11965, Shelter Island Heights, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11965, Shelter Island Heights, New York is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.18 percent of residents in 11965 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 19.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Shelter Island Heights (ZIP Code 11965)

The quaint charm of Shelter Island Heights, nestled within the embrace of Long Island's Peconic Bay, offers a unique allure for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle. However, the idyllic setting presents a crucial consideration: access to healthcare. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 11965, focusing on the multifaceted aspects of transportation to medical facilities. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for potential and current residents. The ease of getting to a doctor or hospital is a critical factor when **moving to Shelter Island Heights**.

The primary challenge lies in the island's geographical isolation. Reaching mainland medical facilities necessitates a ferry crossing, which inherently adds time and complexity to any healthcare journey. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect this reality, acknowledging the limitations while highlighting the available solutions.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The journey to healthcare begins with the roads. From Shelter Island Heights, the main route involves navigating the island's roads to the North Ferry terminal. This typically involves a short drive along Crescent Beach Road, then onto Grand Avenue, and finally to the ferry. The ferry crossing itself, a crucial component of the **transportation** equation, adds a significant block of time.

Once on the mainland, the primary artery for accessing healthcare is County Road 114, also known as the North Ferry Road. Depending on the destination, drivers might then utilize the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) or Route 27 (Sunrise Highway). The LIE provides access to hospitals and medical centers further west, while Route 27 serves facilities in the Southampton and East Hampton areas.

Drive times are highly variable, influenced by traffic, time of day, and the specific destination. A trip to Eastern Long Island Hospital in Greenport, the closest major medical facility, typically takes around 30 minutes, including the ferry crossing. Reaching Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead can take approximately an hour, assuming favorable traffic conditions. Accessing hospitals in Southampton or East Hampton, which offer a wider range of specialized services, may require a 1.5- to 2-hour journey.

The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the time investment required for these trips, recognizing the potential for delays and the impact on a patient's well-being. The **healthcare access** limitations are clear.

**Public Transit:**

Public transit options on Shelter Island are limited. Suffolk County Transit operates a bus route, the S92, which connects Shelter Island to the mainland ferry terminals. However, this service is infrequent and operates on a limited schedule, making it an unreliable option for urgent medical needs. The S92 does not provide direct access to hospitals or medical centers.

The ferry itself, while not strictly public transit, is a crucial component of the overall **transportation** infrastructure. The North Ferry Company provides regular service between Shelter Island and Greenport. The ferry operates on a frequent schedule, but the crossing time and potential wait times at the terminal must be factored into any healthcare journey.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on the ferry is generally good, with ramps and designated seating areas. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on the ferry create challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the constraints imposed by the limited public transit options and the dependence on the ferry.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate on Shelter Island and the surrounding mainland areas. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is, therefore, questionable.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and AMR (American Medical Response) provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve pre-arranged transportation to and from medical appointments. They offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, making them a valuable option for individuals with mobility challenges.

The cost of medical transportation services can be significant, and insurance coverage varies. The "Overall Health Score" will consider the cost and availability of these services, recognizing their importance for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. **Moving to Shelter Island Heights** requires understanding these factors.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 11965 reflects a mixed picture. The island's geographical isolation presents significant challenges, primarily due to the reliance on ferry crossings and the limited availability of public transit. Drive times to mainland medical facilities can be substantial, and the reliability of ride-sharing services is questionable.

However, the presence of medical transportation services and the availability of the North Ferry provide essential options. The proximity of Eastern Long Island Hospital in Greenport offers a readily accessible healthcare option for routine needs.

The "Overall Health Score" is therefore moderately impacted. While the island's natural beauty and tranquility are undeniable, potential residents must carefully consider the implications of limited **healthcare access** and the time commitment required for medical appointments. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, utilizing medical transportation services when needed, and understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing.

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP code 11965 serves as a critical assessment for those considering **moving to Shelter Island Heights**. It underscores the importance of understanding the **transportation** challenges and planning accordingly to ensure adequate access to healthcare. The score highlights the need for residents to prioritize their health and well-being by proactively addressing the challenges of healthcare access in this unique island community.