11355, Flushing, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11355, Flushing, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.48 percent of residents in 11355 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New York-Presbyterian/Queens with a distance of 0.38 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Flushing, NY (ZIP Code 11355)

Moving to Flushing, Queens (ZIP code 11355), presents a vibrant tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and convenient transportation options. However, when considering healthcare access, especially for a critical illness like lung cancer, a nuanced understanding of the local transportation landscape is crucial. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, analyzing the accessibility of lung cancer specialists and treatment centers from various points within 11355. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for residents and prospective movers alike.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment. It reflects the ease and efficiency with which a patient can reach essential healthcare services, acknowledging the potential challenges faced by individuals undergoing treatment. Factors such as traffic congestion, public transit reliability, and the availability of specialized transportation services are all considered.

**Driving the Healthcare Route:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the major thoroughfares surrounding 11355 offer varied routes to medical facilities. The Long Island Expressway (LIE/I-495) is a primary artery, providing relatively direct access to hospitals in both directions, but often experiences heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. A trip to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) in Manhattan, a leading cancer treatment facility, could take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.

The Grand Central Parkway, another critical roadway, offers a slightly less congested route, especially for destinations east of Flushing. However, it also faces rush-hour bottlenecks. The Cross Island Parkway provides access to facilities on Long Island, potentially offering alternative routes, but again, traffic is a constant consideration. Local roads like Northern Boulevard (Route 25A) and Main Street, while offering convenient access to local businesses, are often congested and may add significant time to a medical appointment commute.

Parking availability at hospitals is another critical factor. Many hospitals, especially those in Manhattan, have limited parking, often at a premium. This adds another layer of complexity to the transportation equation, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that may make driving difficult.

**Public Transit: A Complex Web:**

New York City's public transit system, the MetroMetropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), offers a comprehensive network of subways and buses, providing a vital transportation lifeline for many residents of 11355. The 7 train, a key subway line, has multiple stops within the zip code, providing direct access to Manhattan and connections to other subway lines. This is a significant advantage for accessing MSKCC and other Manhattan-based medical centers.

However, the 7 train can be subject to delays, especially during weekends and off-peak hours. Furthermore, the stations in 11355 are not all fully ADA accessible, meaning that individuals with mobility impairments may face challenges. The MTA is working to improve accessibility, but progress is ongoing.

The Q20A, Q20B, Q44, Q27, Q12, Q13, Q15, Q16, Q17, Q25, Q26, Q34, Q48, Q65, Q66, Q88, and Q90 bus routes serve 11355, providing connections to various parts of Queens and beyond. Buses offer a more localized transportation option, but they can be subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hour. Some bus routes are also more frequent than others.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 11355, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They provide door-to-door service, which can be particularly helpful for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. However, ride-sharing costs can add up, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While they offer a valuable service, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 11355 is, therefore, complex. The area boasts good *transportation* options, but each has its limitations. The availability of multiple *transportation* modes creates options, but also necessitates careful planning.

The score acknowledges the accessibility of major cancer treatment centers via the 7 train and the LIE, yet it highlights the potential for delays and traffic congestion. The presence of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services improves the score, especially for those with mobility issues, but the cost factor must be considered.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

For individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment, the following considerations are particularly important:

* **Treatment Frequency:** Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care necessitate reliable and convenient *transportation*.
* **Mobility Issues:** Lung cancer and its treatments can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other mobility limitations, making accessible *transportation* a priority.
* **Proximity to Specialists:** Access to specialized lung cancer physicians, surgeons, and support services is critical.
* **Support System:** The availability of family, friends, or caregivers to assist with *transportation* and appointments can significantly impact the quality of life during treatment.

**Moving to Flushing: A Balanced Perspective:**

Moving to Flushing offers many benefits, including a vibrant community, diverse cultural experiences, and access to excellent healthcare. However, prospective residents, especially those with existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer, should carefully consider the *transportation* challenges associated with accessing medical care.

Before making a move, potential residents should research the proximity of lung cancer specialists and treatment centers, evaluate the accessibility of public transit options, and assess the availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services. Understanding these factors will allow them to make an informed decision and ensure they have access to the healthcare they need.

The Lung Cancer Score for 11355 is not a definitive judgment but a framework for understanding the *transportation* landscape. It underscores the need for careful planning and proactive consideration of healthcare access when choosing a place to live. The ability to navigate the *transportation* options effectively is crucial for patients undergoing lung cancer treatment, ensuring they can focus on their health and well-being.