11596, Williston Park, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11596, Williston Park, New York is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.30 percent of residents in 11596 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Hospital - The Heart Center with a distance of 3.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Williston Park (ZIP Code 11596)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Williston Park (ZIP Code 11596) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare facilities. A crucial element of this assessment is the ease with which residents can reach these vital services. This write-up will meticulously explore the transportation landscape, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access for those residing in or considering moving to this Nassau County community.

The foundation of any health score analysis rests on the availability of healthcare providers. Williston Park, nestled in the heart of Long Island, benefits from its proximity to a diverse range of medical facilities, including hospitals, specialized clinics, and general practitioner offices. However, the true measure of healthcare access lies not just in the presence of these facilities but in the ease with which residents can reach them. This is where transportation becomes a critical factor.

For those who prefer the convenience of personal vehicles, the roadways of Williston Park and its surrounding areas offer a network of routes leading to healthcare destinations. The Long Island Expressway (LIE), a major artery, provides rapid access to hospitals such as North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset and Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola. Driving times vary depending on traffic conditions, but typically, these journeys can be completed within 15 to 30 minutes.

The Northern State Parkway, another crucial thoroughfare, offers an alternative route, often less congested, to reach facilities further east. Local roads, including Jericho Turnpike, Hillside Avenue, and Willis Avenue, provide direct access to various medical offices and clinics within and around Williston Park. These local routes, while offering convenience, can be subject to peak-hour traffic, potentially extending travel times.

Public transportation provides a viable alternative for those who prefer not to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a reliable and efficient means of transportation, with the Williston Park station serving as a key hub. Commuters can take the Port Washington Branch to reach various healthcare facilities, including those in Manhattan. The LIRR’s ADA accessibility features, such as ramps and elevators, ensure that individuals with disabilities can navigate the system with ease.

Bus routes operated by the Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) further enhance the public transportation network. The N22, N23, and N24 routes provide access to healthcare facilities along Jericho Turnpike and other major thoroughfares. While bus travel may take longer than driving or the LIRR, it offers a cost-effective option, particularly for those traveling shorter distances. NICE buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular as a convenient transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering a flexible alternative to public transit or personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing services in Williston Park is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to 15 minutes, depending on demand.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical transport, dedicated services are available. Medical transport companies, such as AMR and TransCare, offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are essential for individuals who cannot utilize public transportation or drive themselves to appointments. Booking medical transport requires advance planning, but these services play a critical role in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The overall health score for Williston Park residents is positively impacted by the diverse transportation options available. The combination of readily accessible roadways, a robust LIRR network, a functional NICE bus system, and the convenience of ride-sharing services creates a supportive environment for healthcare access. The presence of medical transport services further enhances accessibility for those with specific needs.

However, the health score is not without its nuances. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times and potentially delay access to care. The reliance on public transportation may require careful planning and consideration of travel times. The cost of ride-sharing services can be a barrier for some individuals.

When considering moving to Williston Park, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. Those who prioritize convenience and flexibility may find the proximity to major roadways and the availability of ride-sharing services highly advantageous. Individuals who prefer cost-effective transportation may find the LIRR and NICE bus routes to be suitable options.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Williston Park reflects a community that strives to provide accessible healthcare. The transportation infrastructure supports this goal, offering a range of options to ensure that residents can reach the medical services they need. The ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and provide specialized medical transport further enhance the community's commitment to healthcare access.