11946, Hampton Bays, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11946, Hampton Bays, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.34 percent of residents in 11946 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 8.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11946 (Hampton Bays, NY)

The pursuit of optimal health requires more than just access to medical professionals; it demands ease of access. This report meticulously examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding Hampton Bays, New York (ZIP Code 11946), evaluating its impact on residents' healthcare access. Understanding the nuances of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods is crucial for anyone considering moving to Hampton Bays or seeking to maximize their health outcomes within the community. We’ll delve into the specifics of transportation, the lifeblood of healthcare access, providing a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

**Drive Time Analysis: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

The primary thoroughfare serving Hampton Bays is the **Sunrise Highway (NY-27)**. This major east-west artery is the lifeline for residents seeking healthcare beyond the immediate vicinity. Drive times to medical facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours and seasonal influxes.

For residents of Hampton Bays, the closest significant healthcare hub is **Southampton Hospital**, located approximately 10-15 minutes west via the Sunrise Highway. This drive is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion can add delays, especially during summer weekends when the population swells.

Traveling further west, to **Peconic Bay Medical Center** in Riverhead, a journey of roughly 30-45 minutes via the Sunrise Highway and then the **Wading River Manor Road** is expected. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, considering potential traffic bottlenecks.

Heading east, access to healthcare facilities is more limited. The drive to **Eastern Long Island Hospital** in Greenport is a considerable undertaking, typically requiring 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This route often involves navigating the Sunrise Highway and then local roads like **County Road 39**.

The condition of the roads, including maintenance and potential construction zones, also impacts drive times. Residents should remain informed about road closures and delays, using real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to optimize their routes. This awareness is critical for timely access to healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Essential Option**

Public transportation in Hampton Bays, while limited, offers a vital alternative, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. The **Suffolk County Transit (SCT)** provides bus service throughout the region, including routes that serve Hampton Bays and connect it to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities.

The **SCT Route 70** is the primary bus route serving Hampton Bays. This route travels along the Sunrise Highway, providing access to various medical offices and connecting to other routes that can facilitate travel to Southampton Hospital. However, the frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

The **SCT Route 70** offers limited ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible buses on every trip is not guaranteed. Riders with disabilities should confirm accessibility before their journey.

Other SCT routes, such as the **Route 71** and **Route 72**, can be used to connect to other healthcare facilities, but these routes may require transfers and extend travel times significantly.

The **Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)** does not directly serve Hampton Bays. The nearest LIRR station is in Southampton, requiring a drive or a connection via SCT bus or taxi. This adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access via public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Hampton Bays and offer a convenient option for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, a common feature of ride-sharing services, can also increase the cost of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, are also available. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation and may be equipped with specialized features, such as wheelchair lifts. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including **Ambu-Ride** and **CareRide**.

These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they provide a crucial service for individuals who cannot drive or use standard transportation options. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for appointments requiring specialized medical equipment.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Hampton Bays (ZIP Code 11946) is moderately positive, with strengths and weaknesses. The proximity to Southampton Hospital is a significant advantage, providing relatively quick access to emergency care and routine medical services. However, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents.

The long commute times to other healthcare facilities, particularly to the east, are a concern. Residents needing specialized care or those living further from Southampton Hospital should factor in the potential for extended travel times.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability can be limitations.

**Factors to Consider When Moving to Hampton Bays**

Individuals considering moving to Hampton Bays must carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the limitations of the SCT bus service and the availability of medical transportation.

Families with young children should consider the proximity to pediatric care and the ease of transportation to appointments. Seniors should assess their ability to drive or utilize alternative transportation options, especially given potential age-related mobility challenges.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not a static measure. It can be improved by investing in public transportation infrastructure, increasing the frequency of bus service, and promoting ride-sharing and medical transport options.

**Conclusion**

Healthcare access in Hampton Bays is a multifaceted issue, intertwined with transportation infrastructure and the needs of the community. While the location offers proximity to Southampton Hospital, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. By understanding the nuances of drive times, public transit routes, ride-share options, and medical transport services, residents can proactively manage their healthcare access and optimize their health outcomes. Planning and awareness are key to ensuring seamless transportation to healthcare appointments, making Hampton Bays a desirable place to live.