11763, Medford, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11763, Medford, New York is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.35 percent of residents in 11763 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Community Hospital with a distance of 3.02 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Medford, NY (ZIP Code 11763)**

The journey to effective prostate cancer care in Medford, New York, is a complex one, interwoven with the fabric of transportation and the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, a 'Prostate Cancer Score' for residents of ZIP code 11763, considers the crucial elements of getting to and from medical appointments, a vital aspect of treatment and overall well-being. It's a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Medford, particularly those managing or at risk of this prevalent disease.

Medford, nestled within Suffolk County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, with the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) serving as a major artery. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can dramatically inflate drive times, impacting appointment adherence and adding stress to an already challenging health situation. The Sunrise Highway (NY-27) offers an alternative route, though it too experiences heavy traffic. Local roads like Horseblock Road and Patchogue-Holbrook Road provide further options, but their winding nature and stop-and-go traffic can extend travel times.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit becomes a lifeline. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) system operates within the region, offering bus routes that connect Medford to surrounding towns and healthcare facilities. Route 40, for instance, serves as a critical link, potentially connecting residents to hospitals and specialist offices. Route 51 provides service along Sunrise Highway. Route 58 is another important route, connecting to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station in Ronkonkoma, which can then offer access to healthcare in New York City, though it is a lengthy commute.

The accessibility of these bus routes is a key factor in the 'Prostate Cancer Score.' The availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, is crucial. Frequent service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, is equally important. Delays and infrequent service can create significant obstacles for those undergoing treatment, potentially leading to missed appointments and compromised care. The efficiency and reliability of public transportation are paramount in ensuring healthcare access for all Medford residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility and convenience than public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The availability of ride-sharing services in Medford, particularly during off-peak hours and in areas with limited cell service, is also a factor to consider.

Medical transportation services specifically cater to individuals with healthcare needs. Companies like CareRide and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical transportation, often coordinating rides to and from medical appointments. These services may be covered by insurance, offering a cost-effective alternative to ride-sharing or personal vehicles. The availability of these services in Medford, and the ease with which residents can access them, is a critical component of the 'Prostate Cancer Score.'

The distance to healthcare facilities is another crucial element. The closest hospitals with comprehensive cancer care, including those specializing in prostate cancer treatment, are in the surrounding towns. Stony Brook University Hospital, located approximately 20-30 minutes away by car, depending on traffic, is a major regional healthcare provider. Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip is another option, though the drive time can be longer, especially during peak hours. The drive-times are important for those considering moving to Medford.

The availability of specialist offices, such as urologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance is also essential. Access to these specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Delays in accessing specialist care can negatively impact outcomes and increase patient anxiety. The proximity of these specialists to Medford, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments, are vital factors in the 'Prostate Cancer Score.'

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Medford, NY (ZIP code 11763) is not merely a measure of distance; it's a reflection of the complex interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and the overall well-being of its residents. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transportation services all contribute to the overall score. The drive-times to healthcare facilities, and the availability of specialist care, are equally important.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' underscores the importance of considering transportation and healthcare access when making decisions about where to live, particularly for those managing or at risk of prostate cancer. For those contemplating moving to Medford, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape, to access timely and appropriate medical care, is fundamental to the quality of life for all residents, and especially those facing the challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' is a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on improvements in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of healthcare services, and the evolving needs of the community. Continued investment in public transit, the promotion of ride-sharing programs, and the expansion of medical transportation services are critical to improving the score and ensuring that all Medford residents have access to the care they need.