11369, East Elmhurst, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11369, East Elmhurst, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.41 percent of residents in 11369 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elmhurst Hospital Center with a distance of 1.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in East Elmhurst (ZIP Code 11369)

This report provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility within the East Elmhurst ZIP code 11369, focusing on the critical element of transportation. We evaluate the various modes available, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to determine an overall health score, reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to East Elmhurst, as understanding the nuances of transportation directly impacts healthcare access and, consequently, overall well-being.

East Elmhurst, a vibrant and diverse Queens neighborhood, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its proximity to major roadways and its connection to the New York City public transit system offer both advantages and challenges when considering healthcare access. The overall health score is influenced by factors like travel time, cost, convenience, and the availability of accessible options for individuals with disabilities.

**Private Vehicle Transportation:**

For residents owning a private vehicle, navigating to healthcare facilities involves utilizing key roadways. The Grand Central Parkway, a major east-west artery, provides direct access to hospitals and medical centers in neighboring areas like Long Island City and Astoria. The Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE), though often congested, offers another route, connecting East Elmhurst to Brooklyn and its extensive healthcare infrastructure. The nearby Long Island Expressway (LIE) provides access to hospitals further east on Long Island.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. Peak hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can lead to substantial delays, potentially impacting the timely arrival at medical appointments or emergency situations. Parking availability at healthcare facilities also poses a challenge, especially in areas with high patient volumes. While private vehicles offer flexibility and direct routes, the unpredictable nature of traffic and parking limitations can negatively affect the overall health score.

**Public Transportation:**

The New York City public transit system provides a crucial alternative for residents without private vehicles. The primary subway line serving East Elmhurst is the 7 train, with stations along Roosevelt Avenue. This line offers direct access to Manhattan and connections to other subway lines, facilitating travel to a wide range of hospitals and medical facilities throughout the city. The Q72 bus provides service along 25th Avenue, connecting to the 7 train and other bus routes.

Accessibility features on the subway and bus lines are critical. The MetroMetropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has been steadily implementing improvements to enhance accessibility, including elevators and ramps at subway stations and accessible buses. However, not all stations are fully accessible, and the availability of working elevators can be inconsistent, presenting challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The reliability of the subway and bus service is also a factor, as delays and service disruptions can impact travel times and appointment schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option for door-to-door transportation to healthcare facilities. These services provide flexibility and can be particularly useful for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as AMR and other specialized providers, cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with mobility. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs. While these services provide a crucial lifeline for those with disabilities, they can be more expensive than other options and may require advance booking.

**Detailed Analysis and Health Score Calculation:**

To calculate the overall health score, we consider the following factors: average travel time to the nearest hospital or clinic via each mode of transportation, cost of each mode, accessibility features for individuals with disabilities, frequency and reliability of service, and the availability of specialized medical transport.

The 7 train offers a relatively affordable and efficient option, particularly for travel to Manhattan. However, the accessibility limitations at some stations and the potential for delays can negatively impact the score. The Q72 bus provides additional connectivity but may add to travel times.

Ride-sharing services offer convenience but are subject to variable pricing and traffic conditions. Medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with disabilities but come with a higher cost. Private vehicles offer flexibility but are subject to traffic congestion and parking challenges.

The overall health score for healthcare access in East Elmhurst, considering these factors, is moderately positive. While the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services provides reasonable options, the potential for delays, accessibility limitations, and the cost of some services can create challenges. The score reflects a need for continued investment in public transit infrastructure, improved accessibility features, and the promotion of affordable transportation options for all residents, especially those considering moving to East Elmhurst.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are crucial. The MTA should continue its efforts to enhance accessibility at all subway stations serving East Elmhurst. Increased frequency and reliability of subway and bus service are essential. Promoting affordable ride-sharing options for medical appointments and expanding the availability of subsidized medical transport services would significantly benefit residents.

Furthermore, clear and accessible information regarding transportation options, including real-time updates on service disruptions and accessibility features, should be readily available to all residents. This includes providing information in multiple languages to cater to the diverse population of East Elmhurst.

Finally, the development of additional healthcare facilities within the neighborhood would reduce travel times and improve healthcare access for all residents. This would make East Elmhurst an even more attractive location for those considering moving to the area, knowing they can easily reach the care they need.