11951, Mastic Beach, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11951, Mastic Beach, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.93 percent of residents in 11951 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 7.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mastic Beach (ZIP Code 11951)

Considering a move to the charming coastal community of Mastic Beach, New York (ZIP Code 11951)? Beyond the allure of sandy shores and serene waterways, a crucial factor to assess is healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options available to residents seeking regular medical care, a necessity for effective hypertension management. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-share possibilities, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the healthcare landscape.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical value; it's a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency with which residents can access essential healthcare services. Factors considered include travel time, mode of transport, cost, and accessibility. This analysis is especially vital for those with hypertension, as consistent medical attention and medication adherence are paramount.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways to Wellness**

For those who prefer the independence of a personal vehicle, navigating the roadways is a primary mode of transportation. From the heart of Mastic Beach, accessing healthcare facilities necessitates understanding the local road network. The primary artery is **Montauk Highway (Route 27A)**, serving as the main thoroughfare connecting Mastic Beach to neighboring towns and medical centers.

Traveling east on Montauk Highway leads to the **Long Island Community Hospital** in Patchogue, a journey of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive services, including cardiology and internal medicine, critical for hypertension management. The return trip, of course, follows the same route.

Westbound on Montauk Highway provides access to the **Peconic Bay Medical Center** in Riverhead, a longer drive of around 30-45 minutes, again influenced by traffic conditions. This hospital also offers cardiology and related services.

Alternative routes exist, but they often involve navigating residential streets and are generally less efficient. **William Floyd Parkway (County Road 46)** provides a north-south connection, potentially offering access to hospitals further north, but this route is less direct for most healthcare destinations.

Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and weekends, can significantly impact drive times. Careful planning and consideration of travel times are therefore essential.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus System**

For those who rely on public transportation, the **Suffolk County Transit** system offers bus routes serving Mastic Beach. The **S60** route runs along Montauk Highway, providing a direct link to Patchogue and its medical facilities. The bus frequency varies, with more frequent service during peak hours.

The **S61** route offers service further east, but may not directly serve the most accessible healthcare facilities.

The Suffolk County Transit system provides ADA-accessible buses, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations. While public transit offers an affordable option, travel times are generally longer than driving, and the frequency of service may require careful planning.

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

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in Mastic Beach. However, availability and pricing can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, but the cost can be a significant factor.

For individuals with specific medical needs, medical transportation services are available. **Ambulette services** and specialized medical transport companies provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. These services cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical requirements.

Medical transport is a valuable resource, but it often comes at a higher cost than other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for Mastic Beach requires acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation option. Driving offers the greatest flexibility and control over travel time, but it's subject to traffic and requires a personal vehicle. Public transit provides an affordable alternative, but travel times are longer, and the frequency of service may be limiting. Ride-sharing offers convenience, but cost and availability can be barriers. Medical transport caters to specific needs but is typically the most expensive option.

The proximity of healthcare facilities to Mastic Beach is a positive factor. The Long Island Community Hospital and Peconic Bay Medical Center are within a reasonable driving distance. The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services further enhances healthcare access.

**Moving to Mastic Beach: A Holistic Perspective**

When considering a move to Mastic Beach, individuals with hypertension should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Researching the specific healthcare providers in the area, understanding the availability of transportation options, and factoring in travel times are crucial steps.

The "Hypertension Score" for Mastic Beach is favorable, but it's essential to tailor the assessment to individual circumstances. For those who can drive, healthcare access is relatively straightforward. For those relying on public transit, careful planning is required. Ride-sharing and medical transport provide valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability should be considered.

Living in Mastic Beach offers the potential for a fulfilling lifestyle, with the added benefit of reasonable access to healthcare services. By carefully evaluating transportation options and healthcare resources, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure their health needs are met. This comprehensive analysis provides a solid foundation for understanding the healthcare landscape and navigating the journey to wellness in this coastal community.