11355, Flushing, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11355, Flushing, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.48 percent of residents in 11355 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New York-Presbyterian/Queens with a distance of 0.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Flushing, NY (ZIP Code 11355)

The tapestry of health and well-being in Flushing, New York (ZIP code 11355), is intricately woven with threads of accessibility. A crucial component of this fabric is the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the transportation landscape, examining the various pathways to medical care, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, all within the context of a dynamic and densely populated urban environment. Understanding these options is paramount for anyone considering moving to Flushing or seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The foundation of healthcare access in Flushing begins with the roadways. Navigating the borough by car presents both opportunities and challenges. The Long Island Expressway (LIE), also known as I-495, serves as a major artery, providing a direct route to numerous hospitals and medical facilities. However, peak-hour traffic congestion can significantly extend travel times. The Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) offers another crucial link, connecting Flushing to John F. Kennedy International Airport and providing access to healthcare facilities further south. Local roads like Northern Boulevard, Kissena Boulevard, and Main Street are vital for accessing neighborhood clinics and doctor's offices, yet they are often choked with traffic, especially during rush hour.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in Flushing vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, a major hospital, might take 15 minutes in off-peak hours from central Flushing, but could easily stretch to 45 minutes or more during rush hour on the LIE. Smaller clinics and urgent care centers within Flushing, such as those located on Main Street, offer more immediate access, often reachable within a 10-15 minute drive. Consider these variations when evaluating your healthcare needs and choosing a location within the neighborhood.

Public transportation offers a robust alternative to driving, particularly for those seeking to avoid the stress of traffic and parking. The New York City Subway system provides extensive coverage. The 7 train, a key line for Flushing residents, runs directly through the heart of the neighborhood, with stops at Main Street, Flushing-Mets-Willets Point, and other convenient locations. This line offers connections to other subway lines, facilitating travel to hospitals and medical centers throughout the city. The subway is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps at many stations, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards.

Beyond the subway, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers another transportation option. The LIRR’s Port Washington Branch has a station in Flushing, connecting residents to Manhattan and other parts of Long Island. This can be a faster option for reaching certain healthcare facilities, particularly those located near Penn Station or other LIRR hubs. However, the LIRR is typically more expensive than the subway, and schedules may be less frequent.

The New York City bus system complements the subway network, providing a comprehensive network of routes throughout Flushing. The Q19, Q20A, Q20B, Q25, Q26, Q27, Q34, Q44, Q48, Q65, Q66, and Q68 buses all serve the 11355 ZIP code, offering connections to various healthcare providers and other transit options. Bus travel times can be unpredictable due to traffic, but they provide a valuable service, especially for those living outside of easy walking distance to subway stations. Many buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in Flushing. They offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those with mobility issues or who need a door-to-door service. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost. These services can be particularly useful for those who need to travel to appointments at hospitals or clinics located outside of easy walking distance to public transit.

For individuals with specific medical needs, specialized medical transportation services are available. These services cater to patients who require assistance with mobility or who need to be transported in a wheelchair or stretcher. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and TransCare provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair van services. These services require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot travel independently.

Evaluating healthcare access in Flushing necessitates considering the interplay of these transportation options. The proximity of healthcare facilities to public transit stops, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility features of the subway and buses all contribute to the overall health score. The density of the population and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning and consideration of the most efficient routes.

When moving to Flushing, or assessing the suitability of the neighborhood, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. The ease of reaching healthcare providers directly impacts the quality of life and the ability to manage health conditions effectively. Consider the location of your home relative to hospitals, clinics, and public transit options. Evaluate your personal transportation needs and preferences, taking into account factors such as mobility, budget, and time constraints.

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in Flushing, NY (ZIP code 11355), is complex. While the availability of public transit is robust, the reliance on roadways and the potential for traffic congestion present challenges. The presence of ride-sharing and specialized medical transportation services adds another layer of accessibility. For individuals who are able to navigate the transportation options, and for those who are able to walk to local clinics, healthcare access is generally good. However, those who rely on driving during rush hour, or who require specialized transportation, may face more significant obstacles. The best approach is to thoroughly research the available options, considering your individual needs and circumstances, to determine the most suitable path to accessing healthcare in this vibrant and diverse community.