11356, College Point, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 11356, College Point, New York is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.45 percent of residents in 11356 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flushing Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 2.02 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in College Point (ZIP Code 11356)

College Point, nestled in the northeastern corner of Queens, New York, presents a unique tapestry of urban living and suburban tranquility. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This write-up, a COPD Score assessment, delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 11356, offering a comprehensive overview for those considering **moving to College Point** or already residing within its borders.

The cornerstone of any COPD Score is the accessibility of medical facilities. Within College Point itself, the primary healthcare provider is the NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Group Queens, located a short drive away. However, specialized pulmonary care often necessitates venturing further afield. The proximity of major hospitals like Mount Sinai Queens in Astoria and Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, while offering comprehensive pulmonary services, adds complexity to the **transportation** equation.

Driving, the seemingly straightforward option, reveals its nuances in College Point. The primary thoroughfare, the Whitestone Expressway (I-678), offers rapid access to the Bronx and points north, but traffic congestion during peak hours can significantly impact drive times. Heading south, the expressway connects to the Long Island Expressway (I-495), a vital artery to Nassau County and beyond, yet notorious for its unpredictable delays. Local roads, such as College Point Boulevard and 14th Avenue, provide alternative routes, albeit often slower and more congested. Expect a drive to Mount Sinai Queens to take approximately 15-25 minutes, while Long Island Jewish Medical Center may require a 20-35 minute journey, depending on traffic conditions.

Public **transportation** offers another avenue for **healthcare access**. The New York City Transit Authority (NYCT) provides bus service within College Point, with routes like the Q20A, Q20B, and Q32 offering connections to the subway system. The Q20A and Q20B traverse College Point Boulevard, providing convenient access to local shops and services, but their routes are not direct to major hospitals. The Q32 offers a more direct route to the 7 train at 74th Street-Roosevelt Avenue station, offering a connection to Manhattan and other parts of Queens.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. All NYCT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users, and designated seating is available. However, the subway system presents greater challenges. While many stations have elevators, not all are fully accessible. The 7 train, a key link for accessing hospitals, has accessible stations, but transfers to other lines may require navigating stairs. Planning a public transit trip requires careful consideration of station accessibility and potential transfer difficulties.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, particularly for those unable to drive or navigate public transit independently. These services provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to walk long distances or navigate complex bus routes. However, the cost can be a significant factor, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can inflate fares. Availability can also vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited ride-share driver density.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide another layer of support. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. These services often include trained attendants to assist with boarding and disembarking. While offering peace of mind, these services typically come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or public **transportation**.

The COPD Score, therefore, is not a simple metric. It is a multifaceted assessment that considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share availability, and the presence of specialized medical **transportation** options. For individuals with COPD, the ideal scenario involves a combination of factors: proximity to healthcare providers, reliable and accessible public **transportation**, and readily available ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

College Point, while offering a relatively convenient location for some healthcare providers, presents challenges. The reliance on the Whitestone Expressway and Long Island Expressway for accessing specialized care introduces the specter of traffic delays. While public **transportation** provides an alternative, the need for transfers and potential accessibility limitations must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer solutions, but at a potentially higher cost.

For someone **moving to College Point** with COPD, a thorough evaluation of individual needs and preferences is essential. Consider the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of the condition, and the ability to navigate various **transportation** options. Prioritize proximity to healthcare providers, explore public transit routes, and investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for College Point (ZIP Code 11356) is a mixed bag. While the area offers access to healthcare, the reliance on roadways and the complexities of public transit require careful consideration. A proactive approach, involving detailed planning and a realistic assessment of **transportation** needs, is crucial for ensuring seamless **healthcare access** and a comfortable quality of life for individuals living with COPD in this vibrant Queens neighborhood. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is paramount for those considering **moving to College Point** or already residing there.