11797, Woodbury, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11797, Woodbury, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.33 percent of residents in 11797 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Plainview Hospital with a distance of 2.73 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 11797

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a condition as serious as prostate cancer, is a complex equation. It involves not just the quality of medical professionals but also the accessibility of those professionals, considering factors like transportation, drive times, and public transit options. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 11797 (Woodbury, New York), providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" that reflects the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services, specifically for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Woodbury, a vibrant community in Suffolk County, presents a unique blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This duality shapes the healthcare access profile for those residing here. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will consider the availability of urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers, alongside the practicalities of reaching these facilities. The goal is to paint a clear picture for residents, especially those considering moving to Woodbury, and to highlight potential challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare system.

The primary arteries of Woodbury's transportation network are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) and the Northern State Parkway. These highways offer swift access to major medical centers, but they can also be notorious for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The LIE, in particular, can become a parking lot, significantly extending drive times and adding stress to an already difficult situation. The Northern State Parkway provides an alternative route, often less congested, but it may require a longer overall distance depending on the destination.

Let's consider specific drive times. The drive to Northwell Health's Huntington Hospital, a major healthcare provider with a robust urology department, is typically around 20-30 minutes via the Northern State Parkway or the LIE, depending on traffic. Heading east on the LIE towards Stony Brook University Hospital, another prominent medical institution, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour during rush hour. These drive times can be critical for patients requiring frequent appointments, such as those undergoing radiation therapy.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though it presents its own set of considerations. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides service from the Syosset station, a short drive from Woodbury, to various destinations, including Manhattan, where numerous specialized medical facilities are located. The LIRR is generally reliable, but it requires a connection from the train station to the medical facility, adding time and complexity to the journey.

The LIRR is not the only option. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides bus routes that serve the area, although their frequency and coverage may be limited compared to other forms of transportation. The 51 bus route, for example, travels through Woodbury, connecting to various towns and villages. However, the bus routes are not always direct routes to medical facilities. ADA accessibility is available on all Suffolk County Transit buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Woodbury, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for parking and navigating complex routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments. Medical transport services, such as those offered by various private companies, are also available, providing specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations. These services often include assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and can be tailored to the specific needs of the patient.

The availability of these services contributes to the overall "Prostate Cancer Score." A high score reflects easy access to medical facilities, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. The score is not just about drive times; it also considers the availability of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transport options.

For a resident of Woodbury, the "Prostate Cancer Score" is influenced by several factors. First, the proximity to major medical centers is a significant advantage. The presence of reputable hospitals with specialized urology and oncology departments within a reasonable driving distance is a major plus. Second, the availability of multiple transportation options enhances the score. The combination of car ownership, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport provides flexibility and caters to diverse needs.

However, the score is also affected by potential drawbacks. Traffic congestion on the LIE and Northern State Parkway can significantly increase drive times, especially during peak hours. The limited frequency and coverage of public transit routes may pose a challenge for some residents. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a burden for those with limited financial resources.

Considering these factors, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Woodbury (11797) is moderately high. The area benefits from its proximity to major medical centers and the availability of multiple transportation options. However, the potential for traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit slightly reduce the overall score. For individuals considering moving to Woodbury, the score suggests that while healthcare access is generally good, careful planning and consideration of transportation options are essential.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can change over time. As healthcare facilities expand, transportation infrastructure improves, and new services emerge, the score will evolve. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The score serves as a guide, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare access profile in Woodbury, New York, and providing valuable information for those navigating the journey to healthcare.