11950, Mastic, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11950, Mastic, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.81 percent of residents in 11950 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peconic Bay Medical Center with a distance of 12.40 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mastic (ZIP Code 11950)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like prostate cancer, is a complex one. It’s not just about the medical expertise available, but also the accessibility of that expertise. For residents of Mastic, New York (ZIP Code 11950), understanding the landscape of **transportation** options is crucial to navigating the healthcare system and ensuring timely access to potentially life-saving treatments. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering the practicalities of reaching key medical facilities from this Suffolk County location.

The primary consideration is the distance and accessibility to urology specialists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers. Prostate cancer treatment often involves multiple appointments, including diagnostic tests, consultations, surgery, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. This necessitates a reliable and efficient **transportation** system. Mastic's location on the south shore of Long Island presents both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a prevalent mode of **transportation** in Mastic. The primary thoroughfare is William Floyd Parkway, which provides north-south access. To the west, Sunrise Highway (Route 27) offers a direct route to major hospitals and medical centers. The Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) is accessible via several exits, but traffic congestion is a significant factor, especially during peak hours.

Reaching Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, involves a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes via William Floyd Parkway and the LIE, depending on traffic. Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip, a closer option, is roughly a 30-minute drive via Sunrise Highway and the Southern State Parkway. The drive to Southside Hospital in Bay Shore is about 35 minutes via Sunrise Highway. These estimates are based on typical driving conditions and can be significantly extended during rush hour or due to accidents.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Public **transportation** options in Mastic are limited. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) provides commuter rail service, but the Mastic-Shirley station is not ideally located for all residents. Accessing the station may require a drive or a local bus connection. The LIRR offers service to New York City and other Long Island destinations, but it may not be the most convenient option for reaching local medical facilities.

Suffolk County Transit operates bus routes in the area. Route 6A and Route 6B provide service along William Floyd Parkway and connect to other routes. However, bus schedules can be infrequent, and travel times can be lengthy. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. All Suffolk County Transit buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, but the overall convenience of bus **transportation** for frequent medical appointments remains a challenge.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Mastic, offering an alternative to driving or public **transportation**. However, availability can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Costs can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services specifically cater to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical **transportation** providers serve the Mastic area, including companies like Med-Ride and Ambulnz. These services can be a valuable resource for patients who are unable to drive or use public **transportation**. However, they can be expensive, and it's crucial to check insurance coverage and pre-book appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Score Assessment:**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Mastic (ZIP Code 11950) reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers access to reputable medical facilities, the **transportation** challenges significantly impact healthcare access.

**Factors contributing to a lower score:** The reliance on driving, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for traffic delays on major roadways. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services and the expense of medical **transportation** further contribute to the challenges.

**Factors mitigating the challenges:** The proximity to several hospitals and medical centers, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the existence of medical **transportation** providers.

**Overall Score:** Considering all factors, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Mastic is moderately accessible. Residents have options for reaching healthcare providers, but careful planning and consideration of **transportation** logistics are essential.

**Moving to Mastic:**

For individuals considering **moving to Mastic**, particularly those with existing health concerns, this assessment highlights the importance of evaluating **transportation** options and proximity to medical facilities. While Mastic offers a suburban lifestyle, the **transportation** challenges should be factored into the decision-making process. Prospective residents should research the availability of medical specialists, consider the accessibility of **transportation** options, and factor in the costs associated with healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare system in Mastic, especially when facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, requires a proactive approach. Understanding the **transportation** landscape, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation** providers, is crucial for ensuring timely access to care. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available resources, plan their appointments strategically, and consider the potential impact of **transportation** challenges on their overall well-being. Prioritizing healthcare access is a crucial element of living in Mastic.