11713, Bellport, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11713, Bellport, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.51 percent of residents in 11713 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 1.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bellport, NY (ZIP Code 11713)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of salt and pine in Bellport, a village nestled on the south shore of Long Island, New York. For those considering a move to this idyllic locale, the promise of tranquility and natural beauty often overshadows a critical consideration: healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the ease of reaching vital medical services, specifically those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, for residents of ZIP code 11713. We will explore the transportation landscape, from car travel to public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport, ultimately providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to help potential residents understand the realities of healthcare access in Bellport.

The journey to healthcare in Bellport begins with understanding the local road network. The primary artery is **Montauk Highway (Route 27A)**, which runs east-west, serving as the main commercial corridor. This road provides access to essential services, including pharmacies and urgent care facilities. However, accessing specialized lung cancer care often necessitates traveling further afield. **Sunrise Highway (Route 27)**, a major east-west expressway, offers a faster, albeit sometimes congested, route. The **Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495)**, further north, provides access to hospitals and medical centers in Suffolk County and beyond, including those in Nassau County and New York City. The drive times vary depending on traffic, time of day, and the specific destination.

For those relying on private vehicles, the drive to a comprehensive cancer center can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the location. The closest hospitals with oncology departments, such as **Long Island Community Hospital** in Patchogue and **Stony Brook University Hospital**, are accessible via Montauk Highway, Sunrise Highway, and local roads. These journeys require careful planning, considering peak traffic hours and potential delays. The commute can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or other side effects.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its accessibility is limited in Bellport. The **Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)** provides commuter rail service from the Bellport station. While the train offers a relatively reliable mode of transportation, it requires a connecting bus or taxi to reach many hospitals and medical facilities. The **Suffolk County Transit (SCT)** bus system operates routes within the area, including Route 60, which serves Bellport. However, bus schedules may not align with medical appointments, and the routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Additionally, the frequency of bus service can be limited, especially on weekends and evenings.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. The LIRR stations generally offer accessible platforms and elevators, but the availability of accessible features on SCT buses varies. Passengers should confirm the accessibility of specific routes and vehicles before traveling. The reliance on multiple modes of transportation, including walking and transfers, can pose significant challenges for those with mobility impairments or those undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Bellport, providing a convenient option for transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent trips. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be affected by weather conditions and traffic congestion.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like **Ambulette Services** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs. However, they offer a more reliable and comfortable option for patients who need assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. The availability of these services and the associated costs should be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access.

Moving to Bellport necessitates considering the distance to specialized medical care. The closest comprehensive cancer centers, such as the **Stony Brook Cancer Center** and the **Northwell Health Cancer Institute**, are located further afield. These facilities offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. However, the travel time to these centers can be significant, particularly during peak traffic hours.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Bellport, NY (ZIP code 11713) reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. The score considers factors such as drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transportation services. The score also takes into account the distance to specialized cancer centers and the accessibility of healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Based on the analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Bellport is moderate. While the village offers access to basic healthcare services, reaching specialized lung cancer care often requires navigating a complex transportation landscape. The reliance on private vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing services can pose significant challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable option for patients requiring assistance, but the associated costs and the need for pre-booking should be considered.

For individuals considering a move to Bellport, it is crucial to carefully assess their healthcare needs and to plan for the transportation challenges associated with accessing specialized medical care. Potential residents should research the availability of healthcare facilities, the distance to cancer centers, and the transportation options available to them. They should also consider the cost of transportation and the potential impact of travel on their health and well-being.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Bellport is a personal one. However, a thorough understanding of the "Lung Cancer Score" and the realities of healthcare access is essential for making an informed decision. The beauty and tranquility of Bellport should be balanced with a realistic assessment of the challenges of accessing specialized medical care, ensuring that residents can receive the care they need when they need it.