11786, Shoreham, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11786, Shoreham, New York is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.84 percent of residents in 11786 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is John T Mather Memorial Hospital Of Port Jefferson with a distance of 7.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Shoreham, NY (ZIP Code 11786)

Considering a move to the charming coastal community of Shoreham, New York, and prioritizing your overall health? Understanding healthcare access is paramount. This comprehensive analysis, a crucial aspect of your decision-making process, provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 11786, encompassing transportation options, drive times, and accessibility features.

Shoreham, nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, offers a serene lifestyle. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services. This score is not a single number but a holistic assessment of various factors impacting healthcare accessibility.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Shoreham is, unsurprisingly, personal vehicles. The primary arteries for travel are the William Floyd Parkway (County Route 46), the primary north-south thoroughfare, and the Long Island Expressway (LIE) or Interstate 495, a major east-west route. Drive times are significantly affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

Reaching the nearest hospitals, like Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, requires navigating the William Floyd Parkway, typically a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Further afield, Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center, is accessible via the LIE and typically requires a 30-45 minute drive.

The LIE, while efficient in off-peak hours, can become a parking lot during rush hour, particularly eastbound in the mornings and westbound in the evenings. This congestion directly impacts healthcare access, potentially delaying appointments or emergency care. The smaller roads, like North Country Road, offer alternative routes, but these can be slower and less direct.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Shoreham are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) operates several bus routes serving the area. However, these routes are infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings, and often require transfers.

The S60 bus route, for example, provides service along William Floyd Parkway, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities in Riverhead. The S92 route provides service to the Port Jefferson train station, offering a connection to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). This is a longer route, but it can provide access to healthcare facilities further west.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. While SCT buses are generally equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, the limited frequency and potential for long travel times can still present challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The walk from the bus stop to the medical facility can also be a factor.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Shoreham, providing an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing during peak demand can also make these services expensive.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing non-emergency medical transport, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local private companies, provide door-to-door transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While more reliable than ride-sharing, these services can be costly and often require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access: Evaluating the Options**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Shoreham, considering the available transportation options, is moderately impacted by the limitations. While driving provides the most direct and flexible access, traffic congestion and distance can be significant barriers. Public transportation offers a limited alternative, with accessibility challenges and infrequent service. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options, but they are subject to availability and cost considerations.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

Several factors influence the "Overall Health Score." Drive times, especially during peak hours, are a primary concern. The frequency and reliability of public transportation routes are critical. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services also play a significant role. The distance to various healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, urgent care centers, and hospitals, is a key factor.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Shoreham**

For individuals considering moving to Shoreham and prioritizing healthcare access, careful planning is essential. Prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities when choosing a home. Consider the availability of reliable transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation.

Assess your individual healthcare needs and ensure that the available transportation options can meet those needs. If you rely on public transportation, familiarize yourself with the bus routes and schedules. If you anticipate needing medical transportation, research local providers and understand their services and costs.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Options**

Shoreham offers a desirable lifestyle, but healthcare access requires thoughtful consideration. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need to balance the benefits of a tranquil environment with the challenges of accessing essential medical services. By carefully evaluating transportation options, drive times, and healthcare facility locations, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure their healthcare needs are met. The key to successful healthcare access in Shoreham lies in proactive planning and a realistic understanding of the available transportation infrastructure. The best way to ensure healthcare access is to plan ahead and consider all options.