11413, Springfield Gardens, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11413, Springfield Gardens, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.62 percent of residents in 11413 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 4.00 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Springfield Gardens (ZIP Code 11413)

Springfield Gardens, nestled in the southeastern reaches of Queens, New York, presents a unique challenge for residents managing asthma: the delicate balance between accessible healthcare and the often-complex realities of **transportation**. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the available options for reaching medical care within and around the 11413 ZIP code, specifically focusing on the practicalities of getting there when breathing is already a struggle. Considering the importance of timely access to medical attention, this analysis prioritizes ease of travel, recognizing that every minute saved can translate to improved health outcomes.

For those considering **moving to Springfield Gardens**, this assessment offers a critical perspective on the realities of healthcare access. Understanding the available **transportation** options and their limitations is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live, especially for individuals or families managing asthma. This information, therefore, serves as a valuable resource for prospective residents, empowering them to prioritize their health needs within the context of their chosen community.

The primary roadways serving Springfield Gardens are the Belt Parkway, the Southern State Parkway, and the Cross Island Parkway. The Belt Parkway provides access to the west, connecting to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and Brooklyn. The Southern State Parkway, running east-west, offers a direct route to Long Island. The Cross Island Parkway, a north-south artery, links to the Whitestone Bridge and the Bronx. While these highways offer relatively quick travel times, especially during off-peak hours, they are often congested during rush hour, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to increased traffic-related air pollution.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the time of day and the specific destination. For example, reaching Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, via the Belt Parkway and the Van Wyck Expressway, could take approximately 15-20 minutes during non-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily double, adding significant stress and potential exposure to pollutants. Similarly, traveling to Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, using the Cross Island Parkway and the Long Island Expressway, could take 30-45 minutes or longer, depending on traffic conditions.

Public **transportation** options offer an alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The New York City Transit Authority (NYCT) provides bus service within Springfield Gardens and to surrounding areas. The Q3, Q4, Q5, Q77, and Q85 bus routes serve the neighborhood, offering connections to subway lines and other bus routes. The Q3, for instance, travels along Springfield Boulevard, providing a direct link to the Jamaica Center-Parsons/Archer subway station (E, J, Z lines), which offers access to a wider network of healthcare facilities.

However, relying on public transit presents its own set of challenges for asthma sufferers. Bus travel can be slow, especially during peak hours, and the potential for exposure to allergens and irritants within the bus environment is a concern. Furthermore, the accessibility of bus stops and the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating, are crucial considerations. While the NYCT strives to maintain ADA compliance, the reality of aging infrastructure and potential delays can create difficulties for individuals with mobility limitations or respiratory conditions.

The subway, while faster than buses, also presents challenges. The closest subway stations to Springfield Gardens are located in Jamaica, requiring a bus transfer. The E, J, and Z lines offer connections to various hospitals and medical centers, but the transfer process can be strenuous, especially for those with breathing difficulties. The availability of elevators and escalators at subway stations is critical, and the potential for crowded conditions and exposure to allergens within the subway environment must be considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option. These services provide door-to-door service, potentially saving time and reducing stress compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. Additionally, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those provided by companies like MedTrans and CareRide, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, providing a more comfortable and supportive experience for individuals with asthma. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities within and around Springfield Gardens is another crucial factor. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, as previously mentioned, is a major healthcare provider located relatively close to the neighborhood. Other options include Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Queens, and various urgent care centers and private practices. The availability of specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists and allergists, is a critical consideration. Researching the specific services offered by each facility and assessing their proximity to Springfield Gardens is essential.

The "Asthma Score" for Springfield Gardens, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the availability of various **transportation** options provides a degree of choice, each option presents its own set of challenges for asthma sufferers. The reliance on highways, the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-booking medical **transportation** services all contribute to the complexity of accessing healthcare.

For individuals with asthma, the ideal scenario would involve easy access to reliable and affordable **transportation**, minimizing exposure to pollutants and allergens, and ensuring timely arrival at medical appointments. Considering the realities of **healthcare access** in Springfield Gardens, residents must carefully weigh the pros and cons of each **transportation** option, considering their individual needs and circumstances.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making for those managing asthma in Springfield Gardens. By understanding the available resources, identifying potential challenges, and developing a personalized **transportation** strategy, residents can navigate the complexities of **healthcare access** and prioritize their respiratory health. The journey to healthcare in Springfield Gardens requires careful consideration, but with thoughtful planning, it is a journey that can be managed effectively.