11771, Oyster Bay, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11771, Oyster Bay, New York is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.13 percent of residents in 11771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwell Hospital Glen Cove with a distance of 4.89 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oyster Bay (ZIP Code 11771)

This analysis assesses the ease of access to lung cancer healthcare for residents of Oyster Bay, New York (ZIP Code 11771), considering the crucial element of **transportation**. We delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a detailed picture of the landscape for those seeking diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," reflecting the challenges and advantages of accessing vital medical services within and beyond the Oyster Bay area. This information is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Oyster Bay**, as it directly impacts their healthcare **access**.

Oyster Bay, a charming town on Long Island's North Shore, offers a desirable lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness from major medical centers presents a unique set of **transportation** considerations. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** are critical determinants of patient outcomes, especially in the context of a serious illness like lung cancer. Delays in diagnosis or treatment due to **transportation** difficulties can significantly impact survival rates and quality of life.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

The primary roadways serving Oyster Bay are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495), the Northern State Parkway, and the Jericho Turnpike (Route 25). The LIE, while the most direct route to New York City and major hospitals, is notorious for its heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. Traveling east from Oyster Bay, the LIE can be relatively clear, but west-bound commutes often face significant delays.

The Northern State Parkway, a scenic alternative, provides a less congested route to some hospitals, especially those located further west. However, it has restrictions on commercial vehicles, which can impact medical **transportation** services. The Jericho Turnpike, a local road, offers a slower, more direct route to some nearby medical facilities but is also prone to traffic congestion, particularly in the towns of Jericho and Syosset.

Drive times to key healthcare facilities vary considerably. North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, a major medical center, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Stony Brook University Hospital, further east, requires a 60-90 minute drive. New York City hospitals, such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center or Mount Sinai Hospital, can take between 60-90 minutes or longer, depending on traffic and the specific location within the city. These times underscore the significance of reliable **transportation** for regular appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and emergency situations.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a crucial link to New York City and other areas, offering a more predictable **transportation** option than driving, especially during rush hour. The Oyster Bay branch of the LIRR has a station in the heart of the town. However, the LIRR's direct access to hospitals is limited. Passengers would need to transfer to subway lines or other local buses to reach specific medical facilities.

The LIRR's accessibility features, including elevators and ramps, are generally good, making it a viable option for patients with mobility limitations. The MTA's bus network also serves Oyster Bay, with routes like the N70, N71, and N72 connecting the town to surrounding areas. These buses, however, may have limited service frequency and can be subject to delays due to traffic. ADA-accessible buses are available, but their availability on specific routes should be confirmed.

The integration of the LIRR and bus services is crucial for patients. While the LIRR offers a faster route to the city, the bus network provides the necessary connections to hospitals. This multi-modal approach requires careful planning and consideration of transfer times, particularly for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, where time and energy are precious resources.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Oyster Bay, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They provide door-to-door service, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that may impair their ability to drive. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can be a financial burden.

Specialized medical **transportation** services, such as MedTrans or First Transit, cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency medical **transportation** with trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. While offering a crucial service, these options often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. These services are essential for patients who cannot drive or use public transit due to their condition.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Oyster Bay (ZIP Code 11771) must integrate all these factors. While the town offers a desirable living environment, its distance from major medical centers and reliance on congested roadways and a potentially limited public transit system pose challenges.

The score would consider:

* **Drive Time Reliability:** The average time to reach key hospitals, factoring in peak-hour traffic and potential delays on the LIE, Northern State Parkway, and Jericho Turnpike.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, reliability, and ADA-accessibility of LIRR and bus routes to relevant hospitals.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The cost, availability, and reliability of Uber, Lyft, and specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Financial Burden:** The overall cost of **transportation**, considering the frequency of appointments and the potential for out-of-pocket expenses.

The score would be a composite metric, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing lung cancer healthcare. A high score would indicate excellent access, while a low score would highlight significant **transportation** barriers.

**Conclusion: Implications for Residents and those Considering Moving**

For residents of Oyster Bay diagnosed with lung cancer, understanding these **transportation** complexities is crucial. Patients should proactively plan their **transportation**, considering all available options and their associated costs and limitations. This includes exploring the LIRR, ride-sharing, medical **transportation**, and even carpooling with family or friends.

For those **moving to Oyster Bay**, this analysis provides essential information. The proximity to quality healthcare is a significant factor in overall well-being. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, or those concerned about future healthcare needs, should carefully consider the **transportation** challenges before relocating. The availability of reliable and affordable **transportation** is a critical component of **healthcare access** in Oyster Bay.