11738, Farmingville, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11738, Farmingville, New York is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.57 percent of residents in 11738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 5.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Farmingville (ZIP Code 11738)

Farmingville, New York (ZIP Code 11738), offers a suburban lifestyle with a blend of residential areas and commercial hubs. However, prospective residents considering a move to Farmingville, especially those prioritizing healthcare access, must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. This assessment, focusing on commute times, available modes of transportation, and accessibility, aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities from various points within the ZIP code. This score considers the crucial link between accessible healthcare and overall well-being, a critical factor for anyone planning a move.

The foundation of this analysis lies in understanding the primary transportation arteries serving Farmingville. The Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) forms a significant barrier, often congested, particularly during peak hours. The Sunrise Highway (NY-27) provides an alternative east-west route, though it too can experience delays. North-south travel is primarily facilitated by routes like County Road 83 (Patchogue-Holbrook Road) and Horseblock Road. These roadways, while offering direct access, are prone to traffic congestion, especially near shopping centers and intersections.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on location within Farmingville and the destination. The nearest hospitals, such as Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue and Stony Brook University Hospital, are within a reasonable driving distance. However, the LIE and Sunrise Highway's congestion can significantly extend travel times, especially during rush hour. A trip to Long Island Community Hospital, typically a 15-20 minute drive under ideal conditions, can easily stretch to 45 minutes or more during peak traffic. Similarly, reaching Stony Brook University Hospital, a more distant destination, could take over an hour, impacting the overall health score.

Public transportation presents an alternative, though its availability and efficiency are limited in this suburban setting. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system provides bus service within the region. Several routes, including the S61, S63, and S69, serve areas within and around Farmingville. However, these routes often operate with limited frequency, especially on weekends and evenings. Furthermore, the routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers and extending travel times. ADA accessibility is a standard feature across the SCT bus fleet, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service.

The integration of public transit with healthcare access is a vital component of the overall health score. While SCT buses offer a viable option for some, the infrequent service and potential for lengthy travel times can pose challenges, particularly for those requiring urgent care or regular medical appointments. The availability of accessible transportation is a significant factor in the overall health score, directly impacting the ability of residents to access necessary medical services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, bypassing the constraints of fixed bus schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services is generally good in the Farmingville area, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs, impacting the overall health score.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Services of Long Island offer dedicated transportation for patients with specific needs, including those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with boarding and disembarking. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing specialized medical transport. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a medical facility; it also encompasses the ease of navigating the healthcare system. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance is crucial. Farmingville itself has a mix of medical practices, but residents may need to travel to neighboring towns for specialized care. The proximity of healthcare facilities and the availability of appointments also influence the overall health score.

The physical environment within Farmingville also plays a role. Sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure are essential for those who may choose to walk or use mobility devices. The availability of safe and accessible pedestrian routes to bus stops or medical facilities can significantly enhance the overall health score.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Farmingville (ZIP Code 11738) is, therefore, a nuanced assessment. While the area benefits from proximity to major roadways and the availability of various transportation options, the potential for traffic congestion, limited public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing services present challenges. The overall health score would be improved with enhanced public transit, increased pedestrian infrastructure, and a wider range of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity.

For individuals considering moving to Farmingville, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual needs, including their mobility limitations, frequency of medical appointments, and budget constraints. Evaluating the drive times to their preferred healthcare providers, assessing the feasibility of using public transit or ride-sharing services, and considering the availability of specialized medical transportation are all essential steps.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" reflects the complex interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and individual well-being. While Farmingville offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, prospective residents must proactively assess the transportation challenges and healthcare access opportunities to ensure a healthy and fulfilling life in their new community. The ability to efficiently and affordably access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of overall health, and a clear understanding of these factors is paramount for anyone considering a move to Farmingville.