11713, Bellport, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11713, Bellport, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.51 percent of residents in 11713 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 1.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bellport (ZIP Code 11713)

The quaint village of Bellport, nestled on the south shore of Long Island, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, prospective residents must consider an often-overlooked aspect of community well-being: access to healthcare. This comprehensive analysis, focusing on ZIP code 11713, provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to medical facilities, crucial for anyone **moving to Bellport**. This score incorporates drive times, public transit options, and alternative **healthcare access** solutions, offering a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities.

Bellport's geographical isolation presents a significant hurdle. The village is bordered by the Great South Bay to the south, restricting direct access to many regional medical centers. This necessitates reliance on road networks, which can be subject to congestion, particularly during peak hours and seasonal influxes.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary routes for accessing healthcare from Bellport are the Sunrise Highway (NY-27) and Montauk Highway (NY-27A). These arteries are the lifeblood of **transportation** in the area. Driving to the nearest hospitals, like Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue, usually takes 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. However, the Sunrise Highway often experiences heavy traffic, especially during rush hour, extending travel times considerably. Similarly, Montauk Highway, a more scenic route, can become congested, particularly near shopping centers and intersections.

Further afield, accessing larger hospitals like Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center, requires a journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour via the Sunrise Highway and the William Floyd Parkway. This drive time is significantly impacted by traffic, potentially making it a stressful experience for patients requiring urgent care. The Southern State Parkway, though a faster alternative, is often more congested and less direct.

The condition of these roads, particularly during winter weather, can also significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can lead to delays and increased accident risks, further emphasizing the importance of reliable **transportation** options.

**Public Transit Options:**

For those without personal vehicles, public **transportation** presents a mixed bag. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a train station in Bellport, providing a direct route to New York City and connecting to various medical facilities along the line. However, the LIRR's primary focus is commuting to the city, meaning that access to hospitals located further east, like those in Riverhead or Southampton, is limited.

The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) bus system offers a more localized **transportation** solution. Bus routes S63 and S69 serve Bellport, connecting to nearby towns and medical facilities. However, these bus routes often have limited frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends, making them less convenient for urgent medical needs. Additionally, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. While the SCT system is mandated to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessible buses and stops, the availability of ADA-compliant features may vary depending on the route and time of day. Delays and route deviations can also impact the reliability of public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Bellport, offering an alternative **transportation** option. These services can provide on-demand access to medical facilities, but their availability and cost can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services expensive, potentially limiting their accessibility for those with limited financial resources.

Specialized medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are also available. These services cater specifically to patients with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide emergency and non-emergency transport. However, these services often come with higher costs and may require prior arrangements, making them less suitable for spontaneous medical needs.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for access to healthcare in Bellport (11713) is moderate. While the village offers a degree of access through various **transportation** options, the limitations are significant. Drive times to major hospitals can be lengthy, particularly during peak hours. Public transit, while available, suffers from frequency limitations and potential accessibility issues. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be costly.

For individuals **moving to Bellport**, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs is crucial. Those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments should factor in the potential for extended travel times and the need for reliable **transportation**. Considering the proximity of medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing services is paramount.

Furthermore, the local community and healthcare providers could benefit from initiatives that improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for increased public transit frequency, promoting telehealth services, and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments. Addressing these issues would contribute to a higher "Overall Health Score" and enhance the quality of life for all residents of Bellport.