11935, Cutchogue, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11935, Cutchogue, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.57 percent of residents in 11935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 11.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Cutchogue, NY (ZIP Code 11935)

Embarking on a move to the charming hamlet of Cutchogue, New York, within the 11935 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of considerations, particularly when assessing the overall health score. This score, reflecting ease of access to essential healthcare services, is profoundly influenced by the prevailing transportation landscape. The journey to quality medical care in this picturesque North Fork community involves a nuanced interplay of driving times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone contemplating a relocation, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The primary mode of transportation in Cutchogue, as in much of Long Island, is the personal automobile. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor in the overall health score. Residents rely heavily on **County Road 48**, the main thoroughfare, which can experience congestion during peak hours, especially in the summer months. This can extend travel times to hospitals and specialist offices. Heading west, the drive to Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, a primary healthcare hub, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Further west, Stony Brook University Hospital, a major tertiary care center, is approximately an hour's drive, primarily utilizing the **Long Island Expressway (LIE) / I-495** and the **William Floyd Parkway**.

Traveling east, the nearest urgent care facilities and smaller medical practices are generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, offering convenient options for immediate needs. However, access to specialized care, such as oncology or cardiology, often necessitates travel further afield, potentially increasing travel times and adding to the stress of seeking medical attention.

Public transportation presents a less robust option for healthcare access in Cutchogue. The **Suffolk County Transit (SCT)** system provides bus service, but routes are limited, and frequency can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. The primary route serving the area is the **SCT S92**, which travels along County Road 48. This route offers a connection to Riverhead, where transfers to other routes are available, including those that may eventually reach Stony Brook.

However, the **SCT S92** schedule may not align perfectly with medical appointment times, and the journey can be lengthy, especially when factoring in transfer times. ADA accessibility is a consideration, as all SCT buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. Despite these features, the limited frequency and route coverage pose a challenge for those who rely on public transit for their healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cutchogue, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, a common practice during periods of high demand, can also make ride-sharing an expensive option, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This financial burden can significantly impact the overall health score for residents with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with mobility challenges or those requiring specialized assistance, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. While offering a valuable service, these options can be costly and may require advance booking. The selection of medical transport brands in the area includes, but is not limited to, **MedStar Transportation** and **CareRide**. These services are vital for those unable to drive or utilize public transit, but their cost adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.

The overall health score in Cutchogue is also influenced by the proximity of pharmacies, diagnostic centers, and other ancillary healthcare services. While the area has a good selection of pharmacies, access to specialized diagnostic facilities might necessitate travel outside the immediate vicinity. This adds to the overall time commitment and potential stress associated with healthcare access.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for Cutchogue residents, particularly those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations, is somewhat moderate. While the area offers a pleasant environment and access to basic healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to seamless healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Cutchogue, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who drive will find the commute to healthcare facilities manageable, though traffic conditions should be considered. Individuals relying on public transit or ride-sharing should carefully evaluate the schedules, costs, and availability of these services.

The ongoing development of healthcare infrastructure and transportation options in the region could improve the overall health score in the future. This includes potential enhancements to the SCT system, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of medical transport options. The key to improving the health score lies in fostering a transportation network that prioritizes healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their mobility or financial circumstances.