11423, Hollis, New York COPD Score People Score

The People Score for the COPD Score in 11423, Hollis, New York is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.28 percent of the residents in 11423 has some form of health insurance. 42.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.40 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 11423 would have to travel an average of 1.88 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Queens Hospital Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 34,150 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 11423, Hollis, New York.

## The Hollis Hustle: Scoring Community Health in 11423

The air in Hollis, New York, hums with a particular energy. It’s a blend of the rhythmic pulse of the Q4 bus roaring down Jamaica Avenue, the cheerful chatter spilling from the barbershops and beauty salons, and the quiet determination etched on the faces of residents navigating their daily lives. This vibrant Queens neighborhood, nestled within the 11423 ZIP code, is a microcosm of urban life, a place where community health isn’t just a statistic, it’s a lived experience. So, let's dive in and take a closer look, scoring the community health landscape of Hollis, one block at a time.

**Demographics: The Tapestry of Hollis**

The beauty of Hollis lies in its diversity. It’s a tapestry woven with threads of different cultures, ethnicities, and generations. Picture this: a Sunday afternoon on 193rd Street. The aroma of jerk chicken wafts from a backyard cookout, mingling with the scent of freshly baked bread from a nearby bakery. Children, a rainbow coalition of laughter and energy, chase each other down the sidewalk, their games echoing off the stately, well-maintained homes.

Hollis is predominantly African American, with a significant and growing Caribbean population. This vibrant mix translates into a rich cultural heritage, reflected in the music, food, and traditions that permeate the neighborhood. This demographic blend, however, also presents unique community health challenges. Access to culturally competent healthcare, tailored health education programs, and culturally relevant food options are crucial for ensuring equitable health outcomes.

The median age in Hollis skews slightly older than the city average, indicating a strong presence of long-term residents. This is a testament to the neighborhood's stability and the strong sense of community that binds its residents. However, an aging population necessitates a focus on senior care, chronic disease management, and access to age-friendly resources.

**Places to Live: From Grand Homes to Cozy Apartments**

The architecture of Hollis is a visual feast. Grand, single-family homes with manicured lawns line tree-lined streets, showcasing the pride of homeownership. These houses, often passed down through generations, are the bedrock of the community, representing stability and a deep-rooted connection to the neighborhood.

Then there are the more modest, yet equally charming, apartment buildings and multi-family homes that house a diverse range of residents. These structures contribute to the neighborhood's affordability and accessibility, making Hollis a desirable place to live for families and individuals at various stages of life.

The quality of housing in Hollis is generally good, with well-maintained properties and a strong sense of neighborhood pride. However, like any urban environment, there are pockets where housing quality can be a concern. Addressing issues like lead paint, mold, and substandard living conditions is crucial for protecting the health and well-being of residents, especially children.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Sounds and Sights**

Hollis has a distinct personality. It's a place where neighbors know each other, where the local deli owner remembers your usual order, and where the park is always buzzing with activity. The neighborhood vibe is a crucial component of community health, fostering social connections, reducing isolation, and promoting a sense of belonging.

Imagine strolling down Jamaica Avenue on a Saturday afternoon. The street is alive with activity: shoppers browsing the local boutiques, friends catching up over coffee at a sidewalk cafe, and families enjoying a leisurely meal at one of the many Caribbean restaurants. The air is filled with the sounds of music, laughter, and the constant hum of urban life.

This vibrant atmosphere is a double-edged sword. While it fosters a sense of community, it can also contribute to stress and exposure to environmental hazards. The constant noise, traffic congestion, and air pollution can negatively impact mental and physical health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room in the Concrete Jungle**

Despite its urban setting, Hollis offers pockets of green space where residents can connect with nature and engage in outdoor recreation. The most prominent is the sprawling Cunningham Park, a short drive or bus ride away. It’s a vital resource for the community, providing opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and social interaction.

Picture this: a sunny afternoon at Cunningham Park. Families are picnicking under the shade of towering trees, children are playing on the swings, and joggers are pounding the pavement along the park's winding paths. The park offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a space for residents to de-stress, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors.

Beyond Cunningham Park, smaller parks and green spaces are scattered throughout Hollis, offering additional opportunities for outdoor recreation. These spaces are crucial for promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Hollis**

Community health is not just about access to healthcare; it's about empowering residents to take control of their own well-being. Hollis is fortunate to have a number of local wellness programs that are working to address the specific health needs of the community.

The local YMCA, for instance, offers a variety of programs, including fitness classes, health education workshops, and youth sports leagues. These programs provide accessible and affordable opportunities for residents to improve their physical health and connect with others.

Local churches and community organizations also play a vital role in promoting health and wellness. They often host health fairs, provide health screenings, and offer support groups for individuals dealing with chronic diseases.

The presence of these local wellness programs is a positive sign, indicating a commitment to community health. However, there is always room for improvement. Expanding the reach of these programs, tailoring them to the specific needs of the community, and ensuring their long-term sustainability are crucial for maximizing their impact.

**The COPD Score: Assessing the Health Landscape**

Now, let's attempt to assign a "COPD Score" to the community health of Hollis, 11423. This is not a scientific metric, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above.

* **Demographics & Socioeconomic Factors:** The diverse demographic makeup of Hollis presents both strengths and challenges. The strong sense of community is a major asset, but addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to resources is crucial. **Score: 7/10**
* **Housing & Environment:** The quality of housing is generally good, but there are pockets of concern. The urban environment presents challenges related to air quality, noise pollution, and access to green space. **Score: 6/10**
* **Neighborhood Vibe & Social Cohesion:** The strong sense of community is a major strength, fostering social connections and reducing isolation. However, the fast-paced urban environment can also contribute to stress. **Score: 8/10**
* **Outdoor Recreation & Physical Activity:** Access to Cunningham Park and other green spaces provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, more could be done to improve access to safe and accessible walking and biking paths. **Score: 7/10**
* **Local Wellness Programs & Healthcare Access:** The presence of local wellness programs is a positive sign. However, expanding their reach and ensuring access to quality healthcare services for all residents is essential. **Score: 7/10**

**Overall COPD Score for Hollis, 11423: 7/10**

This score reflects the strengths of Hollis: its vibrant community, strong social connections, and commitment to local wellness programs. It also acknowledges the challenges: the need to address health disparities, improve access to green space, and mitigate the negative impacts of the urban environment.

**The Path Forward: Building a Healthier Future**

The future of community health in Hollis depends on a collaborative effort. It requires the active participation of residents, community organizations, healthcare providers, and local government.

Here are some key areas of focus:

* **Promoting Health Equity:** Addressing health disparities by ensuring equitable access to healthcare, culturally competent services, and tailored health education programs.
* **Enhancing Environmental Health:** Improving air quality, reducing noise pollution, and expanding access to green spaces.
* **Supporting Healthy Lifestyles:** Promoting physical activity, healthy eating, and mental well-being through accessible and affordable programs.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between community organizations, healthcare providers, and local government to address the specific health needs of the community.
* **Investing in Senior Care:** Providing resources and support for the aging population, including access to age-friendly housing, transportation, and healthcare services.

The energy of Hollis is undeniable. By focusing on these key areas, the community can build on its strengths, overcome its challenges, and create a healthier future for all its residents. The Hollis hustle, with its inherent resilience and spirit, is well-positioned to continue its journey toward a thriving and healthy community. The work is ongoing, the potential is vast, and the future of Hollis is bright.