11435, Jamaica, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11435, Jamaica, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.01 percent of residents in 11435 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 0.43 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 11435

The quest for timely and effective healthcare, particularly for a disease as formidable as lung cancer, hinges on a critical factor: accessibility. In the vibrant, multifaceted ZIP Code of 11435, encompassing the heart of Jamaica, Queens, this accessibility is intricately woven with the threads of *transportation*. This write-up delves into the nuances of navigating the healthcare landscape in 11435, focusing on the challenges and opportunities that patients face when seeking lung cancer treatment, and how *transportation* options influence their journey. For individuals *moving to Jamaica* or already residing here, understanding these dynamics is paramount.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 11435 isn't a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive assessment of the *transportation* landscape's impact on healthcare access, specifically for lung cancer patients. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical *transportation* services, all within the context of the area's demographics and healthcare infrastructure.

One of the primary considerations is the proximity of hospitals and specialized cancer centers. Residents of 11435 have a few options, but each presents unique *transportation* challenges. The Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Hospital, located a few miles away, is a viable option. Driving via the Grand Central Parkway, a major artery, can be relatively straightforward outside of peak hours. However, during rush hour, the parkway becomes a congested parking lot, significantly extending travel times. The Van Wyck Expressway, another critical route, also experiences heavy traffic, especially near John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The drive to the Mount Sinai Queens hospital, located in Astoria, is another possibility. This trip involves navigating the Long Island Expressway (LIE), known for its notorious traffic, and the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE), which can be equally challenging. The journey, even a seemingly short distance, can easily stretch into an hour or more during peak congestion.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit offers an alternative, albeit one with its own set of hurdles. The New York City Subway provides extensive coverage in 11435. The E, J, and Z trains serve the area, offering connections to hospitals and cancer centers. The E train, in particular, provides access to several hospitals in Manhattan. However, subway travel can be physically demanding, especially for patients undergoing treatment. Navigating crowded platforms, climbing stairs, and the potential for delays can exacerbate existing health challenges. While the subway system is mandated to be ADA-compliant, accessibility varies depending on the station. Not all stations are equipped with elevators or ramps, making the journey difficult for individuals with mobility issues.

Bus service, operated by the MTA, supplements the subway network. Several bus routes, including the Q4, Q5, Q6, and Q10, crisscross 11435, providing local *transportation* options. Buses offer a more direct route to some medical facilities, but they are also susceptible to traffic delays. The availability of accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating, is crucial for patients with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of *transportation* options. They offer door-to-door service, potentially reducing travel time and eliminating the need for transfers. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some patients, especially those undergoing frequent treatments. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can further inflate costs.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and CareRide provide non-emergency medical *transportation* to and from medical appointments. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While these services can be invaluable, they can also be expensive, and availability may vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific service provider.

The healthcare infrastructure in 11435 includes several primary care physicians and specialists. However, access to specialized cancer care often requires travel to larger hospitals and cancer centers. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and social workers, can significantly impact the patient experience. These professionals can assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and arranging *transportation*.

The demographics of 11435 are diverse, with a significant immigrant population. Language barriers can pose an additional challenge for some patients, making it difficult to understand medical information and navigate the healthcare system. The availability of interpreters and culturally sensitive healthcare providers is essential to ensure equitable access to care.

For individuals *moving to Jamaica*, understanding the *transportation* landscape is vital. Researching the proximity of hospitals and cancer centers, familiarizing themselves with public transit routes, and exploring ride-sharing and medical *transportation* options are crucial steps. Assessing the accessibility of the healthcare facilities, including ADA compliance, is equally important.

The "Lung Cancer Score" in 11435 is not a simple metric. It's a complex interplay of factors, including *transportation* options, healthcare infrastructure, demographics, and socioeconomic considerations. For lung cancer patients, the ability to navigate this complex landscape can directly impact their access to timely and effective care. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities for improvement. Continued investment in public *transportation*, expansion of accessible services, and the provision of comprehensive patient support are essential to improve healthcare access and outcomes for lung cancer patients in 11435. This is a journey that requires careful planning, proactive engagement, and a commitment to ensuring that all residents, regardless of their *transportation* limitations, have access to the care they need.