11358, Flushing, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11358, Flushing, New York is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.95 percent of residents in 11358 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flushing Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 1.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11358 (Flushing, NY)

Navigating the intricate tapestry of healthcare access within the vibrant community of Flushing, New York (ZIP Code 11358) demands a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This analysis, an "Overall Health Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare facilities, providing prospective residents and current inhabitants with a clear picture of their access to vital medical services. Factors considered include drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed portrait of healthcare accessibility within this dynamic Queens neighborhood.

The cornerstone of healthcare accessibility in Flushing is the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the commute is often dictated by the ebb and flow of New York City traffic. Major arteries like the **Long Island Expressway (LIE) (I-495)**, the **Grand Central Parkway**, and the **Van Wyck Expressway (I-678)** serve as primary conduits to hospitals and clinics. Drive times fluctuate dramatically, particularly during peak hours. A seemingly short distance can transform into a protracted journey, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and the utilization of real-time traffic data.

The **LIE**, a crucial east-west artery, provides direct access to numerous healthcare providers, including NewYork-Presbyterian Queens and Flushing Hospital Medical Center. The **Grand Central Parkway**, offering a more scenic route, connects to facilities like Long Island Jewish Medical Center, albeit with potential congestion near LaGuardia Airport. The **Van Wyck Expressway**, while often congested, offers a direct route to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and other medical centers south of Flushing. Navigating these highways, particularly during rush hour, requires patience and a keen awareness of traffic patterns.

Beyond the roadways, public transit plays a pivotal role in healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles. The New York City Transit system, with its extensive network of subway and bus routes, offers a viable alternative. The **7 train (IRT Flushing Line)**, a lifeline for Flushing residents, provides direct access to numerous medical facilities along its route, including NewYork-Presbyterian Queens and Elmhurst Hospital Center. The **7 train** is accessible via several stations within 11358, including Main Street-Flushing, Mets-Willets Point, and Flushing-Main Street.

Bus routes further enhance healthcare access, offering connectivity to areas not directly served by the subway. The **Q19, Q20A, Q20B, Q25, Q27, Q34, Q44, Q48, Q65, Q66, Q67, Q88, and Q90** bus lines crisscross the neighborhood, connecting residents to various hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. Many of these buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating areas, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Planning a healthcare visit using public transit requires careful consideration of route schedules and potential delays, but it offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

For those seeking a more personalized transportation experience, ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative. Uber and Lyft operate extensively throughout Flushing, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The convenience of these services, however, comes with a higher price tag, particularly during peak demand periods. While ride-sharing eliminates the complexities of navigating traffic or relying on public transit schedules, the cost factor remains a significant consideration.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like SeniorCare Transportation and Ambulnz offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for appointments and other healthcare needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers. While these services offer a valuable lifeline for those with specific needs, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than standard transportation options.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 11358 reflects a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. The availability of multiple transportation options, including highways, subway lines, bus routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, provides a degree of flexibility. However, the potential for traffic congestion, the variability of public transit schedules, and the cost of ride-sharing and specialized services introduce complexities.

For individuals considering **moving to Flushing**, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Proximity to public transit stations, the availability of reliable ride-sharing services, and the potential for medical transportation services are all factors to weigh. The **healthcare access** score, therefore, is not a simple metric but a multifaceted assessment that demands a nuanced understanding of individual needs and preferences.

The "Overall Health Score" for 11358 also highlights the importance of proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with available transportation options, anticipate potential delays, and consider the financial implications of each choice. Furthermore, individuals with specific healthcare needs should explore the availability of specialized medical transport services and ensure that their chosen healthcare providers are easily accessible via their preferred mode of **transportation**.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Flushing, NY (11358) reveals a community with a diverse range of transportation options. While the availability of highways, subway lines, bus routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provides a degree of accessibility, the complexities of traffic, public transit schedules, and cost considerations necessitate careful planning and informed decision-making. Prospective residents and current inhabitants alike must consider these factors to ensure they can access the healthcare services they need, contributing to their overall well-being in this dynamic Queens neighborhood.