11374, Rego Park, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11374, Rego Park, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.61 percent of residents in 11374 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elmhurst Hospital Center with a distance of 1.82 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rego Park (ZIP Code 11374)

Rego Park, a vibrant Queens neighborhood, beckons with its diverse community and convenient location. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score," assesses the transportation landscape within ZIP code 11374, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities for residents, particularly those requiring frequent medical attention. The goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the transportation network to maintain optimal health. This is especially crucial for those considering moving to Rego Park, ensuring they understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

The cornerstone of this evaluation rests on the critical need for timely and reliable transportation. Hypertension management frequently demands regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits. Therefore, the efficiency and dependability of transportation options directly impact a patient's ability to adhere to their prescribed treatment plan and maintain their well-being. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access.

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of Rego Park are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) and Queens Boulevard. The LIE, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers swift access to hospitals and medical centers outside the immediate vicinity, such as those in Long Island City or even further east. However, rush hour congestion, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times, potentially exacerbating stress levels, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure. Queens Boulevard, a bustling commercial corridor, provides more direct access to local medical facilities. However, traffic on Queens Boulevard is often heavy, and parking availability can be a challenge.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within a five-mile radius of Rego Park vary considerably depending on the time of day and the specific destination. During off-peak hours, a trip to NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, located in Flushing, might take 15-20 minutes via the LIE or Queens Boulevard. However, during peak hours, this commute could easily double. Similarly, accessing Mount Sinai Queens in Long Island City could take 10-15 minutes in light traffic, but potentially 30 minutes or more during rush hour. The availability of parking at these facilities also impacts the overall experience, potentially adding to the stress of a medical appointment.

Public transportation offers an alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The New York City Subway provides several options for accessing healthcare facilities. The E, M, and R trains serve Rego Park, offering connections to various hospitals and medical centers throughout Queens and Manhattan. The E train, for example, provides direct access to the Long Island City-Court Square station, which is within walking distance of several medical offices. The R train offers access to Elmhurst Hospital Center, a major public hospital. The M train offers access to various hospitals in Manhattan.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor in assessing public transit suitability. While the MTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility, not all stations are fully equipped with elevators and ramps. Individuals with mobility limitations should carefully check the accessibility features of each station and route before planning their trip. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can impact the convenience and reliability of public transit. The MTA Trip Planner is an invaluable resource for planning accessible routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. These services offer door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate parking or walk long distances. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with high demand. The wait times for a ride-sharing vehicle can also be unpredictable, potentially impacting the timeliness of medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can be particularly valuable for patients with mobility limitations or those undergoing medical procedures. Several companies operate in the Rego Park area, including Access-A-Ride, a paratransit service operated by the MTA, and various private medical transportation providers. However, these services often require advance booking, and availability may be limited.

Healthcare access is not solely defined by physical transportation. The proximity of pharmacies, where medications can be obtained, also plays a vital role. Rego Park boasts numerous pharmacies, including chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. This widespread availability of pharmacies ensures that residents can readily access their prescribed medications, a critical component of hypertension management.

The "Hypertension Score" for Rego Park (11374) is multifaceted. While the neighborhood offers a variety of transportation options, each presents its own set of challenges. Personal vehicles are subject to traffic congestion and parking limitations. Public transit offers cost-effectiveness but may present accessibility issues and schedule constraints. Ride-sharing services provide convenience but can be expensive and subject to fluctuating availability. Specialized medical transport caters to specific needs but requires advance planning.

For individuals considering moving to Rego Park, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit should carefully evaluate the accessibility of their preferred routes and the frequency of service. Those who rely on personal vehicles should factor in traffic congestion and parking availability. Individuals with mobility limitations should explore the availability of accessible transportation options, including ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Rego Park reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the neighborhood offers a range of transportation choices, the optimal mode of transportation depends on individual circumstances and needs. Careful planning, consideration of potential challenges, and proactive utilization of available resources are essential for ensuring efficient and reliable access to healthcare, a cornerstone of effective hypertension management and overall well-being. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is crucial for anyone seeking to maintain their health while living in this dynamic Queens neighborhood.