11934, Center Moriches, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11934, Center Moriches, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.26 percent of residents in 11934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 10.63 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 11934

Considering a move to the charming seaside community of Center Moriches, New York, ZIP code 11934? This analysis delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension, a prevalent condition demanding consistent medical attention. This "Hypertension Score" considers the complexities of transportation, crucial for timely appointments and medication refills, offering a comprehensive perspective for prospective residents.

Center Moriches, nestled on the south shore of Long Island, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The community's relative isolation, coupled with its reliance on car-based transportation, shapes the landscape. Evaluating healthcare access requires understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their respective limitations. We'll examine drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare**

The primary mode of transportation in 11934 is the personal vehicle. Interstate 495, commonly known as the Long Island Expressway (LIE), serves as the major east-west artery, connecting Center Moriches to hospitals and medical facilities further west. However, the LIE is notorious for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Driving west towards major hospitals like Stony Brook University Hospital, or even closer facilities in Patchogue, can easily exceed 45 minutes during rush hour.

Local roadways, such as Montauk Highway (Route 27A), offer alternative routes, though they are often slower due to traffic lights and residential areas. The Sunrise Highway (Route 27) provides another option, running parallel to the LIE, but it can also experience significant delays. Navigating these roadways requires careful planning, considering potential traffic bottlenecks and the urgency of medical appointments. For individuals with hypertension, timely access to care is paramount, making reliable transportation a critical factor.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides public transportation options in 11934, but its network is limited. The primary routes serving the area are the S63 and S66. These buses operate along Montauk Highway and generally connect Center Moriches to neighboring towns like Patchogue and Mastic. However, these routes are infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends, making them unreliable for urgent medical needs.

Furthermore, accessibility is a concern. While SCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, the limited frequency and potential for delays can pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues, which can be common among those with hypertension. The need to transfer between routes to reach more distant healthcare facilities further complicates the journey. Reliance on public transit for healthcare access in 11934 requires significant planning and flexibility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 11934, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing fares can also be expensive, potentially creating a financial burden for individuals with limited incomes, a factor that can impact healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Services of Long Island and First Choice Medical Transportation operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medication management. However, they can be costly, and advance booking is usually required, potentially limiting their usefulness for urgent appointments.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score: A Holistic View**

The "Hypertension Score" for 11934 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors and their impact on healthcare access. The score considers the drive times to hospitals and medical facilities, the reliability of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport.

A low score indicates significant challenges in accessing timely and affordable healthcare. A high score suggests easier access, with multiple transportation options available. The score will also consider the availability of local pharmacies for medication refills and the presence of primary care physicians and specialists in the immediate area.

For individuals managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" is a critical consideration. The ability to quickly access medical care for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and potential emergencies is vital for managing this chronic condition. The score highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive measures to ensure consistent healthcare access.

**Implications for Moving to Center Moriches**

For those considering moving to Center Moriches, the "Hypertension Score" provides valuable insights. Individuals with hypertension should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare preferences. Factors to consider include the availability of reliable transportation, the proximity of medical facilities, and the cost of accessing care.

If you are moving to Center Moriches, it is advisable to research the availability of healthcare providers in the area, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies. Consider the feasibility of using public transit, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. Assess the potential for traffic delays on the LIE and other roadways.

The "Hypertension Score" is not simply a numerical rating; it is a call to action. It encourages prospective residents to proactively plan for their healthcare needs, ensuring that they can access the care they require. By understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and well-being in Center Moriches.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Living with hypertension in 11934 requires careful navigation of the transportation landscape. While the community offers a tranquil setting, healthcare access presents challenges. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for understanding these complexities, encouraging prospective residents to prioritize healthcare access. By considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Center Moriches. This comprehensive assessment is crucial for anyone considering a move, emphasizing the importance of planning and proactive healthcare management within the context of this unique Long Island community.