11941, Eastport, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11941, Eastport, New York is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.00 percent of residents in 11941 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 6.95 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Eastport (ZIP Code 11941)

Eastport, a charming hamlet nestled on Long Island's eastern shore, offers a tranquil escape for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to this community, especially those managing hypertension, is **healthcare access**. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 11941, evaluating its impact on a hypothetical "Hypertension Score," a measure of the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary medical care.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the understanding that timely and reliable access to healthcare, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments, is paramount for individuals managing hypertension. Delays or difficulties in reaching medical facilities can exacerbate the condition, leading to potentially serious health complications. Therefore, the "Hypertension Score" will consider factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services.

For residents of Eastport, the primary arteries for automobile **transportation** are Sunrise Highway (Route 27) and County Road 51. Sunrise Highway, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers the most direct route to larger medical centers located further west in Suffolk County. However, during peak commuting hours, particularly mornings and evenings, this highway can become congested, significantly increasing drive times. Conversely, County Road 51, a north-south road, provides access to local medical offices and hospitals, though its smaller size and potential for traffic lights can also influence travel duration.

The nearest major hospital, Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via County Road 51 and then the Long Island Expressway (LIE). This drive time can fluctuate considerably depending on traffic. Smaller, more accessible medical practices and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the area, including in Eastport itself, reducing travel time for routine appointments. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate travel to larger facilities further afield.

Public **transportation** options in Eastport are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system provides bus service, but routes are infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. The S92 bus route serves the area, offering connections to other routes and destinations. However, the S92's schedule may not align well with medical appointment times, and the overall travel time can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, while SCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the extended travel times and potential for transfers can be burdensome for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Eastport area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers a convenient door-to-door service, it is not always the most cost-effective or reliable option.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. Several companies operate in the Eastport area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including help with entering and exiting vehicles. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The "Hypertension Score" for Eastport, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of local medical practices and urgent care facilities provides convenient access for routine healthcare needs, the reliance on automobiles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The drive times to larger hospitals, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can increase travel time and stress, impacting the management of hypertension. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

For individuals considering **moving to Eastport** and managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and **transportation** requirements is crucial. Factors such as the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and personal mobility limitations should inform the decision-making process. Prospective residents should research the availability of medical providers in the area, assess the accessibility of their preferred healthcare facilities, and familiarize themselves with the various **transportation** options available.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Eastport might be considered moderate. The accessibility of local medical practices and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services mitigate some of the challenges posed by limited public transit and potential traffic congestion. However, the reliance on automobiles and the longer drive times to larger hospitals warrant careful consideration.

Ultimately, the success of managing hypertension in Eastport hinges on proactive planning and a commitment to prioritizing healthcare access. By carefully evaluating the **transportation** landscape and making informed decisions, residents can navigate the challenges and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate medical care they need. This includes proactively planning for appointments, considering the timing of travel, and exploring all available **transportation** options to minimize stress and ensure adherence to their healthcare regimen. The ability to readily access healthcare is a critical factor for anyone contemplating a move to Eastport.