11803, Plainview, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11803, Plainview, New York is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.90 percent of residents in 11803 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Plainview Hospital with a distance of 0.33 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Plainview, NY (ZIP Code 11803)

Considering a move to Plainview, New York (ZIP Code 11803)? Beyond the charm of suburban living, a crucial aspect to evaluate is your access to healthcare. This "Overall Health Score" analyzes the transportation landscape surrounding your potential new home, focusing on how easily you can reach medical facilities. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The foundation of healthcare access in Plainview rests upon its transportation infrastructure. The Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495, is the primary artery. It provides swift access to major medical centers, but it also presents a potential bottleneck during peak hours. The Northern State Parkway, running parallel to the LIE, offers an alternative route, often less congested, particularly for destinations further east or west. Local roads like Old Country Road, Manetto Hill Road, and Woodbury Road provide crucial links to local medical offices and pharmacies, contributing to the overall ease of navigating the area.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. Northwell Health's Plainview Hospital, a cornerstone of local healthcare, is conveniently located within the ZIP code. Reaching it is typically a short drive, minimizing travel time and stress. For specialized care or access to a wider range of services, residents might need to travel further. For example, North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, a major tertiary care center, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via the LIE or Northern State Parkway, depending on traffic. Similarly, NYU Langone Hospital – Long Island in Mineola is about a 15-25 minute drive.

Public transportation offers another avenue for healthcare access, although its availability is more limited in suburban areas like Plainview. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides a direct link to New York City, where a vast array of hospitals and medical specialists are available. The closest LIRR station is in Hicksville, a short drive or ride-share away. From Hicksville, commuters can take the train to Penn Station in Manhattan, connecting them to hospitals like New York-Presbyterian Hospital or Mount Sinai Hospital.

Bus service, operated by the Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE), is available but less frequent than the LIRR. Several NICE bus routes serve Plainview, including the N79, N70, and N71. These routes connect to nearby towns and medical facilities, but travel times can be significantly longer than driving. Accessibility features on NICE buses, such as ramps and priority seating, cater to passengers with disabilities, ensuring compliance with ADA regulations. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential for delays should be factored into your healthcare planning.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Plainview, providing an on-demand transportation option to healthcare appointments. These services offer convenience and flexibility, especially for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could increase the cost of transportation.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transportation, several options are available. Ambulance services, such as those provided by local fire departments and private companies, offer emergency transport to hospitals. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services cater to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like SeniorCare Transportation and MedTrans offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Plainview, NY (11803) is favorable. The area benefits from a well-developed road network, including the LIE and Northern State Parkway, providing relatively quick access to a variety of healthcare facilities. The presence of the LIRR and NICE bus routes offers alternative transportation options, although their limitations should be considered. Ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport further enhance accessibility, catering to diverse needs.

However, potential residents should acknowledge the challenges associated with suburban transportation. Traffic congestion, particularly on the LIE, can impact drive times. Public transit options are less frequent than in urban areas, and reliance on bus schedules may require careful planning. The cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate.

When moving to Plainview, it is essential to assess your individual healthcare needs and preferences. Consider the proximity of medical facilities to your potential home, the availability of transportation options that meet your needs, and the potential costs associated with transportation. If you or a family member require frequent medical appointments or have mobility limitations, the availability of specialized medical transport services is an important factor to consider.

In conclusion, Plainview offers a good level of healthcare access, but it is not without its nuances. The ease of transportation, the availability of healthcare options, and the ability to navigate the area will significantly influence your overall health and well-being. By carefully considering the transportation landscape, you can make an informed decision about whether Plainview is the right place to call home, ensuring that your healthcare needs are met efficiently and effectively.