11789, Sound Beach, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11789, Sound Beach, New York is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.18 percent of residents in 11789 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is John T Mather Memorial Hospital Of Port Jefferson with a distance of 3.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sound Beach (ZIP Code 11789)

Sound Beach, a charming hamlet nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, offers a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, when considering a move, prospective residents must carefully evaluate their **healthcare access**. This assessment provides an **Overall Health Score** for ZIP Code 11789, examining the complexities of **transportation** and its impact on reaching essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative methods, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for residents.

The cornerstone of this analysis lies in understanding the primary arteries that connect Sound Beach to vital medical facilities. The primary route to most healthcare destinations involves navigating the Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as Interstate 495. This major highway, while offering speed, is notorious for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Heading west on the LIE provides access to hospitals and specialists in Smithtown, Stony Brook, and further afield.

Another crucial thoroughfare is Route 25A, a scenic but often slower alternative. This route offers a more direct path to some medical offices and urgent care facilities in the immediate vicinity, like Miller Place and Rocky Point. However, it can be a less reliable option during inclement weather or heavy traffic. The journey south on William Floyd Parkway provides access to facilities in Shirley and Patchogue, although this route can also be subject to delays.

Drive times, therefore, become a critical factor. During off-peak hours, a drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center, might take approximately 20-30 minutes via the LIE. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to an hour or more. Similarly, reaching Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson, a closer option, might take 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions, but can double or triple during peak traffic. The drive to Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead would take about 30 minutes off-peak, but could extend to an hour or more depending on traffic conditions.

Public **transportation** offers an alternative, though its availability and efficiency are limited in this suburban setting. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides service from the nearby stations of Wading River or Port Jefferson. While the LIRR can be a reliable option for reaching Manhattan or other major hubs, its utility for local healthcare access is less direct. Passengers would need to transfer to local buses or utilize ride-sharing services to reach hospitals and medical offices from the train stations.

Suffolk County Transit operates several bus routes that serve the Sound Beach area. The S60 route connects Sound Beach to Port Jefferson, providing access to medical offices and the LIRR station. The S78 route offers service to the nearby towns of Rocky Point and Miller Place, which also have some medical facilities. However, bus frequency can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends, potentially impacting **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. Suffolk County Transit strives to provide accessible buses, with ramps and designated seating. The LIRR also offers accessible stations and trains. However, individuals with mobility limitations may still face challenges navigating the distance between bus stops or train stations and medical facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand, and costs can fluctuate. However, ride-sharing provides a more direct and flexible alternative to public transit, especially for reaching medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or those needing assistance, are available. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services offer convenience and specialized care, they can be more expensive than other options, and booking in advance is usually required. Some of the medical **transportation** brands serving the area include: Medical Transportation Services of Long Island, and Access Ride.

The **Overall Health Score** for Sound Beach, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the area boasts a relatively safe and pleasant environment, **healthcare access** is significantly influenced by **transportation** challenges. Drive times can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. Public transit, while available, has limitations in terms of frequency and connectivity. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer viable alternatives, but they come with added costs.

For individuals considering **moving to Sound Beach**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** preferences is essential. Those who rely on frequent medical appointments or have mobility limitations should carefully weigh the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare. Proximity to medical facilities, the availability of reliable **transportation**, and the ability to navigate traffic congestion are all crucial factors.

Ultimately, the **Overall Health Score** for Sound Beach reflects a need for careful planning and consideration. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, residents must be prepared to navigate the complexities of **transportation** to ensure timely and convenient access to essential medical services. This underscores the importance of understanding the local **transportation** landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs. The score suggests that while access is available, it requires effort and consideration, particularly during peak hours and for those reliant on public transit or specialized **transportation** services.