11746, Huntington Station, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11746, Huntington Station, New York is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.29 percent of residents in 11746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ns/Lij Hs Huntington Hospital with a distance of 4.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Huntington Station (ZIP Code 11746)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Huntington Station, ZIP Code 11746, necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical component of this evaluation is the ease with which individuals can *transport* themselves to appointments, treatments, and preventative care. This write-up will explore the various *transportation* options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical *transportation*, to provide a comprehensive understanding of *healthcare access* challenges and opportunities within this community. This information is particularly relevant for those *moving to Huntington Station*, seeking to understand the local landscape.

The primary determinant of *healthcare access* in Huntington Station is the availability of *transportation*. For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495, and the Northern State Parkway. The LIE, while offering swift travel, is notorious for congestion, particularly during peak hours. Delays can significantly impact appointment adherence and increase stress levels, negatively affecting overall health. The Northern State Parkway offers an alternative route, often less congested, but its limited access points can necessitate longer travel distances depending on the origin and destination.

Local roads like Jericho Turnpike (Route 25) and New York Avenue (Route 231) serve as crucial connectors, providing access to local medical offices and hospitals. These roads, however, are often plagued by traffic lights and stop-and-go traffic, further extending travel times. The condition of these roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also impact the comfort and safety of the journey, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those seeking specialized medical care.

Public *transportation* presents another crucial avenue for *healthcare access*. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a direct link to New York City, offering access to a wider array of specialized medical facilities. The Huntington Station LIRR station is a central hub, but the frequency of trains, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor. Furthermore, the distance from the station to medical facilities can require further *transportation*, such as a taxi, ride-share, or bus, adding to the overall travel time and complexity.

Suffolk County Transit operates several bus routes that serve Huntington Station, including the S1, S5, and S20, connecting residents to local hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices. These routes offer a cost-effective option, but the frequency of service and the potential for delays due to traffic can present challenges. The S1, for example, runs along Jericho Turnpike, a route prone to congestion. The S5 provides access to Huntington Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the area. The S20 connects to the Commack area, offering more options for medical services.

The accessibility of public *transportation* is also influenced by the availability of ADA-compliant features. Ensuring that buses and train stations are equipped with ramps, elevators, and other accommodations is crucial for individuals with disabilities. This is a critical factor in determining the overall health score, as it directly impacts the ability of vulnerable populations to access necessary medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle or who prefer not to drive. These services can provide door-to-door *transportation*, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or rely on friends and family. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, and the availability of drivers, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas, can be unpredictable.

Medical *transportation* services, such as MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR), cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT) services. These services are particularly valuable for those who require assistance getting to and from appointments, such as individuals with mobility issues or those who are recovering from surgery. The availability and cost of these services are crucial factors in determining the overall health score, as they directly impact the ability of vulnerable populations to access necessary medical care.

The proximity of medical facilities to Huntington Station residents plays a significant role in *healthcare access*. Huntington Hospital is a major healthcare provider, offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and preventative care. Several smaller clinics and doctor's offices are also located within the community, providing convenient access to primary care and specialized medical services. However, the availability of specialists, particularly in certain areas of medicine, may require travel to facilities outside of Huntington Station.

The overall health score for *healthcare access* in Huntington Station is a complex calculation. It is influenced by the efficiency of *transportation* options, the cost of services, the availability of ADA-compliant features, and the proximity of medical facilities. Residents *moving to Huntington Station* should carefully consider these factors when assessing their *healthcare access* options. The ability to navigate the local *transportation* landscape is a critical determinant of their overall health and well-being.

The challenges and opportunities for *healthcare access* in Huntington Station are intertwined with the community's *transportation* infrastructure. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving public *transportation* services, expanding the availability of ride-sharing options, and promoting the use of medical *transportation* services. Furthermore, investing in road infrastructure and ensuring the accessibility of medical facilities are crucial steps in improving the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 11746. This will ultimately contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.