11354, Flushing, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11354, Flushing, New York is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.73 percent of residents in 11354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flushing Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 0.37 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Flushing, NY (ZIP Code 11354)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's a journey that extends far beyond the walls of a doctor's office, encompassing the critical element of transportation. In the vibrant, diverse community of Flushing, New York (ZIP code 11354), access to timely and efficient healthcare is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all crucial factors for individuals facing this challenging disease.

Flushing, a bustling hub of activity, presents a unique transportation tapestry. The area's proximity to major roadways and its robust public transit system offer a variety of options. However, these options are not without their challenges. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying critical appointments. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, must account for these complexities, offering a realistic appraisal of healthcare accessibility.

**The Road Ahead: Navigating by Car**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, the primary arteries of Flushing offer direct routes to various healthcare facilities. The Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495, serves as a major east-west thoroughfare, providing access to hospitals and medical centers both within and outside of Flushing. The drive time to major hospitals like NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, located in the neighboring ZIP code 11355, can vary greatly depending on traffic. During rush hour, a trip that might take 15 minutes on a clear day can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour.

The Grand Central Parkway, another critical roadway, provides access to hospitals and medical facilities. The drive to facilities in the surrounding areas, such as Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, can be accomplished via the Grand Central Parkway and the Cross Island Parkway. However, the same traffic considerations apply. The Cross Island Parkway, connecting to the Belt Parkway, offers access to healthcare facilities in Brooklyn and beyond, but this journey requires careful planning to avoid potential delays.

Local roads like Northern Boulevard and Kissena Boulevard provide access to smaller clinics and medical offices within Flushing. However, these roads are often congested, especially during peak hours, adding to the travel time. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the variability of these drive times, recognizing the potential for significant delays.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

New York City's public transit system, managed by the MetroMetropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), offers a network of buses and subway lines serving Flushing. The 7 subway line, often referred to as the "IRT Flushing Line," is a vital artery, connecting Flushing to Manhattan and providing access to numerous hospitals and medical centers along its route. The 7 train runs through the heart of Flushing, with multiple stations offering convenient access to various destinations.

Bus routes, such as the Q20A, Q20B, Q25, Q26, Q27, Q44, and Q65, crisscross the neighborhood, providing access to local medical offices and connecting to the subway lines. These buses are generally accessible, offering ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features such as ramps and priority seating. However, travel times on buses can be unpredictable, often subject to traffic delays.

The Breast Cancer Score must factor in the accessibility and reliability of public transit. While the subway offers a relatively quick and efficient way to reach Manhattan, the bus system, though accessible, may be subject to delays. The 7 train is a solid option, but a transfer from a bus or a walk from the station can add to the overall travel time.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Routes**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Flushing, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment. However, ride-sharing costs can add up, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, making them a valuable option for individuals with specific needs. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The Breast Cancer Score must consider the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. These services offer valuable options, especially for individuals with specific needs, but their cost must be factored into the overall assessment.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Flushing (ZIP code 11354) is not a single number but a holistic assessment of healthcare access. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to major hospitals and medical centers, accounting for peak-hour traffic congestion on the LIE, Grand Central Parkway, Cross Island Parkway, Northern Boulevard, and Kissena Boulevard.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, reliability, and accessibility of the 7 subway line and various bus routes (Q20A, Q20B, Q25, Q26, Q27, Q44, and Q65).
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The availability, cost, and ease of booking ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) and medical transport services.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant features on public transit and in healthcare facilities.

The Breast Cancer Score aims to provide a realistic picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities facing individuals in Flushing navigating breast cancer treatment. It highlights the importance of planning and preparation, recognizing that the journey to healthcare involves more than just the medical appointment itself.

**Moving to Flushing: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Flushing, the Breast Cancer Score is a crucial factor to consider, particularly for individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the accessibility of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are all essential factors to evaluate. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool, providing insights into the transportation landscape and helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

Flushing offers a vibrant community with diverse healthcare options. However, the transportation challenges must be carefully considered. By understanding the complexities of the transportation network, individuals can navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence and ensure timely access to the care they need. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not just an assessment of transportation; it's a guide to navigating a critical aspect of healthcare access in the heart of Flushing.