11727, Coram, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11727, Coram, New York is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.42 percent of residents in 11727 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is John T Mather Memorial Hospital Of Port Jefferson with a distance of 4.05 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Coram, NY (ZIP Code 11727)

The ability to access healthcare is a cornerstone of overall well-being. For residents of Coram, New York (ZIP Code 11727), the journey to receive necessary medical attention is a complex interplay of transportation options, distance, and available resources. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” by assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering the practical realities of commuting within and around this Suffolk County community. We will examine the available transportation infrastructure and services, providing insights for those considering moving to Coram, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

Coram, a suburban community, presents a mixed bag of transportation challenges and opportunities. The primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle. Several major roadways define the landscape, including the Long Island Expressway (LIE or I-495), the William Floyd Parkway, and Middle Country Road (Route 25). The LIE provides a crucial east-west artery, but its notorious traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times to healthcare providers located further afield. The William Floyd Parkway offers a more direct north-south route, while Middle Country Road provides access to local businesses, services, and some medical facilities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in determining healthcare access. For routine appointments, such as primary care physician visits, residents might find suitable options within a 15-20 minute drive, especially if they are located along Middle Country Road. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced imaging services, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals or medical centers located further west, potentially adding significant time to the commute. The drive to these facilities, especially during rush hour, can easily extend to 30-45 minutes, or even longer, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions on the LIE.

Public transportation, while available, presents limitations. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system provides bus service throughout the area, but its coverage is not as extensive as in more urbanized areas. Several routes serve Coram, including the S61, S63, and S69, connecting residents to neighboring towns and villages, and to transfer points for further travel. The S61 and S69 routes, in particular, offer connections to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) stations in Mastic-Shirley and Ronkonkoma, providing access to New York City and other areas.

However, the SCT system is not always ideal for healthcare access. Bus schedules may not align perfectly with medical appointment times, and the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited. Furthermore, the reliance on transfers can add significant travel time. While the SCT strives to be ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the physical limitations of bus travel and the potential for delays can still pose challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services are generally available in Coram, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or for individuals with limited financial resources. The availability of drivers can also vary, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. Ambulance services are essential for emergencies, while NEMT services are designed to transport individuals who require assistance but do not need emergency medical care. These services are typically arranged through healthcare providers or insurance companies. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the specific needs of the individual and the insurance coverage.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Coram itself is an important consideration. While the community has some local medical practices and urgent care centers, specialized services are often located outside of the immediate area. This necessitates travel to larger hospitals and medical centers, such as Stony Brook University Hospital or Long Island Community Hospital, both of which offer a comprehensive range of medical services. The drive times to these facilities, as previously mentioned, can be substantial, particularly during peak traffic periods.

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in Coram, NY (11727) is therefore a mixed bag. The presence of major roadways like the LIE and the William Floyd Parkway offers efficient travel, but the frequent traffic congestion, especially on the LIE, adds complexity. Public transit offers a cost-effective alternative, but its limited coverage and potential for delays can create challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options, but the costs and availability can be barriers. The availability of local healthcare facilities is a plus, but the need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Coram, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the associated transportation requirements is crucial. Those who rely on specialized medical care or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the drive times, public transportation options, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is a key factor in maintaining good health and well-being.

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in Coram reflects the complexities of modern suburban living. While the community offers a range of transportation options, the realities of traffic congestion, limited public transit, and the need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care create challenges. Residents must proactively plan their transportation strategies, considering their individual healthcare needs and resources. The ability to navigate these challenges is essential for ensuring timely and accessible healthcare, contributing to a higher quality of life for all residents.