11569, Point Lookout, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11569, Point Lookout, New York is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.00 percent of residents in 11569 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Sinai South Nassau with a distance of 5.04 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Point Lookout, NY (ZIP Code 11569)

The journey to healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like prostate cancer, is more than just a medical procedure; it’s a complex navigation of logistics, emotions, and the often-overlooked element of *transportation*. For residents of Point Lookout, New York (ZIP Code 11569), a slender barrier island community, this navigation presents unique challenges. This write-up analyzes the landscape of *healthcare access* for prostate cancer patients, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport, ultimately providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential care.

Point Lookout’s isolation, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Jones Inlet, significantly impacts *transportation* choices. The primary arteries connecting the community to the mainland are Lido Boulevard and the Meadowbrook State Parkway. While Lido Boulevard offers a more direct route, it can be congested, particularly during peak hours and summer weekends. The Meadowbrook State Parkway, a limited-access highway, provides a faster, albeit potentially longer, alternative.

The closest major medical facilities, essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, are located in neighboring towns. Long Beach Medical Center, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Lido Boulevard or the Meadowbrook State Parkway (depending on traffic), is a crucial point of access. For more specialized care, including radiation oncology and advanced surgical procedures, patients often need to travel further.

Northwell Health’s facilities, including South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore and Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, are viable options, requiring significantly longer travel times. Expect a 45-60 minute drive to Bay Shore via the Meadowbrook State Parkway and the Southern State Parkway, and a 60-90 minute drive to New Hyde Park, navigating the Meadowbrook and the Northern State Parkway. These estimates, of course, are highly variable, influenced by rush hour, accidents, and seasonal traffic.

Public *transportation* options in Point Lookout are limited. The Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) bus system serves the area, but routes are infrequent and primarily connect to the Long Beach LIRR station. From there, patients can access the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), which provides service to New York City and other areas with advanced medical centers.

The NICE N33 bus route is the most relevant, offering service along Lido Boulevard and connecting to the Long Beach LIRR station. However, this route has limited service, particularly on weekends and evenings. Accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges is a critical consideration. While NICE buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, the infrequent service and potential for transfers can pose significant difficulties for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects. The LIRR, while offering more frequent service, requires a transfer from the bus, adding to the complexity.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Point Lookout. However, their reliability and cost can vary. During peak hours, surge pricing can significantly increase the cost of a ride, potentially creating a financial burden for patients. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening, can also be unpredictable.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, offer another option. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained attendants. These services can be valuable for patients who cannot drive or are unable to use public *transportation*. However, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public *transportation*.

The availability of medical *transportation* is a crucial factor in assessing *healthcare access*. For prostate cancer patients, especially those undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, regular and reliable *transportation* is essential. The ability to attend appointments without undue stress or physical strain significantly impacts the patient’s quality of life and adherence to treatment plans.

The unique geography of Point Lookout, being a barrier island, presents additional challenges. Ferry service is not available, and the single road access makes the community vulnerable to traffic disruptions caused by accidents or inclement weather. This isolation can further exacerbate the difficulties of accessing healthcare.

Considering all these factors, we can formulate a "Prostate Cancer Score" for Point Lookout, NY. This score will reflect the overall ease or difficulty of accessing prostate cancer care, taking into account the following: drive times, public *transportation* accessibility, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical *transportation*.

**Prostate Cancer Score for Point Lookout (ZIP Code 11569): 6.5/10**

This score reflects a moderate level of *healthcare access* for prostate cancer patients in Point Lookout. The proximity to Long Beach Medical Center offers a crucial advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public *transportation* options, and the potential for traffic congestion reduce the overall score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services provides alternative options, but their cost and reliability are factors to consider.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Advocate for increased NICE bus service:** Expanding the frequency and hours of the N33 route would significantly improve *transportation* options for residents.
* **Explore partnerships with medical *transportation* providers:** Negotiating discounted rates or subsidized services for prostate cancer patients could alleviate financial burdens.
* **Promote telehealth options:** Encourage the use of telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments and consultations, reducing the need for in-person visits.
* **Community outreach and education:** Providing information about available *transportation* resources, financial assistance programs, and support groups can empower patients to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

For individuals *moving to Point Lookout* and those already residing there, understanding the *transportation* landscape is crucial when considering prostate cancer care. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and proactively addressing *transportation* challenges can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure access to timely and effective treatment. While Point Lookout offers a unique coastal lifestyle, its geographical isolation demands careful consideration of the logistical complexities of *healthcare access*.