11412, Saint Albans, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11412, Saint Albans, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.76 percent of residents in 11412 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Queens Hospital Center with a distance of 2.73 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 11412, Saint Albans

The quest for optimal healthcare access, particularly for a disease as formidable as breast cancer, demands a nuanced understanding of the local landscape. This write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP code 11412, the heart of Saint Albans, Queens, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score considers the availability of various transportation options, the proximity to comprehensive breast cancer care, and the overall ease of navigating the healthcare system, providing valuable insights for residents and those considering a move to this vibrant community.

The Breast Cancer Score for 11412 is not a single number but a composite evaluation, reflecting the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It considers factors like drive times, public transit reliability, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of specialized medical transportation services. A higher score indicates greater ease of access to timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. This analysis is crucial, as early detection and treatment are paramount in the fight against this disease.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, navigating the roadways of Saint Albans is a key consideration. The primary arteries influencing healthcare access are the Belt Parkway, the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678), and the Long Island Expressway (I-495). These highways provide swift connections to major medical centers, though traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Driving to major hospitals like Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, a comprehensive cancer center, typically takes 20-30 minutes via the Grand Central Parkway and the Cross Island Parkway, depending on traffic. The drive to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, a world-renowned facility, can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, particularly during rush hour, navigating the Van Wyck Expressway and the Midtown Tunnel. The availability of parking at these facilities is another crucial factor to consider, often requiring advance planning and incurring additional costs.

Smaller, local hospitals like Jamaica Hospital Medical Center are closer, usually a 10-15 minute drive via Linden Boulevard or the Van Wyck Expressway. However, the scope of specialized cancer services may be more limited compared to the larger, specialized centers. Therefore, the choice of hospital often depends on the specific needs of the patient and the type of treatment required.

**Public Transit: The Rails and Buses**

Public transportation offers a viable alternative for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid traffic. The New York City Transit Authority (NYCT) provides a network of bus routes and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) that serve the 11412 area. The Q4, Q5, Q83, and Q85 bus routes offer frequent service throughout Saint Albans, connecting residents to various points within Queens and to subway lines.

The LIRR's Long Island Rail Road provides service from the St. Albans station, offering a direct route to Penn Station in Manhattan. This is a faster option for reaching major hospitals in Manhattan compared to driving, particularly during rush hour. The LIRR is generally reliable, but service disruptions can occur due to track work or other unforeseen circumstances.

The accessibility of public transit is a critical factor, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that all buses and most LIRR stations are accessible. However, the availability of elevators and ramps at specific stations should be verified in advance. The NYCT website and the MTA Trip Planner provide detailed information on accessibility features and service alerts.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 11412, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. These services provide a convenient option, particularly for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase the expense.

Medical transportation services, such as Access-A-Ride, are specifically designed to transport individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations. These services provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring accessibility for those who cannot use public transit. Eligibility requirements and advance booking are typically necessary for Access-A-Ride. Several private medical transportation companies, like MedTrans and Logisticare, also operate in the area, offering specialized services for patients requiring non-emergency medical transport.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 11412 reflects a generally favorable healthcare access landscape. The proximity to major hospitals, the availability of diverse transportation options, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a reasonable score. However, the score is not without its caveats.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times. Public transit, while offering a viable alternative, may require navigating multiple modes of transportation. The cost of ride-sharing services can be a burden for some, and the availability of medical transportation services may require advance planning and eligibility verification.

The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care within the immediate vicinity is also a key factor. While local hospitals offer some services, patients may need to travel to specialized cancer centers for advanced treatments. The choice of hospital and treatment options should be based on the individual's needs and the recommendations of their healthcare providers.

**Moving to Saint Albans: A Healthcare Perspective**

For those considering a move to Saint Albans, the healthcare access landscape should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. The availability of diverse transportation options, the proximity to major medical centers, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services contribute to a favorable environment for healthcare access.

However, potential residents should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with the bus routes and LIRR schedules. Individuals with mobility limitations should verify the accessibility of public transit options and explore medical transportation services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 11412 is a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ongoing evolution of the healthcare system and transportation infrastructure. Staying informed about the latest developments, such as new bus routes, hospital expansions, and technological advancements in transportation, is crucial for maximizing healthcare access and ensuring the best possible outcomes. The fight against breast cancer requires a multifaceted approach, and access to timely and comprehensive care is a fundamental component of that fight.