11598, Woodmere, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11598, Woodmere, New York is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.44 percent of residents in 11598 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St John's Episcopal Hospital At South Shore with a distance of 3.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Woodmere, NY (ZIP Code 11598)

Woodmere, a charming hamlet nestled on the South Shore of Long Island, offers a desirable suburban lifestyle. However, a critical factor influencing overall well-being is the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for healthcare accessibility within ZIP code 11598, considering various transportation options, including drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Woodmere and prioritizing their health.

The score will be determined by evaluating the efficiency and convenience of reaching various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care centers, primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies. The assessment will weigh the time commitment, cost, and accessibility of each transportation mode, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access within the community.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

For many Woodmere residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to major roadways significantly impacts healthcare access. The Southern State Parkway, a critical artery, provides relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers both east and west. Heading west, a drive to Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital, located just outside the ZIP code, typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This facility offers a comprehensive range of services, making it a vital resource for Woodmere residents.

Traveling east on the Southern State Parkway leads to South Nassau Communities Hospital in Oceanside. The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes, offering another major healthcare option. These times are generally consistent during off-peak hours; however, rush hour can significantly extend travel durations, particularly on the Southern State Parkway. The Meadowbrook State Parkway also provides access to healthcare facilities, but it is often congested, especially during peak commuting times. Local roads like Peninsula Boulevard and Broadway also play a role in reaching healthcare providers, offering alternative routes, albeit with potentially slower travel times.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a valuable public transit option for Woodmere residents. The Woodmere station offers convenient access to Manhattan, where a vast array of specialized medical facilities are available. The LIRR also connects to other Long Island towns, providing access to healthcare providers in those areas. The train ride to Penn Station in Manhattan takes approximately 30-40 minutes, followed by a subway or taxi ride to reach specific hospitals or clinics.

The Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus system offers additional transportation options. Several bus routes serve Woodmere, connecting residents to nearby towns and healthcare facilities. The N31 route, for example, travels along Peninsula Boulevard, providing access to various medical offices and pharmacies. The N32 route also offers connectivity to healthcare providers. However, bus travel times are often longer than driving, and the frequency of service may be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

**ADA Accessibility: Ensuring Inclusive Healthcare Access**

Both the LIRR and NICE bus system strive to provide accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities. The LIRR stations are generally equipped with elevators and ramps to facilitate access for passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. NICE buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and offer priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, it is essential to verify the specific accessibility features of each station or bus route before traveling, as accessibility can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions for Healthcare Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives for healthcare transportation. These services are readily available in Woodmere and can be easily accessed through smartphone apps. Ride-sharing provides door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or rely on personal vehicles. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be higher than public transit, especially during peak hours.

Medical transportation services, such as medical car services and ambulance services, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges or medical conditions. Medical transportation services are particularly useful for patients requiring non-emergency medical appointments or those needing assistance getting to and from healthcare facilities. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide these critical services.

**Pharmacies: Essential Healthcare Components**

Access to pharmacies is a crucial element of healthcare access. Woodmere boasts several pharmacies, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription filling services, over-the-counter medications, and various health-related products. The availability of pharmacies within the community ensures convenient access to medications and healthcare supplies.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Considering the various transportation options available, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Woodmere, NY (ZIP code 11598) is rated as **Good**. The proximity to major roadways, the availability of the LIRR, and the presence of ride-sharing services contribute to relatively convenient access to healthcare facilities.

However, the score is tempered by the potential for traffic congestion on the Southern State Parkway and Meadowbrook State Parkway during peak hours. The reliance on personal vehicles can also pose challenges for individuals who do not drive or who may have mobility limitations. While the NICE bus system provides additional transportation options, travel times can be longer, and service frequency may be limited.

The presence of accessible public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation services enhances the overall healthcare access for residents with disabilities or specific medical needs. The availability of pharmacies within the community further supports convenient access to essential healthcare components.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare in Woodmere**

For those considering moving to Woodmere, the "Overall Health Score" highlights the importance of evaluating transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. While Woodmere offers generally good healthcare accessibility, residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and preferences. Understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing options will empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being. Prioritizing healthcare access is crucial for creating a healthy and thriving community.