11951, Mastic Beach, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11951, Mastic Beach, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.93 percent of residents in 11951 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 14.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mastic Beach (ZIP Code 11951)

The salty air and serene beaches of Mastic Beach, New York (ZIP code 11951), offer a compelling allure for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. However, prospective residents must consider a crucial factor: **healthcare access**, particularly for a disease as serious as lung cancer. This write-up assesses the **transportation** landscape, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, to create a "Lung Cancer Score" for this community. This score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing specialized medical care, a vital consideration for anyone **moving to Mastic Beach**.

The journey to healthcare in this Suffolk County enclave is primarily dictated by the limitations of Long Island's **transportation** infrastructure. The primary arteries are the William Floyd Parkway and Montauk Highway (NY-27A), both of which can become congested, especially during peak commuting hours. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a vital alternative, but its reach and frequency are limited, and its connection to specialized cancer centers requires further **transportation**.

For individuals in Mastic Beach, the nearest hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are a significant drive away. The drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on the William Floyd Parkway and Nicolls Road. This time can easily double during rush hour. Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip is another option, reachable via Montauk Highway and the Southern State Parkway, a journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, again, contingent on traffic.

Public **transportation** options are available, but they present challenges. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system offers bus routes that serve Mastic Beach. Route 80 connects to the LIRR station in Mastic-Shirley, providing a link to the wider rail network. From there, passengers can travel west towards Stony Brook or east towards other medical facilities. However, bus schedules are infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings, and the routes are not always direct. Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is also a concern. While SCT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, navigating transfers and waiting for connections can be arduous for patients undergoing treatment.

The LIRR itself offers a more efficient, albeit less frequent, option. The Mastic-Shirley station is a key hub. From here, commuters can travel to Penn Station in Manhattan, which provides access to a wider range of cancer centers, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital. However, this journey involves a significant time commitment, often exceeding two hours each way, including travel to the station, the train ride, and the final leg of **transportation** in Manhattan. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for patients experiencing fatigue or undergoing chemotherapy.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant financial burden for patients and their families, especially considering the frequency of appointments and treatments. Furthermore, the availability of specialized medical **transportation** services, designed to accommodate patients with specific needs, is limited in the Mastic Beach area.

Medical **transportation** companies, such as CareRide and Logisticare, may provide non-emergency medical **transportation** services, but their availability and coverage area should be confirmed. These services often require prior authorization and may have specific eligibility criteria. Investigating these options is crucial for patients who may require assistance with **transportation** due to their medical condition.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Mastic Beach presents a mixed bag. The proximity to major hospitals is somewhat offset by the limitations of the **transportation** network. The reliance on personal vehicles, the challenges of public **transportation**, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing services all contribute to the complexity of accessing specialized cancer care.

Considering these factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Mastic Beach (11951) would be moderate. While the community has access to reputable hospitals and cancer centers, the **transportation** challenges significantly impact **healthcare access**. The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration for individuals **moving to Mastic Beach**, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or a higher risk profile.

The score highlights the importance of proactive planning. Prospective residents should research the specific cancer care facilities available, assess their **transportation** needs, and explore all available options, including public **transportation**, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation** providers. They should also factor in the potential costs associated with **transportation** and the time commitment required for appointments and treatments.

Furthermore, the score underscores the importance of community support. Local organizations and advocacy groups can play a vital role in providing assistance and resources to cancer patients, including **transportation** assistance, financial aid, and emotional support.

In conclusion, while Mastic Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, its **transportation** limitations necessitate a careful evaluation of **healthcare access**, particularly for those affected by lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of thorough planning and proactive engagement with the healthcare system. For individuals **moving to Mastic Beach**, a comprehensive assessment of **transportation** options is critical to ensure timely access to potentially life-saving care.