11742, Holtsville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11742, Holtsville, New York is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.19 percent of residents in 11742 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 3.92 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Holtsville (ZIP Code 11742)

Holtsville, New York, a community nestled in Suffolk County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare access, particularly when considering the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within the 11742 ZIP code. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, ultimately painting a picture for those considering moving to Holtsville, or for current residents navigating their healthcare journeys.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment, considering the convenience, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of transportation options to relevant healthcare facilities. A higher score reflects better access, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. Factors such as distance, traffic patterns, and the availability of specialized medical services are all weighed.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

The primary arteries for transportation in Holtsville are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) and the William Floyd Parkway (CR-46). The LIE, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers relatively direct access to hospitals and medical centers. However, rush hour traffic, a notorious feature of Long Island commutes, can significantly impact drive times.

Driving east on the LIE from Holtsville, the drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center with comprehensive cancer care, is approximately 30-45 minutes during off-peak hours. During peak commuting times, this journey can easily stretch to an hour or more, a critical consideration for patients needing frequent appointments or experiencing acute symptoms.

Heading west on the LIE provides access to other healthcare providers, including those in the Smithtown and Hauppauge areas. Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip, another potential destination for lung cancer treatment, is about a 20-30 minute drive via the LIE and Sunrise Highway (NY-27) under ideal traffic conditions.

The William Floyd Parkway, running north-south, offers an alternative route, particularly for accessing healthcare facilities in the southern portions of Suffolk County. However, it can be slower, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. The overall drive time to the nearest major hospitals and cancer centers is a significant factor in the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides bus service within the 11742 ZIP code. The S61 route, for instance, offers connections to Patchogue, a hub for healthcare services. The S61 route is not directly accessible to the LIE, so it is not a direct route to Stony Brook University Hospital.

The S58 bus route, connecting Holtsville to the Ronkonkoma Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station, offers another public transit option. The LIRR provides rail service to New York City and other locations, opening up access to a wider range of medical facilities. However, the LIRR station is not in Holtsville, so it requires a bus ride or a drive to the station, adding to the overall commute time.

ADA accessibility on SCT buses is available, providing crucial support for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the frequency of bus service, especially during evenings and weekends, may pose limitations for those needing regular medical appointments. The public transportation landscape contributes to the "Lung Cancer Score" by its accessibility, but also its limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Holtsville. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for those unable to drive or lacking access to public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, are also available. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, often providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility needs. While these services offer convenience and specialized care, they are generally more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation options impact the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those who require assistance with their transportation needs.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Holtsville, 11742, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major highways like the LIE offers relatively quick access to hospitals and cancer centers, traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. Public transit provides an alternative, but it is not as convenient as private transportation. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer convenient options, but the cost can be a barrier for some.

The availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers, such as those at Stony Brook University Hospital, is a significant advantage. However, the distance and travel time to these centers are important considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Holtsville, or for current residents navigating their healthcare journeys, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Assessing individual needs, financial resources, and mobility limitations is crucial for ensuring adequate healthcare access.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in the community, including expanding public transit options, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and supporting medical transportation services. By addressing these challenges, Holtsville can strive to create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for all residents.