11418, Richmond Hill, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11418, Richmond Hill, New York is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.48 percent of residents in 11418 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with a distance of 0.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11418 (Richmond Hill, NY)

Welcome to Richmond Hill, a vibrant Queens neighborhood, and a detailed assessment of its healthcare accessibility. Understanding how easily residents can reach medical services is crucial for overall well-being. This report will analyze the transportation options available in ZIP code 11418, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on commute times, available modes, and the ease of accessing essential healthcare. This is a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Richmond Hill**.

The **Overall Health Score** for ZIP code 11418 is calculated considering various factors. These include the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of **transportation** options, and the availability of services for individuals with disabilities. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching doctors' offices, hospitals, pharmacies, and other vital healthcare providers. We'll delve into the specifics of driving times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, navigating to healthcare appointments in and around Richmond Hill presents a varied experience. The main thoroughfares, including the **Van Wyck Expressway (I-678)**, the **Jackie Robinson Parkway**, and **Atlantic Avenue**, are crucial arteries. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Heading east on the **Jackie Robinson Parkway** offers relatively swift access to facilities in Forest Hills and Kew Gardens, such as NewYork-Presbyterian Queens. The drive, when traffic flows smoothly, might take around 15-20 minutes. Westbound, the **Jackie Robinson Parkway** connects to the **Van Wyck Expressway (I-678)**, leading to hospitals in Jamaica and further afield. Be prepared for potential delays, particularly near the **Grand Central Parkway** interchange.

Navigating local streets, such as **Jamaica Avenue** and **Metropolitan Avenue**, can be challenging. These roads are often congested with local traffic and commercial vehicles. Expect drive times to local urgent care centers and primary care physicians to fluctuate between 10 and 25 minutes, depending on the time of day and the specific location. Parking availability at medical facilities can also be a concern, adding to the overall travel time and stress.

**Public Transportation: A Vital Link:**

Public **transportation** plays a critical role in healthcare access for many Richmond Hill residents. The New York City **Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)** offers several subway and bus routes that serve the area. The **E, F, J, and Z subway lines** are the primary subway options. The **E and F trains** provide relatively direct access to hospitals in Manhattan, such as Mount Sinai and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, with travel times varying between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on the destination and transfer points.

The **J and Z trains** offer service to hospitals in Brooklyn, like Maimonides Medical Center, with travel times around 30-45 minutes. The proximity of the subway stations, such as the **Jamaica-Van Wyck station** and the **Jamaica Center-Parsons/Archer station**, facilitates easy access to these lines.

Bus routes are another essential component of the public transit network. The **Q10, Q24, Q41, and Q56 buses** serve the Richmond Hill area, connecting residents to various healthcare providers and subway stations. The **Q10** provides access to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, while the **Q24** connects to facilities along **Jamaica Avenue**. Bus travel times are typically longer than subway travel times, often ranging from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The MTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Many subway stations and bus routes now offer ADA-compliant features, including elevators, ramps, and accessible buses. However, accessibility can still be a concern, especially in older subway stations. Checking the MTA's website for specific station accessibility information is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. These services provide door-to-door service, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility issues or those who live far from public transit options. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents.

Specialized medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Services offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often provide door-to-door service and can be booked in advance. The availability and cost of these services should be considered when assessing healthcare accessibility.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, the **Overall Health Score** for ZIP code 11418 is considered to be moderately good. Residents have a range of options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation**. However, several factors can impact healthcare access.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly increase drive times. Public transit, while extensive, can be subject to delays and may require multiple transfers. The cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** can be a financial burden for some. Accessibility concerns remain for individuals with disabilities, especially in older subway stations.

For individuals **moving to Richmond Hill**, understanding these nuances is critical. Consider your personal **transportation** needs, budget, and any mobility limitations when evaluating healthcare accessibility. Research the locations of healthcare providers and assess the feasibility of reaching them using the available **transportation** options.

The **Overall Health Score** is a dynamic metric. Improvements in public transit, increased availability of accessible services, and reduced traffic congestion can all contribute to enhancing healthcare access for Richmond Hill residents. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that all residents can easily and affordably reach the healthcare they need.