11451, Jamaica, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11451, Jamaica, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 11451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 0.93 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 11451

The quest for optimal healthcare, particularly for individuals managing asthma, demands meticulous consideration of accessibility. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP code 11451 (Jamaica, Queens, NY), providing an “Asthma Score” assessment. This score considers the ease of reaching healthcare facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. The goal is to empower residents, especially those contemplating moving to Jamaica, with crucial information regarding healthcare access.

The “Asthma Score” will be a subjective measure, reflecting the relative ease or difficulty of accessing medical care. Factors considered include the availability of transportation, travel time, and the presence of features that accommodate individuals with asthma, such as accessible public transit and readily available ride-sharing services. The score will range from 1 (very difficult access) to 5 (very easy access).

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Navigating the streets of Jamaica by car presents a mixed bag. The major arteries, namely the **Van Wyck Expressway (I-678)** and the **Long Island Expressway (I-495)**, offer rapid transit options, but they are notorious for heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Reaching **Jamaica Hospital Medical Center**, a primary healthcare provider, from various points within 11451 requires careful planning. A drive from the northern reaches of the zip code, near the LIE, could take as little as 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours. However, this same journey during rush hour might balloon to 30-45 minutes, significantly impacting someone experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Travel from the southern areas, closer to **South Jamaica**, might see shorter drive times, perhaps 5-10 minutes during non-peak periods. However, the congestion on local roads like **Guy R. Brewer Boulevard** and **Sutphin Boulevard** can quickly negate these time savings.

Furthermore, the availability of parking at healthcare facilities is a critical consideration. Jamaica Hospital, while offering parking, often faces capacity constraints, potentially adding to the stress of a healthcare visit.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The New York City subway system provides a robust network throughout Jamaica, offering a vital alternative to driving. The **E, J, and Z** subway lines serve the area, providing convenient access to healthcare facilities. The **E train** stops at Jamaica Center-Parsons/Archer, a major transportation hub, and provides direct access to Jamaica Hospital.

The **J and Z trains** also offer access to the hospital, albeit with slightly longer travel times, depending on the origin point. The presence of elevators and accessible platforms on the **E train** at Jamaica Center is a significant advantage for individuals with mobility limitations, including those with severe asthma who may struggle with stairs.

Bus routes, operated by the **MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority)**, further enhance public transit options. Numerous bus lines, including the **Q4, Q5, Q6, Q7, Q8, Q9, Q10, Q11, Q17, Q20A, Q20B, Q24, Q25, Q30, Q31, Q36, Q40, Q41, Q43, Q44, Q54, Q56, Q60, Q65, Q83, Q84, Q85, Q110, and Q111**, crisscross the 11451 area, connecting residents to healthcare facilities and other essential services. Many of these buses are equipped with ramps and other ADA-compliant features, enhancing accessibility for individuals with asthma.

However, the reliability of public transit can be a concern. Delays and overcrowding, particularly during peak hours, can exacerbate the stress of a healthcare journey, potentially triggering asthma symptoms. The frequency of service and the availability of real-time information are critical factors in assessing the suitability of public transit for individuals with asthma.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a convenient alternative to driving and public transit. These services are readily available in 11451, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, and the availability of drivers may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services, like **LogistiCare** and **Access-A-Ride**, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with severe asthma or mobility limitations, they often require prior scheduling and may have eligibility requirements.

**The “Asthma Score” for 11451:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Asthma Score" for 11451 is a **3.5 out of 5**.

The score reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation landscape. The abundance of public transit options, including the accessible **E train**, and the availability of ride-sharing services, contribute to a relatively favorable score. However, the potential for traffic congestion on major roadways, the unreliability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services, slightly detract from the overall score.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities, such as Jamaica Hospital, is a significant advantage for residents of 11451. However, the ease of access is contingent on the chosen mode of transportation and the time of day. Individuals with asthma should carefully consider their transportation needs and preferences when planning healthcare visits.

For those considering moving to Jamaica, the availability of diverse transportation options offers flexibility. However, prospective residents should factor in the potential for traffic delays, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the reliability of public transit when assessing the suitability of the area for their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the transportation landscape in 11451 requires a strategic approach. While the area offers a range of options, from public transit to ride-sharing services, individuals with asthma must carefully weigh the pros and cons of each mode of transportation. By understanding the nuances of drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing availability, residents can optimize their healthcare access and minimize the potential for asthma triggers. The "Asthma Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the accessibility of healthcare in 11451, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.