11420, South Ozone Park, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11420, South Ozone Park, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.18 percent of residents in 11420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 1.80 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 11420 South Ozone Park**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is more than just a medical appointment; it's a complex equation shaped by accessibility. For residents of South Ozone Park, ZIP code 11420, this equation involves a critical interplay of transportation options, geographic constraints, and the urgency of timely healthcare access. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which individuals in this community can reach vital medical services, including those specializing in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.

South Ozone Park, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Queens, New York, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The neighborhood's geographical layout, coupled with its reliance on various modes of **transportation**, influences the speed and ease with which residents can reach critical medical facilities. Factors like traffic congestion, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transport options directly impact the Breast Cancer Score, a metric reflecting the community's ability to connect with essential healthcare resources.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of South Ozone Park is the Belt Parkway. Traveling east, this highway provides access to hospitals in Brooklyn and Long Island. Heading west, the Belt Parkway connects to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, opening up further options in Staten Island. The Van Wyck Expressway (I-678), another major thoroughfare, offers a more direct route north, towards hospitals in Jamaica and Queens. The Long Island Expressway (I-495) provides access to medical facilities further east on Long Island. These highways, however, are notorious for heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours, potentially delaying crucial medical appointments.

Local roads, such as Liberty Avenue and Rockaway Boulevard, serve as crucial connectors within the neighborhood and to surrounding areas. These streets, often bustling with local traffic, can experience significant congestion, further complicating the journey to healthcare facilities. Understanding these road networks is essential for anyone considering **moving to South Ozone Park**, as it directly impacts the daily commute and the ease of accessing medical care.

Public transit offers a vital alternative for residents of 11420. The New York City Subway system, specifically the A train, provides a direct route to Manhattan and other parts of Queens. The A train, while generally reliable, can experience delays due to track work or signal issues. The E, J, and Z trains, accessible via connecting bus routes, offer additional options, though transfers can add time and complexity to the journey.

The MetroMetropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) also operates several bus routes that serve South Ozone Park. The Q10, Q41, and Q42 buses provide local service, connecting residents to subway stations and other key destinations. The B15 bus offers express service to Brooklyn. While bus routes provide a valuable service, they are susceptible to traffic delays and may not always be the most efficient option, especially for those requiring urgent medical attention.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit users. While the MTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility, not all subway stations and bus routes are fully compliant. Individuals with mobility limitations may face challenges navigating stairs, elevators, and ramps. This underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative transport options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient, though potentially expensive, alternative to public transit. These services provide door-to-door transport, eliminating the need for transfers and navigating crowded public spaces. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost, potentially creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, often arranged through insurance or healthcare providers, provide specialized transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services offer a critical lifeline for those with limited mobility or medical conditions, their availability and coverage vary depending on insurance plans and individual needs.

Several hospitals and medical centers are within a reasonable distance of 11420, offering a range of services, including those specializing in breast cancer care. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, located a short distance north, provides comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Long Island Jewish Medical Center, in New Hyde Park, is another major medical facility offering specialized cancer care. New York-Presbyterian Queens, in Flushing, offers a wide array of cancer services.

The Breast Cancer Score for 11420 reflects a mixed picture. While the neighborhood benefits from its proximity to major highways and a network of public transit options, challenges remain. Traffic congestion on major roadways, potential delays on public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services can impede timely access to healthcare. The availability of ADA-accessible transportation and medical transport services is also a critical factor.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's resilience, its commitment to healthcare access, and the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of its residents. For those considering **moving to South Ozone Park**, understanding this score, and the factors that shape it, is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.