11004, Glen Oaks, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11004, Glen Oaks, New York is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.12 percent of residents in 11004 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Long Island Jewish Medical Center with a distance of 0.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11004 (Glen Oaks, NY)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its access to healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 11004 (Glen Oaks, NY), provides an "Overall Health Score" predicated on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Glen Oaks, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain and improve their well-being.

Glen Oaks, a residential enclave in Queens, offers a suburban feel with the conveniences of urban proximity. However, its location necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options when considering healthcare access. The Overall Health Score reflects the availability, reliability, and efficiency of these options, painting a comprehensive picture for prospective residents.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of personal vehicles, the commute to healthcare facilities in and around Glen Oaks relies heavily on the road network. The primary arteries are the Grand Central Parkway, the Cross Island Parkway, and Union Turnpike. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, are subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

The drive time to major hospitals like Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, a crucial destination for many Glen Oaks residents, can vary significantly. During off-peak hours, the journey via the Grand Central Parkway and the Long Island Expressway (LIE) might take around 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this can easily double or even triple, impacting the Overall Health Score.

Similarly, accessing facilities in neighboring areas, such as Queens General Hospital, requires navigating the Cross Island Parkway and other local roads. The distance is relatively short, but the potential for delays, especially during accidents or inclement weather, must be considered. Understanding these potential delays is vital when evaluating the suitability of Glen Oaks for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag:**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, but its effectiveness varies. The primary public transit options are the New York City Transit (NYCT) buses. Several bus routes serve Glen Oaks, including the Q46, Q88, and Q1. These buses connect to various healthcare facilities, including the aforementioned Long Island Jewish Medical Center and other medical offices.

The Q46, for example, provides a direct route to the Long Island Jewish Medical Center, making it a convenient option for many residents. However, bus travel times can be unpredictable due to traffic, and the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, may not always be ideal. This impacts the Overall Health Score, as it affects the accessibility of healthcare.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a critical factor. All NYCT buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the reliability of these features and the availability of accessible routes to specific medical facilities should be carefully investigated. This is a significant consideration for anyone with mobility challenges.

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers another option, although it is less directly connected to Glen Oaks. Residents might need to take a bus to a nearby LIRR station, such as the Floral Park or Bellerose stations, and then take the train to a hospital or medical center. This adds an extra layer of complexity and time to the commute, impacting the Overall Health Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient alternative to both driving and public transportation. These services are readily available in Glen Oaks and offer door-to-door service to medical appointments. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and American Medical Response, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs who require assistance with transportation. These services often provide 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 transportation, affecting the Overall Health Score for those with limited financial resources.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View:**

The Overall Health Score for Glen Oaks (ZIP Code 11004) is a composite of these factors. It considers the drive times, the reliability and accessibility of public transportation, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score also takes into account the proximity of various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist offices.

The presence of major hospitals like Long Island Jewish Medical Center and the availability of numerous medical offices within a reasonable distance contribute positively to the score. However, the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing services can negatively impact the score.

For someone considering moving to Glen Oaks, this information is critical. It allows them to assess the practicality of accessing healthcare based on their individual needs and circumstances. Someone who relies on public transportation, for example, will need to consider the bus routes, their frequency, and their ADA accessibility. A person with a chronic condition will need to factor in the potential for traffic delays and the availability of medical transport services.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for Glen Oaks, ZIP Code 11004, is a nuanced assessment of healthcare access. While the area benefits from the proximity of major hospitals and the availability of various transportation options, the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services must be considered. This information provides a valuable framework for prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and the suitability of Glen Oaks as a place to live. It is a reminder that when evaluating a community, the ease with which one can access healthcare is as important as any other amenity.