11364, Oakland Gardens, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 11364, Oakland Gardens, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.39 percent of residents in 11364 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Creedmoor Psychiatric Center with a distance of 1.56 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oakland Gardens (ZIP Code 11364)

The crisp air of Oakland Gardens, nestled in the heart of Queens, New York, often carries the promise of tranquility. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the seemingly simple act of accessing healthcare can become a significant challenge. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, analyzes the transportation landscape within ZIP code 11364, offering insights into the ease or difficulty of reaching vital medical appointments. This is crucial for anyone considering moving to Oakland Gardens, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. COPD patients often experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and reduced mobility. These limitations can significantly impact their ability to travel, making reliable and efficient transportation a necessity, not a luxury. Our analysis considers various modes, from private vehicles to public transit, evaluating their accessibility, convenience, and potential challenges.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of transportation in Oakland Gardens are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) and the Grand Central Parkway. The LIE, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides relatively quick access to hospitals and specialized clinics located in neighboring areas like New Hyde Park and Manhasset. However, the LIE is infamous for its traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour. This can be a significant obstacle for COPD patients, potentially exacerbating their symptoms and causing undue stress. The Grand Central Parkway, running north-south, offers an alternative route, but it too can experience heavy traffic, especially near LaGuardia Airport.

Navigating local roads like Union Turnpike, 188th Street, and 220th Street is also crucial. These streets provide access to local medical offices and pharmacies. While generally less congested than the highways, they can still present challenges. Parking availability, especially near medical facilities, can be limited, adding to the difficulty for those with mobility issues. Road conditions, including potholes and uneven sidewalks, can also pose risks.

Public transportation in Oakland Gardens offers a viable alternative, though it presents its own set of considerations. The primary bus routes serving the area are the Q46, Q27, Q88, and Q17. The Q46, for example, runs along Union Turnpike, connecting to the subway system at the Kew Gardens-Union Turnpike station. The Q27 travels along 188th Street, providing access to the Jamaica area. The Q88 travels along the LIE, connecting to the subway system at the 161st Street-Yankee Stadium station. The Q17 travels along the LIE, connecting to the subway system at the 161st Street-Yankee Stadium station.

The New York City Transit Authority (NYCT) is committed to providing accessible transportation options. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility devices. The MTA also offers Access-A-Ride, a paratransit service for individuals who cannot use the regular bus or subway due to a disability. However, Access-A-Ride requires advance booking and can sometimes experience delays, which can be problematic for patients with urgent medical needs. The subway system, while offering a faster travel time, may not be a practical option for all COPD patients, as navigating stairs and long distances within stations can be physically demanding.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Oakland Gardens. These services offer a convenient door-to-door transportation option, potentially reducing the stress associated with public transit or driving. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Additionally, the availability of ride-sharing vehicles can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like Ambulnz and MedRide, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with boarding and disembarking. However, these services often require prior arrangements and may be more expensive than other transportation options.

Healthcare access in Oakland Gardens is influenced by the proximity of medical facilities. While the immediate area may have primary care physicians and some specialized clinics, access to larger hospitals and specialized care may require travel. NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, located in Flushing, is a major hospital that is accessible by bus or car. Long Island Jewish Medical Center, located in New Hyde Park, is another major hospital, also accessible by bus or car.

The COPD Score for Oakland Gardens is not a simple numerical value but rather a complex assessment based on the interplay of various factors. While the area offers a range of transportation options, each presents its own set of challenges for COPD patients. The reliance on highways like the LIE, with its traffic congestion, can be a significant barrier. Public transit, while accessible, requires careful planning and may not be suitable for all individuals. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer convenience but can be costly.

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Oakland Gardens, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and capabilities is essential. Factors to consider include their level of mobility, their financial resources, and their tolerance for stress. Researching the proximity of medical facilities, the availability of accessible transportation options, and the potential for traffic delays is crucial.

Ultimately, the COPD Score for Oakland Gardens reflects a nuanced reality. While the area offers access to healthcare, the transportation landscape presents challenges that require careful consideration and proactive planning. Individuals with COPD must weigh the benefits of living in this vibrant community against the potential difficulties of navigating its transportation network to ensure they can maintain their health and well-being. The decision to move to Oakland Gardens, or any location, should always prioritize the individual's ability to access the healthcare they need.