11940, East Moriches, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11940, East Moriches, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.66 percent of residents in 11940 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 8.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in East Moriches (ZIP Code 11940)

The crisp salt air and tranquil shores of East Moriches, New York, offer a compelling allure for those seeking respite and a slower pace of life. However, a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to this idyllic locale, particularly those with existing health concerns or a family history of illness, is healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP Code 11940, focusing on the complexities of transportation to and from vital medical facilities, specifically those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. This score is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a practical guide to understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape.

The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, all weighed against the backdrop of a potential lung cancer diagnosis and the critical need for timely and consistent healthcare. The higher the score, the better the overall accessibility to lung cancer-related healthcare.

**The Geography of Care:**

East Moriches, nestled on the south shore of Long Island, is geographically positioned with a unique set of transportation challenges. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers and hospitals capable of providing specialized lung cancer care are located in Riverhead, Southampton, and further west, in the larger towns and cities of Suffolk County. These destinations, while offering advanced medical services, are often separated by significant distances and traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and summer weekends.

**Driving the Distance:**

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries connecting East Moriches to healthcare facilities are Sunrise Highway (NY-27) and Montauk Highway (NY-27A). Sunrise Highway, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers a more direct route to hospitals in Riverhead and Southampton. However, traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour, significantly extending travel times. The drive to Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, a facility offering oncology services, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Southampton Hospital, a more specialized facility, is approximately a 30 to 50-minute drive via Sunrise Highway or Montauk Highway.

Montauk Highway, a scenic coastal road, provides an alternative route, but it is often slower due to its two-lane configuration and numerous traffic lights. This route is particularly susceptible to congestion during the summer months, when the influx of tourists can create significant delays. Smaller roads, such as Moriches-Middle Island Road and Old Country Road, offer additional access points, but these can also become congested, particularly during school hours and peak commuting times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in East Moriches are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their health. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides bus service in the area. The S92 bus route, which runs along Montauk Highway, offers a connection to Riverhead and other towns. However, the frequency of the S92 is limited, with buses running approximately every hour or two during the day. The routes are not always aligned with the schedules of medical appointments, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving, especially considering the need for transfers.

The accessibility of public transit is also a critical consideration. While the SCT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses with wheelchair lifts, the availability of these features on all routes is not always guaranteed. This can create significant difficulties for individuals with mobility issues, further limiting their healthcare access. The lack of a direct train line adds to the transportation burdens.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in East Moriches, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours and in less densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who require assistance with transportation. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and transporting medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable, they often come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing. Companies such as First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) may offer services in the area, but their availability and pricing vary.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite View:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for East Moriches reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score is influenced by the drive times to key medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

Given the challenges of distance, traffic, and limited public transit, the score for East Moriches is moderate. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a burden for those unable to drive or for those who experience mobility challenges. The limited public transit options and the potential cost and availability constraints of ride-sharing and medical transport further contribute to the complexities of healthcare access.

**Moving to East Moriches: A Prudent Approach:**

For individuals considering a move to East Moriches, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns, careful planning is essential. Prospective residents should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and explore all available options. This may involve evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities, researching public transit routes, and investigating the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Furthermore, individuals should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the frequency and type of medical appointments they may require. This information can inform their transportation planning and help them make informed decisions about their healthcare access. The decision to move to East Moriches should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and a proactive plan for navigating the healthcare landscape. This will help ensure that residents can receive the timely and consistent care they need.