11354, Flushing, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11354, Flushing, New York is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.73 percent of residents in 11354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flushing Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 0.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Flushing, NY (ZIP Code 11354)

Considering a move to the vibrant community of Flushing, New York (ZIP Code 11354)? This detailed analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer, with a specific focus on transportation options. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone, especially those with pre-existing health concerns, when assessing their healthcare access. The score reflects the relative ease or difficulty of reaching specialized medical care from various points within the ZIP code.

The Lung Cancer Score considers multiple facets of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, and even ride-sharing services. It assesses drive times, public transportation routes, and the availability of medical transport, all critical components in determining how quickly and easily a resident can access potentially life-saving treatment. This analysis emphasizes the importance of **transportation** in **healthcare access**, especially for a disease like lung cancer where timely diagnosis and treatment are paramount.

The primary focus is on the availability of comprehensive lung cancer care, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), pulmonology specialists, oncologists, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The proximity of these services, and the ease with which they can be reached, forms the core of the Lung Cancer Score.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For residents of 11354 who rely on personal vehicles, the major roadways significantly influence access to healthcare. The Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) provides a crucial artery for east-west travel, connecting Flushing to hospitals in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, as well as Manhattan. Traffic congestion on the LIE, especially during peak hours, can dramatically increase travel times, making a seemingly short distance a significant barrier to timely care.

The Grand Central Parkway, another major thoroughfare, offers a more direct route to hospitals in Queens and Manhattan. However, this parkway also experiences heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. The Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) provides an alternative route, but its proximity to LaGuardia Airport can lead to unpredictable delays.

Specific hospitals within reasonable driving distance include NewYork-Presbyterian Queens (56-45 Main St, Flushing, NY 11355), which is located directly within the ZIP code. Drive times to this facility are generally short, but can be significantly impacted by local traffic. Other options include Mount Sinai Queens (25-10 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11102), and major medical centers in Manhattan, such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065). Drive times to Manhattan can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Subway and Buses:**

Flushing benefits from robust public transportation options, making it a relatively accessible area for those without a car. The 7 train (subway) is a lifeline for residents, providing direct access to Manhattan and connections to other subway lines. The 7 train's accessibility is a major plus, with many stations in the area equipped with elevators and ramps, making them ADA-compliant.

The Q20A, Q20B, and Q44 buses serve as vital feeder routes, connecting residents to the 7 train and other transportation hubs. These buses offer frequent service, and many are also ADA-accessible. However, bus travel times can be significantly impacted by traffic, potentially adding considerable time to the journey to a hospital or medical appointment.

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers another option, with the Flushing Main Street station providing a direct route to Penn Station in Manhattan. The LIRR can be a faster option than the subway, particularly during peak hours, but it requires a walk or bus ride to the station for many residents.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Lung Cancer Score gives significant weight to ADA accessibility. The availability of elevators, ramps, and accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, including those undergoing cancer treatment. While the 7 train offers good accessibility, it is essential to confirm the accessibility of specific stations and bus routes before relying on public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services are readily available in Flushing and can be a reliable option for getting to and from medical appointments. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services, such as MedRide and CareRide, specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. While they provide a valuable service, medical transport can be expensive, and availability may be limited.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment:**

The Lung Cancer Score is not a single numerical value, but rather a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. It considers the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability and speed of transportation options, the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities, and the cost of available services.

A higher score indicates better access to care, with shorter travel times, more accessible transportation options, and a greater availability of specialized medical services. A lower score suggests that access to care may be more challenging, with longer travel times, limited transportation options, and potential barriers to accessing specialized medical services.

**Moving to Flushing: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

For individuals considering **moving to Flushing** with a history of lung cancer, or those at high risk, the Lung Cancer Score is a crucial element in the decision-making process. The proximity of NewYork-Presbyterian Queens is a significant advantage, providing access to local care. The robust public transportation network offers accessibility, though traffic delays remain a challenge. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options.

However, the reliance on the LIE and Grand Central Parkway for access to specialized care in Manhattan necessitates careful consideration of traffic patterns. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport must also be factored into the equation.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 11354 reflects a community with relatively good access to healthcare, particularly for those who can utilize public transportation or ride-sharing. However, the dependence on major roadways and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning. The score emphasizes the importance of considering **transportation** when assessing **healthcare access**, especially when dealing with a complex disease like lung cancer. The accessibility of the 7 train and the presence of a local hospital are significant advantages for residents, making Flushing a potentially attractive location for those seeking comprehensive lung cancer care.