11955, Moriches, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11955, Moriches, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.38 percent of residents in 11955 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moriches, NY (ZIP Code 11955)**

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and reliable healthcare access. For residents of Moriches, New York (ZIP Code 11955), understanding the nuances of transportation options is crucial in the fight against this disease. This Lung Cancer Score analysis delves into the available pathways to medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture of healthcare access for potential and current residents. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Moriches, as proximity to quality care is paramount.

The cornerstone of transportation in Moriches, for those capable of driving, revolves around the major thoroughfares. The Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) serves as the primary artery, connecting Moriches to major medical centers in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Reaching Stony Brook University Hospital, a leading facility, typically requires a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The William Floyd Parkway, a north-south route, offers a more direct, albeit slower, alternative. The Sunrise Highway (NY-27) provides another route, often congested, but offering access to hospitals further west.

Navigating these roads requires careful consideration of traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. Morning and evening commutes can significantly extend drive times. Accidents, common on the LIE, can cause major delays. Therefore, those reliant on driving must factor in these variables when planning appointments or seeking emergency care. This reality underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

Public transit, while available, presents a more complex picture. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers service from the Mastic-Shirley station, a short drive from Moriches. However, the station is not directly within the ZIP code. Reaching Manhattan, and its numerous hospitals, requires a train ride of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, followed by a subway or taxi ride. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms.

Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides local bus service, but the routes are limited and infrequent. Route 60, for example, connects Moriches to Patchogue, a hub for healthcare services. However, the bus frequency is not ideal for those requiring frequent medical appointments. ADA accessibility is a key consideration, as all SCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. This is a critical factor for patients with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. Availability in Moriches is generally good, especially during daylight hours. However, surge pricing during peak times or emergencies can make these services expensive. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing, particularly for scheduled appointments, is not always guaranteed. Patients must factor in potential delays and the need for advance booking.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in bridging the gap for patients with mobility issues or those unable to drive. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, but they provide a vital link to healthcare facilities for those with limited mobility.

The availability of medical transport underscores the importance of planning. For individuals facing lung cancer, the need for prompt and regular medical care is paramount. This requires careful consideration of all available transportation options, from personal vehicles to specialized medical transport services.

The landscape of healthcare access in Moriches is not without its challenges. The reliance on driving, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a complex equation. For individuals considering moving to Moriches, or those already residing there, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential.

The proximity to healthcare facilities, while not ideal, is not a complete barrier. The key is to proactively plan and consider all available options. This includes understanding the potential for delays, the costs involved, and the need for advance booking.

The success of lung cancer treatment hinges on early detection and consistent care. Therefore, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape in Moriches is not just a matter of convenience, it is a matter of life and death. This Lung Cancer Score aims to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering residents to make informed decisions and ensuring they can access the care they need, when they need it.

The final score, based on the factors discussed, is a reflection of the overall accessibility. It is not a static number, but a dynamic assessment that can change depending on individual circumstances, health conditions, and the availability of resources. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities that exist in Moriches, NY, so that residents can navigate the healthcare system with confidence and clarity.