11413, Springfield Gardens, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11413, Springfield Gardens, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.62 percent of residents in 11413 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 4.00 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 11413

The air in Springfield Gardens, ZIP code 11413, carries the whispers of community, the rumble of passing vehicles, and the ever-present question of healthcare access. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" if you will, considers the critical element of transportation, a vital artery connecting residents to potentially life-saving medical care, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching specialists, treatment centers, and support services is paramount. This score will illuminate the landscape for residents, especially those considering moving to Springfield Gardens, and highlight the challenges and opportunities within this vital sphere.

The journey to healthcare in 11413 begins with the roadways. The Long Island Expressway (LIE), a major artery, offers a direct, albeit often congested, route to numerous hospitals and medical facilities. Driving east on the LIE provides access to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, a comprehensive cancer center. Westbound, the LIE leads to facilities in Queens and Manhattan. The Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) provides another crucial link, offering a more direct route south towards JFK Airport and connecting to the Belt Parkway, which then offers access to hospitals in Brooklyn and Staten Island.

Local roads play a crucial role in the daily commute. The Cross Island Parkway, while generally smooth-flowing, can become congested during peak hours. Linden Boulevard, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to local businesses and connects to the Van Wyck Expressway. Springfield Boulevard, a north-south artery, offers access to residential areas and connects to major roadways. The speed and reliability of these roads, however, are subject to the whims of traffic, construction, and the unpredictable nature of New York City's transportation system.

Public transit offers an alternative, albeit one with its own set of challenges. The New York City Transit Authority (NYCT) provides bus service throughout 11413. The Q85, Q84, and Q4 routes are key for residents. The Q85 travels along Linden Boulevard, offering connections to the subway system and various medical facilities. The Q84 serves Springfield Gardens and connects to the Jamaica subway station. The Q4 provides service along Guy R. Brewer Boulevard.

The accessibility of public transit is a crucial factor. Many buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a significant barrier. The journey to specialist appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments can be lengthy and arduous, adding stress to an already difficult situation.

Beyond the roadways and buses, ride-sharing services offer another avenue for transportation. Uber and Lyft are readily available in 11413, providing on-demand transportation. While convenient, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment. Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate patients with mobility issues. However, availability and insurance coverage vary, making them a potential source of uncertainty.

The distance to healthcare facilities is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The proximity of hospitals and cancer centers directly impacts the ease of access to treatment. While several hospitals are accessible via the LIE and Van Wyck Expressway, the commute can be time-consuming, especially during peak hours. For instance, the drive to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan can take over an hour, depending on traffic. Closer options include Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and Long Island Jewish Medical Center, but even these require careful consideration of travel time and mode of transportation.

The availability of specialized care is another critical aspect. Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and support staff. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance is vital. Access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments can also significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 11413 is complex. While the roadways offer access to a range of healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles can be problematic due to traffic congestion and parking challenges. Public transit provides an alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and accessibility can pose significant barriers. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer convenience but come with associated costs.

The challenges are compounded by the emotional and physical toll of a lung cancer diagnosis. The need for frequent appointments, the side effects of treatment, and the stress of navigating the healthcare system can make transportation a significant obstacle. For those considering moving to Springfield Gardens, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is crucial.

The Lung Cancer Score for 11413 highlights the importance of proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including bus routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers. They should also research the locations of nearby hospitals and cancer centers and assess the ease of access to these facilities.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of 11413 have timely and convenient access to the healthcare they need. This requires a multifaceted approach that considers the complexities of transportation, the availability of specialized care, and the emotional and physical challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. The Lung Cancer Score is a reminder that the journey to healthcare is as important as the destination itself.