11596, Williston Park, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11596, Williston Park, New York is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.30 percent of residents in 11596 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Shore University Hospital with a distance of 3.27 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williston Park (ZIP Code 11596)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift diagnosis and treatment. For residents of Williston Park (ZIP Code 11596), the accessibility of specialized healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up, a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, delves into the realities of transportation options, examining how readily available are vital healthcare resources, ultimately shaping the lived experience of someone moving to Williston Park or already residing there. The goal is to illuminate the path to healthcare, providing a clearer understanding of the practicalities involved in accessing potentially life-saving treatment.

Williston Park, a charming suburban community, sits nestled within Nassau County, Long Island. Its proximity to New York City offers both advantages and disadvantages when considering healthcare access. While world-class medical facilities are within reach, the journey to them can be complex, influenced by traffic, public transit, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving and Traffic Realities**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) is the primary artery connecting Williston Park to a network of hospitals and specialist offices. Traveling east, the LIE offers relatively quick access to hospitals in the eastern Nassau County, like St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center in Roslyn. Westbound, the LIE provides access to hospitals in Queens and Manhattan. However, this convenience comes with a significant caveat: rush hour.

During peak commuting times, the LIE transforms into a parking lot, significantly extending drive times. The Northern State Parkway, another major thoroughfare, offers an alternative route, generally less congested than the LIE, though it too experiences heavy traffic during rush hour. Local roads like Willis Avenue and Jericho Turnpike (Route 25) provide additional options, but they are often plagued by stop-and-go traffic and traffic lights.

The drive to Northwell Health's Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, a major healthcare provider, is typically a 10-15 minute drive via the LIE or Northern State Parkway, barring heavy traffic. Reaching New York-Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical Center in Manhattan, a renowned cancer center, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This underscores the importance of factoring in potential delays when scheduling appointments and planning treatment.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

For those who rely on public transportation, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a crucial link to healthcare facilities. The Williston Park LIRR station offers frequent service to Penn Station in Manhattan, connecting patients to hospitals like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital. The ride to Penn Station is approximately 30-40 minutes, followed by a subway or taxi ride to the hospital.

The Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus system also serves Williston Park. Several bus routes, including the N22, N23, and N24, connect Williston Park to surrounding towns and hospitals. These buses offer a more affordable option than the LIRR, but travel times are significantly longer, and routes may require transfers.

It's crucial to note the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of public transit. The LIRR stations are generally ADA compliant, with elevators and ramps. NICE buses are also equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, patients with mobility limitations should always confirm the accessibility of their specific route and station before traveling.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate traffic or wait for buses. However, ride-sharing costs can be substantial, especially during peak hours.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, catering to the specific needs of patients with mobility issues. These services can be invaluable for those unable to drive or use public transit.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Williston Park is not a simple number; it's a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. While the area benefits from its proximity to world-class medical facilities, the challenges of transportation, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact healthcare access.

The availability of multiple transportation options, including the LIRR, NICE buses, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offers a degree of flexibility. However, each option comes with its own set of trade-offs, including cost, travel time, and accessibility considerations.

**Moving to Williston Park: A Proactive Approach**

For individuals considering moving to Williston Park, or those already residing there, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Researching the proximity of healthcare facilities, evaluating transportation options, and considering the potential impact of traffic are crucial steps.

Prioritizing healthcare access is a key consideration. It is important to familiarize oneself with the various transportation options, including the LIRR schedule, NICE bus routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This proactive approach can help mitigate the challenges of accessing healthcare and ensure timely treatment.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Care**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Williston Park highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. While the area offers access to excellent healthcare, the journey to those facilities can be challenging. By carefully considering the available transportation options, residents can navigate the path to care with greater confidence and ensure timely access to potentially life-saving treatment. The goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions, fostering a supportive environment for those facing the complexities of lung cancer.