11752, Islip Terrace, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11752, Islip Terrace, New York is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.20 percent of residents in 11752 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ns/Lij Hs Southside Hospital with a distance of 3.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Islip Terrace (ZIP Code 11752)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the charming hamlet of Islip Terrace, nestled within the larger town of Islip in Suffolk County, New York (ZIP Code 11752), the ease with which residents can reach medical services is a crucial factor in their overall well-being. This comprehensive analysis, resulting in an “Overall Health Score,” will delve into the various transportation options available, dissecting their strengths and weaknesses to paint a vivid picture of healthcare access in this community. The score will consider drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding for potential residents, and current community members alike.

The primary mode of transportation for many Islip Terrace residents is the personal vehicle. The strategic location of the community, offering easy access to major roadways, is a significant advantage. The **Sunrise Highway (NY-27)** provides a direct east-west artery, facilitating swift travel to hospitals and medical facilities in both directions. Heading west, the highway leads towards the bustling medical hubs of Bay Shore and beyond, while eastward journeys connect to facilities in Sayville and Patchogue. The **Southern State Parkway** is another critical route, offering a more direct, albeit often congested, alternative for westward travel.

Local roads, such as **Manor Lane** and **Islip Avenue**, serve as vital connectors to these major arteries and the network of medical offices dispersed throughout the area. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Rush hour on the Sunrise Highway and Southern State Parkway can transform a 15-minute journey into a frustrating 45-minute crawl. Therefore, residents must factor in these potential delays when planning medical appointments.

Public transportation, while present, presents a more complex picture. The **Suffolk County Transit (SCT)** operates several bus routes that serve Islip Terrace. The **SCT Route 3A** provides service along Montauk Highway, offering connections to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) at the Islip station. The **SCT Route 53** travels north and south, providing access to the South Shore University Hospital and other medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating accessibility challenges.

The LIRR, while offering a more rapid transit option, requires a transfer from the Islip station, adding to the overall travel time. The Islip station itself boasts ADA-compliant features, including ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate the transit system with greater ease. However, the distance from the station to various medical facilities may necessitate further transportation, adding to the complexity of the journey.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services are readily available in Islip Terrace, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits. Furthermore, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially creating delays or making it difficult to secure a ride when needed.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients can reach their appointments safely and comfortably. While these services offer a valuable lifeline for certain individuals, they often come with a higher price tag than other transportation options.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Islip Terrace itself is a significant factor in the overall health score. While the community may not boast a major hospital within its borders, a variety of medical offices, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers, are located in the surrounding areas. This proximity reduces travel times for routine appointments and allows for quick access to medical attention when needed.

The demographics of Islip Terrace also play a role in the health score. The aging population, a common trend in many Long Island communities, may require more frequent medical care and increased reliance on transportation services. The availability of senior-friendly transportation options, such as specialized medical transport and accessible public transit, is therefore crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of this demographic.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Islip Terrace, ZIP Code 11752, is a mixed bag. The community benefits from its location, offering easy access to major roadways, and a network of medical offices in the surrounding areas. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on the Sunrise Highway and Southern State Parkway can impact drive times. Public transit, while available, has limitations in terms of frequency and connectivity. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but the cost and availability can be a concern. Specialized medical transport provides a valuable service for those with specific needs, but at a higher cost.

Considering all these factors, the Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Islip Terrace, ZIP Code 11752, can be rated as **Moderate to Good**. While the community offers a reasonable level of access to healthcare, improvements in public transit frequency, the availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and the expansion of medical facilities within the immediate vicinity could significantly enhance the overall health score, making Islip Terrace an even more attractive place to live, especially for those considering moving to Islip Terrace. The town is working hard to improve transportation options, and the future looks promising.