11725, Commack, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11725, Commack, New York is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.68 percent of residents in 11725 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pilgrim Psychiatric Center with a distance of 2.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11725

The health and well-being of residents in Commack, New York (ZIP Code 11725), are inextricably linked to their ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of medical facilities, considering the various transportation options available. We’ll delve into the nuances of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Commack and prioritizing healthcare access.

Commack, a vibrant suburban community, benefits from its proximity to New York City while maintaining a distinct identity. Its location on Long Island, however, necessitates navigating the complexities of regional transportation to reach essential healthcare services. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the ease or difficulty of this navigation, impacting the quality of life for Commack residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Commack residents is the personal vehicle. This reliance on cars significantly influences healthcare access. Drive times vary considerably depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. The Long Island Expressway (LIE) or Interstate 495, the primary artery connecting Commack to the rest of Long Island and New York City, can be a double-edged sword. While offering direct routes, the LIE is notorious for congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Traveling east on the LIE provides relatively swift access to hospitals and medical centers in Smithtown, such as St. Catherine of Siena Hospital. The trip can take as little as 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours, but easily doubles or triples during rush hour. Westbound on the LIE offers access to hospitals in Huntington and beyond, including Huntington Hospital, a larger facility with a wider range of specialties. This journey, however, often involves navigating heavier traffic, extending travel times to 30-45 minutes or more.

Beyond the LIE, major roadways like Jericho Turnpike (Route 25) and Veterans Memorial Highway (Route 454) provide alternative routes to healthcare facilities. Jericho Turnpike offers access to local medical offices and urgent care centers, while Veterans Memorial Highway connects to hospitals further south. These routes, while less prone to the gridlock of the LIE, can still experience significant delays, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times.

**Public Transportation Options:**

For those without access to a personal vehicle, public transportation presents another avenue for healthcare access. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a convenient option, with the Commack station providing access to the Ronkonkoma line. However, the station is not directly located in Commack. Residents must utilize local bus routes or ride-sharing services to reach the station.

The LIRR provides express service to New York City, where numerous hospitals and medical centers are readily available. The trip to Manhattan can take approximately an hour, making it a viable option for specialized care or appointments with specialists. However, this option requires a transfer from the train to other modes of transport, such as the subway, adding to the overall travel time and complexity.

Suffolk County Transit operates several bus routes that serve Commack. The S58, S59, and S61 provide connections to nearby towns and villages, including Huntington, Smithtown, and Hauppauge. These routes offer access to local medical facilities and connect to the LIRR. Unfortunately, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially hindering healthcare access for those relying on public transit.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility features are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While the LIRR stations and buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps, elevators, and designated seating, the availability and reliability of these features can vary. Residents with disabilities should confirm the accessibility of specific routes and stations before planning their healthcare journeys.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering flexibility and convenience. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the expense.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like Senior Care Transportation and First Class Medical Transportation provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services offer a higher level of care and assistance, but they also come with a premium price tag.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services in Commack is generally good, but it is crucial to book these services in advance, especially for appointments during peak hours. The reliability of these services can also be affected by weather conditions and traffic congestion.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Commack:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 11725 reflects a mixed picture. While Commack offers a range of transportation options, each has its limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on the LIE and other roadways can impact drive times and healthcare access. Public transit, while available, has limitations in terms of frequency and accessibility. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide viable alternatives but come with associated costs.

For individuals considering moving to Commack, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation preferences is essential. Those who rely on frequent medical appointments should consider the proximity of healthcare facilities and the reliability of their chosen transportation methods. Individuals with mobility limitations should prioritize ADA-compliant transportation options and investigate the availability of medical transport services.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Commack highlights the importance of proactive planning and awareness. By understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, residents can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the care they need. The community’s health is directly tied to its ability to connect residents with the services they require, making transportation infrastructure and availability a critical component of overall well-being.