11568, Old Westbury, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11568, Old Westbury, New York is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.45 percent of residents in 11568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital - The Heart Center with a distance of 3.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11568

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Old Westbury, New York (ZIP code 11568), requires a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare. This analysis focuses specifically on transportation, a crucial element influencing the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities. The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental determinant of overall well-being, and in a suburban environment like Old Westbury, the methods of transportation available play a significant role in shaping this access.

Old Westbury, characterized by its affluence and sprawling estates, presents a unique challenge in terms of healthcare access. While the area boasts a high quality of life, its residential layout and limited public transportation options necessitate careful consideration of the transportation infrastructure available. This write-up delves into the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport services that residents of 11568 rely on to reach their healthcare providers.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

The primary mode of transportation for most Old Westbury residents is the personal vehicle. Navigating the roads is often the most direct route to healthcare facilities. The Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) serves as a major artery, providing access to hospitals and medical centers both east and west. Residents can quickly access the LIE via the Glen Cove Road or the Jericho Turnpike, though traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Heading west on the LIE, the drive to major hospitals such as North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Further west, reaching facilities in New Hyde Park or Queens might extend the commute to 45 minutes or longer. Eastward, the LIE offers access to hospitals in Plainview, Syosset, and Huntington, with drive times ranging from 20 to 45 minutes.

The Northern State Parkway provides an alternative route, offering a less congested option during certain times of the day. However, it is important to note that the Northern State Parkway is limited to passenger vehicles only. The Jericho Turnpike (Route 25) also serves as a significant east-west thoroughfare, connecting Old Westbury to various medical offices and clinics. While less direct than the LIE, it can offer a more convenient option for accessing local healthcare providers.

Local roads like Wheatley Road, Post Avenue, and Old Westbury Road are essential for navigating the immediate vicinity. They provide access to smaller medical practices, urgent care centers, and pharmacies within the community. The efficiency of these local roads is vital for quick access to immediate care.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

Public transportation options in Old Westbury are limited, but they still offer a valuable alternative for those who do not drive or prefer not to. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a crucial link to healthcare facilities. The Westbury station, located just south of Old Westbury, offers direct train service to Manhattan, where a multitude of hospitals and medical centers are readily accessible. The train ride itself can be relatively quick, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour to reach Penn Station.

From Penn Station, passengers can connect to various subway lines, providing access to hospitals throughout the city. The LIRR also provides service to other hospitals on Long Island. The Hicksville station, a short drive from Old Westbury, offers additional train options. The availability of the LIRR is an important factor for those who are unable to drive or prefer to avoid the stress of driving, especially when dealing with medical appointments.

Bus service in the area is provided by the Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE). Several bus routes serve the Old Westbury area, including the N22, N23, and N24. These routes connect to the LIRR stations and provide access to local shopping centers, medical offices, and hospitals. However, the bus routes are less frequent than the train and can be subject to traffic delays. The NICE buses are ADA-accessible, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Old Westbury, offering a convenient alternative to driving or taking public transportation. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to schedule appointments around public transit schedules. The ability to quickly and easily summon a ride is particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services also play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for residents of 11568. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation provide door-to-door service for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to patients with disabilities, those who require wheelchair-accessible vehicles, or those who simply need assistance with mobility.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Old Westbury area, including Access-A-Ride, a service operated by the MTA for individuals with disabilities. Other private companies offer similar services, providing a vital link to healthcare for those who cannot easily access other forms of transportation. The availability of these services significantly enhances the overall health score for residents of Old Westbury.

**Overall Health Score Implications: Considering the Commute**

The overall health score for residents of 11568 is significantly influenced by the transportation options available. While Old Westbury benefits from its proximity to major hospitals and medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The drive times, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides crucial support, but these services come at a cost. The overall health score is also impacted by the accessibility of healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities. The presence of ADA-accessible public transit and medical transportation options is essential for ensuring that all residents can access the care they need.

**Moving to Old Westbury: A Transportation Perspective**

For those considering moving to Old Westbury, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. While the area offers a high quality of life, prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and preferences. Those who rely on public transportation should carefully evaluate the LIRR and bus routes. Those who prefer to drive should factor in traffic congestion and the distance to healthcare facilities.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is another important factor. Prospective residents should research the availability and cost of these services to ensure that they can access healthcare easily. Understanding the transportation options available is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Old Westbury and ensuring access to healthcare.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of 11568 is a multifaceted assessment. While the area offers access to quality healthcare, the transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges. By carefully considering the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, residents can ensure that they can access the healthcare they need, contributing to their overall well-being. The ability to efficiently navigate the transportation landscape is a crucial factor in maintaining a high quality of life in Old Westbury.