11967, Shirley, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11967, Shirley, New York is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.33 percent of residents in 11967 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shirley, NY (ZIP Code 11967)

The decision to move, particularly when healthcare needs are a consideration, demands a comprehensive understanding of local resources. For those contemplating a move to Shirley, New York (ZIP Code 11967), and specifically those with prostate cancer or a family history, understanding the ease of access to specialized care is paramount. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to and from key healthcare providers in the region.

The score considers the accessibility of urologists, oncologists, radiation therapy centers, and diagnostic facilities, factoring in drive times, public transportation availability, and alternative transportation methods. This information, coupled with an understanding of healthcare access, is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to Shirley.

**The Score's Methodology**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a qualitative assessment. It considers various factors, assigning a relative weight to each. Drive times are the primary determinant, with shorter distances receiving higher scores. Public transportation availability is also crucial, particularly for those unable to drive. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options further enhance the score. The score will not be a numerical value, but a narrative assessment, providing a nuanced picture of healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

Shirley's location on Long Island presents both advantages and challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary roadway connecting Shirley to the broader region is the William Floyd Parkway. This major thoroughfare provides relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers to the west, although traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Heading west on the William Floyd Parkway, a journey to the nearest major hospital, Long Island Community Hospital in East Patchogue, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including urology and oncology services. Further west, the drive to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major regional medical center with advanced cancer treatment options, can take between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic conditions on the Long Island Expressway (LIE), a critical artery for healthcare access.

Driving east, access to healthcare options is more limited. The drive to Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, a smaller hospital with some cancer care services, takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The roadways are less congested in this direction, but the available specialized care is more limited.

**Public Transportation: A Vital Alternative**

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation is a critical consideration. The Suffolk County Transit (SCT) provides bus service in the Shirley area. The S60 bus route, for example, runs along Montauk Highway, offering a connection to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) at the Mastic-Shirley station. From there, a train to destinations further west, including hospitals in the Patchogue and Stony Brook areas, is possible.

However, the SCT service frequency can be a limiting factor. Buses typically run on a less frequent schedule, especially during evenings and weekends. The accessibility of bus stops and vehicles is also a crucial consideration. The SCT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system must be assessed. The LIRR is a more reliable mode of public transportation, but the distance to the train station and the need for transfers can add significant time to the journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Shirley, offering a convenient alternative to driving or waiting for public transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in response to demand. The cost of these services must be factored into the overall transportation equation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, also exist. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The availability and cost of these specialized services should be investigated.

**Healthcare Access and the "Prostate Cancer Score"**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Shirley, NY (ZIP Code 11967) is a mixed bag. The area's proximity to Long Island Community Hospital offers a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, access to more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials at Stony Brook University Hospital, requires longer travel times, especially during peak hours.

Public transportation provides an alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and reach need to be considered. Ride-sharing services and medical transport options can supplement the available transportation, but the cost and availability of these services should be carefully evaluated.

**The Decision to Move: A Personalized Assessment**

For individuals considering a move to Shirley, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of a personalized assessment. The score is not a definitive judgment but a guide to understanding the complexities of healthcare access.

Those with prostate cancer or a family history of the disease should consider several factors:

* **Stage of the Disease:** Individuals with advanced stages of prostate cancer may require more frequent and specialized care, making proximity to a comprehensive cancer center a priority.
* **Mobility:** Individuals with mobility limitations will need to prioritize accessible transportation options, including public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Financial Considerations:** The cost of transportation, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services, needs to be factored into the overall budget.
* **Personal Preferences:** Some individuals may prefer to have a primary care physician and specialist close to home, while others may be willing to travel further for specialized care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Moving to Shirley requires a nuanced understanding of healthcare access. While the area offers a reasonable level of care, the reliance on roadways and the limitations of public transportation necessitate careful planning. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional flexibility, but the cost and reliability of these services must be carefully considered.

Before making a decision, prospective residents should research the specific healthcare providers they may need, assess the transportation options available, and consider their personal circumstances. By understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Shirley, individuals can make an informed decision that prioritizes their health and well-being. This assessment provides a starting point for that critical journey.