11933, Calverton, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11933, Calverton, New York is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.12 percent of residents in 11933 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 4.91 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 11933 (Calverton, NY)**

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and salt in Calverton, New York (ZIP Code 11933), a community nestled on the North Fork of Long Island. While the bucolic charm of this hamlet may beckon those seeking respite from the city, potential residents, especially those with or at risk of lung cancer, must consider the realities of healthcare access. This assessment explores the intricacies of transportation within and beyond 11933, evaluating how easily residents can reach vital medical services. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the degree of difficulty in accessing timely and appropriate care, incorporating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape for those contemplating moving to Calverton.

The primary transportation artery serving 11933 is the Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495. This major highway provides the most direct route to hospitals and specialized medical centers located further west, such as those in Smithtown or even New York City. However, the LIE is notorious for its congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. A drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic. The secondary route is County Road 58, a less-traveled but slower option, offering access to Riverhead and other local communities.

The drive times to key healthcare facilities are crucial considerations. The nearest hospital, Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via County Road 58. This relatively short distance is a significant advantage for immediate care needs. However, for specialized oncology services or advanced treatments, patients may need to travel further. The drive to a major cancer center like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Commack, for example, could take over an hour in heavy traffic, making it a significant hurdle for frequent appointments or emergency situations. This highlights the complex relationship between transportation and healthcare access.

Public transit options in 11933 are limited. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. Route 60 serves the Calverton area, connecting to Riverhead and other towns. However, the bus stops are often located at considerable distances from residential areas, and the schedules may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the ADA accessibility of the buses is crucial for patients with mobility issues, ensuring that they can navigate the system with ease. The reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Calverton can be challenging, especially for those requiring frequent treatments or facing mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 11933, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, it may not be a reliable or affordable option for all residents. This is a critical consideration for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to their health condition.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients who require assistance with mobility or medical needs. Companies like CareRide and MediRide offer services that include door-to-door assistance and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for patients with lung cancer who may have difficulty traveling independently. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often necessary. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their affordability and accessibility are essential considerations.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 11933 reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The proximity of Peconic Bay Medical Center offers a crucial advantage for immediate medical needs. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services present significant barriers. For individuals considering moving to Calverton, especially those with lung cancer or at high risk, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and financial resources is essential. This includes understanding the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and the potential costs associated with various transportation options.

The decision to relocate to Calverton requires careful consideration of the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. The Long Island Expressway and County Road 58 are vital links, but their limitations must be acknowledged. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some flexibility, but their cost and reliability are crucial factors. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that the quality of life in a community is inextricably linked to the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services. Moving to Calverton requires a realistic assessment of these factors to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively and efficiently.