11367, Flushing, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11367, Flushing, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.42 percent of residents in 11367 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Queens Hospital Center with a distance of 1.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11367

The air hangs heavy with the scent of street food and ambition in Flushing, Queens, ZIP code 11367. A vibrant tapestry woven with languages, cultures, and a relentless pursuit of the American dream, this community, like any other, faces the specter of illness, including the formidable challenge of lung cancer. Understanding the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare, particularly for such a critical diagnosis, is paramount. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of 11367, evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer-specific healthcare facilities. It considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive view of the commute to care.

The assessment begins with an examination of vehicular transportation. Residents of 11367, particularly those residing near the bustling Main Street and Kissena Park areas, often rely on cars. Driving to medical facilities, especially those specializing in lung cancer treatment, is a significant factor in the overall score. The Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) serves as a primary artery, connecting Flushing to hospitals in Manhattan and Long Island. However, rush hour, a daily reality, can transform a seemingly short drive into a grueling ordeal. The Cross Island Parkway, another critical route, provides access to hospitals in the Bronx and further east on Long Island.

A drive to NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens in nearby Flushing, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment, typically takes around 10-15 minutes without traffic. However, during peak hours, the commute can easily double, especially when navigating the congested streets of Flushing, including Main Street, Northern Boulevard, and Kissena Boulevard. Driving to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, a world-renowned cancer center, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions on the LIE or the Grand Central Parkway. The commute to Northwell Health facilities on Long Island, such as Long Island Jewish Medical Center, also requires careful consideration of traffic patterns.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its effectiveness varies depending on the specific location within 11367. The New York City Subway provides a crucial link to healthcare facilities. The 7 train, with stations along Main Street and Roosevelt Avenue, is a lifeline. Taking the 7 train to Manhattan provides access to several hospitals, including Memorial Sloan Kettering and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. The journey, while generally reliable, can be crowded, especially during rush hour. Moreover, the distance from the subway station to the hospital entrance can add to the overall commute time, impacting those with mobility issues.

The Q20A, Q20B, and Q44 buses, traversing the streets of Flushing, provide connections to various hospitals and medical centers. These buses, while offering more localized coverage, are often subject to traffic delays, adding unpredictability to the commute. The accessibility of these bus routes is also crucial, with a focus on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and announcements are made regarding stops, enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the overall travel time can be significant considerations, particularly for patients needing prompt medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, especially for those who may not drive or prefer not to navigate public transit. The availability of these services in 11367 is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. The surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further exacerbate the financial burden. Moreover, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be inconsistent, and the availability of vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges is not always guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, provide a more specialized option. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often provide door-to-door service, alleviating the stress of navigating public transportation or relying on ride-sharing. While offering a more tailored approach, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent situations.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities offering lung cancer-specific services. NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens, located within Flushing, provides a convenient option for residents. However, the availability of specialized services, such as advanced imaging and radiation therapy, may necessitate travel to other facilities. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan and Northwell Health facilities on Long Island offer comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment, but the commute to these facilities can be a major challenge. The availability of specialists, the waiting times for appointments, and the overall quality of care also influence the Lung Cancer Score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 11367 is a complex calculation, weighing the accessibility of healthcare facilities against the challenges of transportation. The score is influenced by factors such as drive times, public transit reliability, ride-sharing costs, and the availability of medical transportation services. The overall accessibility is moderate. While the proximity of NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens provides a convenient option, the need to travel to Manhattan or Long Island for specialized care adds complexity. The public transportation options are available, but the commute times and potential for delays must be considered. Ride-sharing services offer flexibility, but the cost can be prohibitive.

For individuals considering moving to Flushing, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Careful consideration of proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the affordability of ride-sharing services is crucial. The ability to easily access medical care is a critical factor in the quality of life and the overall health outcomes for residents of 11367. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is not just a numerical assessment; it's a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents in their fight against this devastating disease. It highlights the need for continued investment in public transportation, the expansion of specialized healthcare services within the community, and the exploration of innovative transportation solutions to improve healthcare access for all residents of 11367.