11378, Maspeth, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11378, Maspeth, New York is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.01 percent of residents in 11378 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elmhurst Hospital Center with a distance of 1.59 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 11378 (Maspeth, NY)

This analysis assesses healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 11378 (Maspeth, NY), focusing on transportation options relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the ease and efficiency of reaching key healthcare facilities, recognizing the critical role transportation plays in a patient's journey. This is especially vital for individuals facing the physical and emotional challenges of lung cancer. Considering moving to Maspeth? This is a crucial factor to consider.

Maspeth, a vibrant Queens neighborhood, offers a blend of residential and commercial spaces. However, its location necessitates careful consideration of transportation options for accessing specialized healthcare services. The availability and efficiency of transportation significantly impact a patient’s ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive necessary follow-up care.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many Maspeth residents. The Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) is a major artery, providing relatively quick access to hospitals in Manhattan and Long Island. However, rush hour traffic on the LIE can be notoriously congested, significantly extending travel times. The Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE, I-278), while offering another route, is often even more challenging, notorious for its sharp turns and heavy traffic.

Reaching Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, a leading cancer center, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, also in Manhattan, presents a similar commute. Hospitals in Nassau County, such as Winthrop Hospital (NYU Langone Health), are accessible via the LIE, but the drive can easily exceed an hour, especially during peak hours. Local roads, including Grand Avenue, 58th Street, and 69th Street, offer alternative routes, but they are often congested with local traffic.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive or seeking to avoid traffic. The New York City Transit system provides several options. The Q59 bus runs along Grand Avenue, offering a direct connection to the 7 train at 74th Street-Broadway station. The 7 train provides access to Manhattan, including hospitals along the route. The Q58 bus travels along 58th Street, connecting to the M train at the Fresh Pond Road station, and the Q54 bus travels along 54th Avenue, connecting to the E, M, and R trains at the Queens Plaza station.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. While the MTA strives to improve accessibility, not all stations are fully ADA-compliant. The 7 train line is generally accessible, but it's crucial to confirm the specific accessibility features of each station along the route. Bus routes are generally ADA-compliant, with features like ramps and audio announcements.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They offer door-to-door service, which can be particularly helpful for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. However, ride-share costs can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and GoMedical, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. They offer a valuable resource for individuals who require specialized assistance or who are unable to use other transportation options. The availability and cost of these services should be factored into the overall assessment.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" must evaluate the accessibility of key healthcare facilities. This includes hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers, pulmonology specialists, radiation oncology departments, and supportive care services. The proximity of these facilities to Maspeth, along with the efficiency of transportation options, significantly influences the score.

The availability of specialized services, such as clinical trials and advanced imaging technologies, also plays a crucial role. Patients with lung cancer often require a multidisciplinary approach, involving oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and supportive care providers. The ability to access these specialists and services efficiently is paramount.

**Beyond Transportation: The Holistic View:**

While transportation is a central component, the "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider other factors. These include the availability of community resources, such as support groups and patient advocacy organizations. The presence of a strong social support network can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and overall well-being.

Furthermore, the score should acknowledge the importance of financial assistance programs and insurance coverage. The cost of cancer treatment can be substantial, and access to affordable healthcare is essential. The availability of resources to help patients navigate the complexities of insurance and financial aid is a critical factor.

**Conclusion: A Score Reflecting Reality:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 11378, Maspeth, must reflect the reality of accessing healthcare in this community. While the neighborhood benefits from its proximity to major hospitals in Manhattan and Long Island, the challenges of traffic congestion and the limitations of public transportation must be acknowledged. The score should incorporate the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, as well as the accessibility of support resources.

For residents considering moving to Maspeth, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The goal is to create a score that is both comprehensive and practical, reflecting the real-world challenges and opportunities facing individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer care in this vibrant Queens neighborhood.