11417, Ozone Park, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11417, Ozone Park, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.86 percent of residents in 11417 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 2.21 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 11417

Considering a move to Ozone Park, ZIP Code 11417? Beyond the charm of its tree-lined streets and vibrant community, it’s crucial to understand the practicalities of daily life, especially regarding healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, focusing on breast cancer care, providing a “Breast Cancer Score” to help potential residents assess the ease and efficiency of accessing vital medical services. This score isn’t a formal metric, but a subjective assessment based on factors like drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all crucial elements of transportation.

The cornerstone of this analysis is the understanding that timely access to healthcare, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, this evaluation will center on the proximity and accessibility of facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care, including mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and supportive services.

Ozone Park, nestled in the heart of Queens, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the area is served by various modes of transportation, navigating to specialized healthcare facilities can be complex. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the **Van Wyck Expressway (I-678)**, the **Jackie Robinson Parkway**, and **Atlantic Avenue**. These roads are often congested, especially during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to a commute.

Driving to the nearest major hospitals offering breast cancer care is a key factor. **Jamaica Hospital Medical Center**, located just outside 11417, is a primary option. During off-peak hours, the drive via the Van Wyck Expressway might take 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this can easily double, even triple, due to heavy traffic. **Long Island Jewish Medical Center**, in New Hyde Park, offers comprehensive cancer care. The drive, primarily via the Grand Central Parkway and the Cross Island Parkway, could take 30-45 minutes, and even longer with traffic.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though it presents its own set of considerations. The **New York City Transit Authority (NYCT)** provides bus service throughout Ozone Park. The **Q11, Q21, Q41, Q52-SBS, Q53-SBS, Q54, Q56, Q60, Q88, and Q10** routes serve the area, offering connections to subway lines. The **A train** provides a direct route to Manhattan and Brooklyn, where additional healthcare options exist.

Navigating the subway system requires careful planning. While the A train offers a relatively swift journey, transfers to other lines might be necessary to reach specific hospitals. Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical concern. Not all subway stations are fully ADA-compliant, meaning they lack elevators or ramps. This could pose a significant barrier for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. Therefore, the Breast Cancer Score will consider the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating the public transit system.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are readily available in Ozone Park. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those who prefer door-to-door service. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly add up, especially for frequent appointments. The Breast Cancer Score will factor in the estimated cost of ride-sharing to healthcare facilities, considering the financial burden it might place on patients.

Medical transportation services, like **LogistiCare** and **Veyo**, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often covered by insurance and can be a valuable resource for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, availability and wait times can vary, and it’s essential to pre-arrange transportation well in advance of appointments.

The availability of specialized breast cancer centers within a reasonable distance is another critical factor. The presence of a comprehensive breast cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to care, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Such centers typically provide access to a team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff, all working together to provide coordinated care.

The Breast Cancer Score will also consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and counseling services. These resources can be invaluable in helping patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer treatment. Access to these services can significantly improve the patient experience and overall well-being.

The final element of the Breast Cancer Score involves the proximity of pharmacies and other essential services. Access to medications, durable medical equipment, and other necessities is crucial for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

**The Breast Cancer Score for 11417:**

Based on the analysis, the Breast Cancer Score for Ozone Park, 11417, is **Moderate**. While the area offers various transportation options, each presents challenges. Driving can be time-consuming due to traffic congestion. Public transit requires careful planning and may present accessibility issues. Ride-sharing is convenient but can be expensive. The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care is good, with several hospitals and specialized centers within a reasonable distance. However, the commute times, the potential for traffic delays, and the complexities of navigating public transit necessitate careful consideration.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Plan ahead:** Before moving to Ozone Park, research the location of healthcare facilities and estimate commute times using various transportation methods.
* **Explore public transit:** Familiarize yourself with the bus and subway routes serving the area and identify accessible stations.
* **Consider ride-sharing:** Factor in the cost of ride-sharing services when budgeting for healthcare expenses.
* **Investigate medical transportation:** Explore the availability of medical transportation services and determine if they are covered by your insurance.
* **Seek support:** Connect with local support groups and patient navigators to navigate the healthcare system.
* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a primary care physician or specialist, consider their proximity to your home and ease of access.

Moving to Ozone Park presents many advantages, but understanding the transportation landscape is essential for accessing healthcare. The Breast Cancer Score provides a framework for assessing the accessibility of breast cancer care, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Ozone Park, ensuring they can access the healthcare they need with minimal disruption.