11716, Bohemia, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11716, Bohemia, New York is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.88 percent of residents in 11716 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 6.91 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bohemia, NY (ZIP Code 11716)

Bohemia, New York, a vibrant Suffolk County community, offers a blend of suburban charm and convenient access to essential services. However, the reality of healthcare access, particularly for specialized needs like prostate cancer treatment, demands a nuanced understanding. This analysis explores the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 11716, aiming to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing necessary medical care. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial factors for individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis and its associated treatment regimen.

The importance of timely and consistent healthcare access cannot be overstated in the context of prostate cancer. Regular screenings, prompt diagnosis, and adherence to treatment plans are vital for successful outcomes. Factors like mobility limitations, fatigue, and the need for frequent appointments can significantly impact a patient's ability to navigate the transportation complexities. Therefore, a thorough examination of the transportation infrastructure is paramount when considering healthcare accessibility in Bohemia.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Bohemia, NY, will be based on a qualitative assessment of the following categories: Drive Time Accessibility, Public Transportation Feasibility, and Alternative Transportation Options. Each category will be evaluated based on its potential impact on a patient's ability to reach key healthcare providers and treatment centers.

**Drive Time Accessibility:**

Bohemia's location offers relatively convenient access to several major hospitals and medical centers, a significant advantage for residents seeking prostate cancer care. The primary roadways serving the area are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495), Sunrise Highway (NY-27), and William Floyd Parkway. The LIE provides a direct route to major medical hubs like Stony Brook University Hospital, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. During peak hours, the LIE can become congested, potentially extending travel times significantly.

Sunrise Highway, running parallel to the LIE, offers an alternative route, although it too can experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. The William Floyd Parkway, a north-south artery, provides access to various medical practices and facilities, including those in the neighboring towns of Shirley and Mastic. However, this route can also be subject to traffic delays, especially during school hours and weekends.

The drive time to the nearest radiation oncology centers, essential for prostate cancer treatment, is a crucial factor. These centers are typically located within a 20-40 minute radius, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. The ability to navigate these roads efficiently is critical for patients undergoing radiation therapy, which often requires daily treatments over several weeks.

**Public Transportation Feasibility:**

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers a valuable public transportation option, but its direct impact on healthcare access in Bohemia is somewhat limited. The nearest LIRR station is in Ronkonkoma, a short drive from Bohemia. From Ronkonkoma, patients can access trains that travel to New York City, where numerous specialized medical centers and hospitals are located.

However, the LIRR is less convenient for accessing local healthcare facilities. Transferring from the train to a bus or ride-sharing service is often necessary, adding time and complexity to the journey. Furthermore, the frequency of train service, particularly during off-peak hours, might pose a challenge for patients with demanding treatment schedules.

Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides local bus service in Bohemia, offering routes that connect to various points within the county. Route 6A and Route 6B are the primary routes serving the area, connecting to neighboring towns and shopping centers. However, these routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, and the frequency of service can be limited, especially on weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transportation. All Suffolk County Transit buses are ADA-compliant, featuring ramps and other accommodations for passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the bus system may vary depending on the location and route.

**Alternative Transportation Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. These services are readily available in Bohemia and can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for patients with limited financial resources or those requiring frequent transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, provide specialized transportation for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients during their journeys. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation.

The availability of family and friends to provide transportation is another crucial factor. Many patients rely on the support of loved ones to get to and from medical appointments. However, this is not always a viable option, especially for patients who live alone or whose family members have other commitments.

**Prostate Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in Bohemia, NY (ZIP Code 11716), a subjective "Prostate Cancer Score" can be assigned. The score will reflect the overall ease and efficiency of accessing prostate cancer-related healthcare services.

Considering the drive times to major medical centers, the availability of public transportation, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, Bohemia receives a moderate score. While the area offers relatively good access to medical facilities via major roadways, the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transportation, and the cost of alternative transportation options can create challenges for patients.

**Moving to Bohemia:**

For individuals considering moving to Bohemia and managing a prostate cancer diagnosis, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Proximity to major roadways, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for support from family and friends are crucial factors to evaluate.

In conclusion, while Bohemia offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, patients should proactively plan their transportation needs. Understanding the nuances of drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services is crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring timely and consistent access to prostate cancer care. The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a reminder that transportation is a vital component of healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing the challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis.