11417, Ozone Park, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 11417, Ozone Park, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.86 percent of residents in 11417 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 2.21 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ozone Park (ZIP Code 11417)

Ozone Park, nestled in the vibrant tapestry of Queens, New York, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the transportation challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 11417. Understanding the complexities of getting to medical appointments is paramount for individuals living with hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and care. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" based on the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare facilities, particularly for those considering moving to Ozone Park or already residing there.

The "Hypertension Score" will assess the various transportation options available, considering factors like drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transport services. This holistic approach will empower residents to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare management and overall well-being.

**The Road Ahead: Driving to Healthcare**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, the primary arteries of transportation in Ozone Park are the Belt Parkway, the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678), and the Conduit Avenue. The Belt Parkway offers relatively smooth sailing, particularly during off-peak hours, providing access to hospitals and medical centers in Brooklyn and Long Island. However, the Van Wyck Expressway, notorious for its congestion, can significantly impact drive times, especially during rush hour. This can be a major hurdle for those with hypertension, as stress and anxiety associated with traffic can exacerbate the condition.

Conduit Avenue, a more local thoroughfare, offers access to smaller clinics and medical offices within Ozone Park and neighboring areas. The drive times on Conduit Avenue fluctuate depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Navigating the local streets, such as Liberty Avenue and Atlantic Avenue, can also present challenges, with potential for stop-and-go traffic and limited parking options near medical facilities.

Drive times to major hospitals, like Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, located just outside of Ozone Park, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Traveling to hospitals in Manhattan, such as NewYork-Presbyterian, can take upwards of an hour or more, making it a significant time commitment for regular check-ups and appointments. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect these drive time variations, considering peak and off-peak travel scenarios.

**Public Transit: A Network of Accessibility**

The New York City public transportation system, primarily the subway and bus network, provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The A train, running along Liberty Avenue, offers a direct route to Manhattan and connections to other subway lines. The E train, accessible via the Sutphin Boulevard-Archer Avenue station, provides another option for reaching various destinations.

The Q11, Q21, Q24, Q41, Q42, Q52 SBS, Q53 SBS, Q88, and Q10 bus routes serve Ozone Park, connecting residents to local medical facilities and subway stations. However, the frequency of these buses and the potential for delays can be a concern, especially for individuals with hypertension who need to adhere to strict appointment schedules.

Accessibility is a crucial factor. The MetroMetropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) strives to provide ADA-accessible features, including elevators and ramps, at many subway stations and on buses. However, not all stations are fully accessible, and the availability of elevators can be unpredictable. This is a significant consideration for individuals with mobility issues or those using assistive devices. The "Hypertension Score" will account for the accessibility of public transit routes and the potential for delays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services are readily available in Ozone Park and can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and Ambulnz, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While medical transport can be a valuable resource, it is typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit and may require advance booking. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the availability, cost, and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport options.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" will be a composite metric, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to major hospitals and clinics during peak and off-peak hours, factoring in traffic congestion on the Belt Parkway, Van Wyck Expressway, and Conduit Avenue.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The proximity of public transit routes (A, E trains and various bus lines) to medical facilities and the availability of ADA-accessible features.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The ease of accessing ride-sharing services (Uber and Lyft) and the associated costs.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The density of medical offices and clinics within Ozone Park and surrounding areas.

The "Hypertension Score" will provide a numerical rating, along with a descriptive analysis of the transportation landscape in Ozone Park. A higher score will indicate greater ease and efficiency in accessing healthcare facilities, while a lower score will highlight potential challenges. This score will be a valuable tool for residents of Ozone Park, particularly those managing hypertension, providing them with the information they need to navigate the transportation landscape and prioritize their healthcare needs.

**Moving to Ozone Park: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Ozone Park, the "Hypertension Score" will be a crucial factor in evaluating the neighborhood's suitability. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of diverse transportation options, and the accessibility of these options will directly impact the quality of life for those managing hypertension. The ability to easily access medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related services is essential for maintaining optimal health.

The "Hypertension Score" will empower prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being. It will also provide a valuable framework for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within Ozone Park, allowing residents to proactively plan for their healthcare needs.