11783, Seaford, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11783, Seaford, New York is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.21 percent of residents in 11783 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chsli St Joseph Hospital with a distance of 3.33 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Seaford, NY (ZIP Code 11783)

Considering a move to Seaford, New York (ZIP Code 11783)? Beyond the charming suburban landscape and access to the Long Island Sound, understanding healthcare access is crucial, especially if you or a loved one have concerns about lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options to medical facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, specifically focusing on your ability to navigate the system from a Seaford starting point. We’ll analyze drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for residents.

The Lung Cancer Score isn't a numerical grade; it's an interpretive framework. It highlights the complexities of accessing potentially life-saving care and emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making regarding healthcare access. We'll evaluate the ease of transportation to key healthcare providers, considering factors like travel time, cost, and accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. This information is critical for anyone, but especially those facing or at risk of lung cancer, as timely access to specialized care can significantly impact outcomes.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

Seaford's location offers both advantages and disadvantages concerning healthcare access. The primary roadways serving the area are the Wantagh State Parkway, the Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway (Route 135), and Merrick Road. These arteries are your primary means of transportation to medical facilities.

Driving to Northwell Health's Long Island Jewish Medical Center (LIJMC) in New Hyde Park, a major cancer center, typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The Wantagh State Parkway provides a direct route, but rush hour can significantly extend travel times. Similarly, heading east to Stony Brook University Hospital, another comprehensive cancer center, involves navigating the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495), a journey that can stretch to over an hour during peak periods. The Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway can offer a faster route towards the LIE, but it can also become congested.

For those seeking local options, St. Joseph Hospital in Bethpage is a shorter drive, approximately 15-20 minutes via Wantagh Avenue and Hempstead Turnpike. While it offers some cancer services, it may not have the specialized expertise of larger facilities. These drive times highlight the importance of considering traffic patterns, especially when scheduling appointments or facing urgent medical needs.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a viable public transportation alternative. The Seaford station provides access to the Babylon Branch, which connects to Jamaica Station. From Jamaica, you can transfer to other LIRR lines or the New York City subway system.

Reaching LIJMC via public transit requires careful planning. Take the LIRR to Jamaica, transfer to the E or F subway lines, and then utilize a bus or ride-sharing service for the final leg. This journey can easily take 1.5 to 2 hours. Stony Brook Hospital is even more challenging by public transit, involving multiple transfers and a longer travel time.

Bus service in the area is provided by the Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE). The N54 and N55 routes offer service along Merrick Road and Hicksville Road, respectively. However, these routes don't directly connect to major cancer centers. NICE buses are ADA-accessible, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. While public transit offers a cost-effective option, it is time-consuming and may not be suitable for patients requiring frequent appointments or experiencing mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: The On-Demand Option**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Seaford. They provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation, especially for those without personal vehicles. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. They may be a more reliable option than ride-sharing for scheduled appointments, but they often require advance booking and can be more expensive.

**Accessibility and Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

The Lung Cancer Score is significantly influenced by accessibility. Patients undergoing treatment may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other mobility limitations. Therefore, the availability of accessible transportation options is critical.

For those relying on public transit, the availability of elevators and ramps at stations and bus stops is essential. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient option, but patients should ensure drivers are willing to assist with mobility needs. Medical transportation services offer the most comprehensive support, but they are often the most expensive.

The distance to healthcare facilities also plays a crucial role. Longer travel times can increase patient fatigue and stress. Therefore, choosing a healthcare provider close to home is often preferable, provided the facility offers the necessary specialized care.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for Seaford, NY (ZIP Code 11783) is not a simple metric. It's a complex assessment that considers various factors. The area offers a mix of transportation options, with drive times varying depending on traffic. Public transit is available but can be time-consuming. Ride-sharing and medical transportation provide more convenient options, but they come with associated costs.

For individuals considering a move to Seaford or already residing there, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of:

* **Proximity:** Choosing a home near healthcare facilities.
* **Transportation Planning:** Considering traffic patterns and public transit routes.
* **Financial Planning:** Factoring in the costs of ride-sharing and medical transportation.
* **Accessibility:** Ensuring transportation options meet individual mobility needs.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Understanding coverage for medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Seaford emphasizes the need for a proactive approach to healthcare access. By carefully considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions that support their health and well-being, particularly for those facing the challenges of lung cancer. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is crucial for accessing timely and appropriate care, which can significantly impact outcomes. This information is invaluable for anyone considering moving to Seaford or for existing residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.