11763, Medford, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11763, Medford, New York is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.35 percent of residents in 11763 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 3.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Medford, NY (ZIP Code 11763)

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when evaluating a community's overall health. For prospective residents considering moving to Medford, NY (ZIP Code 11763), a comprehensive assessment of transportation options to medical facilities is crucial. This analysis, focusing on commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, provides an “Overall Health Score” for this ZIP code, reflecting the accessibility of healthcare.

Medford, a Suffolk County hamlet, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its location, while offering a degree of suburban tranquility, necessitates navigating roads and considering alternative transportation methods for healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" considers the challenges and opportunities inherent in this environment.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Medford are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) and the Sunrise Highway (NY-27). Travel times fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. During peak hours, particularly weekdays, congestion on the LIE can transform a short drive into a lengthy ordeal. The Sunrise Highway, generally less congested, offers an alternative route, albeit with its own rush-hour bottlenecks.

For residents needing to reach facilities in Patchogue, such as Long Island Community Hospital, a drive time of 15-30 minutes is typical, depending on traffic. Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center in East Patchogue may require a 20-40 minute commute. These estimates assume ideal conditions; however, the reality of Long Island traffic necessitates factoring in potential delays.

Further afield, accessing hospitals in Smithtown or Stony Brook, such as Stony Brook University Hospital, can involve drives of 45 minutes to an hour or more, particularly during peak commuting times. This extended travel time significantly impacts the “Overall Health Score,” particularly for those requiring urgent or frequent medical attention. The ability to quickly reach a healthcare provider is a critical component of overall well-being.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides public transportation within Medford. The primary routes serving the area are the S61 and S63. While these routes offer a cost-effective alternative to driving, they present limitations regarding healthcare access. Frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, potentially hindering timely medical appointments.

Furthermore, the routes themselves may not directly serve all medical facilities. Transfers might be necessary, increasing travel time and complexity. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the overall reliance on buses for healthcare access presents a challenge, especially for those with mobility limitations or requiring immediate medical attention. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the importance of public transit but weighs its limitations in the context of healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Medford, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals with specific medical needs. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, ensuring rapid transport to the nearest hospital. NEMT services cater to individuals who require transportation to medical appointments but do not need an ambulance. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a more accessible option for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. The availability and efficiency of these services are critical factors influencing the "Overall Health Score."

**Specific Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Medford area. These include local ambulance services, such as those affiliated with the Medford Fire Department and neighboring fire departments. NEMT providers, like SeniorCare and other private companies, offer scheduled transportation to medical appointments. The quality and reliability of these services are vital for ensuring healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Medford, NY (ZIP Code 11763) is moderately impacted by transportation factors. While the availability of ride-sharing, medical transport, and public transit provides options, the reliance on roadways, particularly the LIE, and the limitations of public transit routes present challenges. The distance to some major medical facilities, combined with potential traffic delays, further influences the score.

**Moving to Medford and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Medford, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is vital. While the community offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the proximity of medical facilities. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly research the available routes and services.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static metric. Improvements in public transit, such as increased frequency or expanded routes, would positively impact the score. Similarly, advancements in traffic management on the LIE and Sunrise Highway could reduce commute times and improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Medford, NY (ZIP Code 11763), reflects a mixed picture. While options exist, the reliance on roadways and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and the proximity of medical facilities when evaluating the community. Understanding the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the realities of moving to Medford is essential for making an informed decision about one's overall well-being. The score highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access through enhanced transportation infrastructure and services.