11754, Kings Park, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11754, Kings Park, New York is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.73 percent of residents in 11754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Catherine Of Siena Hospital with a distance of 2.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Kings Park (ZIP Code 11754)

Kings Park, nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, offers a tranquil suburban life. However, when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 11754, focusing on the ease of commute to various healthcare facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The overall score is a composite of several factors: drive times to key healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport. Each element contributes to the overall ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical services, impacting the quality of life for residents.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Kings Park's geographical location significantly impacts drive times. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the **Sunken Meadow State Parkway**, the **Long Island Expressway (LIE)**, and **Route 25A**. The **Sunken Meadow State Parkway** provides direct access to the north, while the LIE serves as the major east-west corridor. Route 25A, a more scenic route, offers a slower, but sometimes less congested, alternative.

Drive times fluctuate dramatically based on the time of day, day of the week, and even the season. Rush hour, particularly on the LIE, can transform a 15-minute drive into an hour-long ordeal. Conversely, off-peak hours offer significantly faster transit times. The distance to major hospitals like **Stony Brook University Hospital** is approximately 10-15 miles, translating to a 20-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. **John T. Mather Memorial Hospital** in Port Jefferson is closer, about 5-7 miles, typically resulting in a 15-25 minute drive.

Smaller clinics and specialized medical practices are scattered throughout the region, offering varied drive times. Considering the potential for unexpected medical needs, the variability in drive times necessitates careful planning and consideration when evaluating healthcare access in Kings Park.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag:**

Public transportation options in Kings Park, while present, are not as robust as in more urban areas. The **Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)** offers service at the Kings Park station, providing a direct route to New York City and connections to other Long Island destinations. However, the LIRR's primary function is commuting to the city, and its usefulness for local healthcare access is limited.

The **Suffolk County Transit** bus system provides local service, but its routes and schedules may not always align perfectly with healthcare needs. Several bus routes serve the Kings Park area, including the **S58**, **S92**, and **S94**. These routes connect to hospitals and medical facilities in neighboring towns. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical concern. Most Suffolk County Transit buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the frequency of service and the distance between bus stops can pose challenges for some residents.

Navigating the public transportation system requires careful planning. Checking schedules, considering transfer times, and factoring in potential delays are essential for a smooth journey to healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Kings Park, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transportation. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. Ride-sharing provides a convenient option for reaching medical appointments, although surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical transport services specifically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **American Medical Response** offer specialized transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot travel independently.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Kings Park (11754) is moderately positive. The area offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, but it is not without its challenges. The availability of various transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides residents with choices. However, the reliance on driving, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential for traffic congestion can impact the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare.

**Factors influencing the score:**

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Kings Park is reasonably close to hospitals and medical centers.
* **Drive times:** Drive times are manageable, but subject to traffic variations.
* **Public transportation:** Public transit is available, but limited in scope and frequency.
* **Ride-sharing and medical transport:** These services provide viable alternatives, particularly for those with specific needs.

**Recommendations for prospective residents:**

* Assess your individual healthcare needs and transportation requirements.
* Factor in potential traffic delays when planning medical appointments.
* Familiarize yourself with the Suffolk County Transit bus routes and schedules.
* Consider the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* Evaluate the proximity of your home to essential healthcare providers.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Kings Park offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to healthcare. While the transportation landscape presents some challenges, the availability of diverse options allows residents to access essential medical services. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are crucial for ensuring seamless healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a healthy and fulfilling life in this charming Long Island community. The overall health score reflects the reality: Kings Park provides healthcare access, but residents must actively manage their transportation to ensure timely and efficient medical care.