson and east towards Wading River. This route offers access to smaller medical practices and urgent care facilities, but the drive can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours. The condition of these roads, the presence of traffic lights, and the overall volume of vehicles all contribute to the stress and time associated with each healthcare visit.

Drive times are variable. A trip to a specialist in Smithtown, a common destination for specialized care, could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic on Route 25A. A journey to a hospital in Patchogue, via the William Floyd Parkway, could stretch to 45 minutes or more. These times are crucial for someone with hypertension, where timely access to medication refills, check-ups, and emergency care is paramount.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The public transportation landscape in Miller Place presents a significant challenge. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and often lack direct connections to major healthcare facilities. Bus route S60, for example, travels along Route 25A, offering a limited connection to the Port Jefferson LIRR station. From there, a train ride to New York City provides access to a greater number of hospitals, but the total commute time is substantial.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. While SCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and ramps, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can be problematic. This is especially relevant for individuals with mobility limitations, who may find the commute to healthcare facilities exceedingly difficult. The infrequent service and lengthy travel times make public transportation a less viable option for many residents managing hypertension.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services in Miller Place can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially adding a financial burden to the already stressful experience of managing a chronic condition.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service and may be equipped to handle medical equipment. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may be limited. The availability of these services and the ease of scheduling appointments are crucial considerations.

**The "Hypertension Score" – A Composite Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Miller Place (ZIP code 11764) will be a composite metric, reflecting the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on transportation options. It will consider the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to hospitals, specialist offices, and pharmacies, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** Frequency of bus service, accessibility features, and overall travel time.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Reliability of ride-sharing services and associated costs.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Essential Services:** Distance to pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and primary care physicians.

A higher score would indicate better access to healthcare, reflecting shorter travel times, more reliable public transit options, and readily available ride-sharing or medical transport services. A lower score would indicate greater challenges in accessing healthcare, potentially leading to delays in treatment, increased stress, and a diminished quality of life.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For residents of Miller Place managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a practical guide. It highlights the importance of planning ahead, considering traffic conditions, and exploring all available transportation options. This is especially crucial for those without personal vehicles or those who may be unable to drive due to medical conditions.

For individuals considering moving to Miller Place, the "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable insight into the realities of healthcare access. It underscores the importance of evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential challenges associated with managing a chronic condition in this location. The score can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have adequate access to the services they require.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" is more than just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, residents of Miller Place can proactively address the challenges and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate medical attention they deserve. The ongoing development of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options are all vital factors in improving the "Hypertension Score" and fostering a healthier community. For those moving to Miller Place, a careful consideration of these factors is essential for a smooth transition and continued well-being.