11423, Hollis, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11423, Hollis, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.48 percent of residents in 11423 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Queens Hospital Center with a distance of 1.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 11423 (Hollis, Queens)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 11423 (Hollis, Queens), focusing on the critical factor of transportation to medical facilities. We delve into the complexities of commuting, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Hollis, as it directly impacts the ease and efficiency of obtaining necessary medical care.

Hollis, a vibrant neighborhood in Queens, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. While offering a diverse community and convenient amenities, its location and transportation infrastructure influence the ease with which residents can reach medical professionals. This analysis aims to paint a comprehensive picture, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many in Hollis. However, the notorious traffic congestion of New York City significantly impacts drive times to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries serving Hollis are the Grand Central Parkway and the Long Island Expressway (LIE). The LIE, a major east-west thoroughfare, can be particularly challenging during peak hours.

For example, a drive to Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, a highly regarded hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes without traffic. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, depending on the severity of traffic on the LIE. The Grand Central Parkway, offering a more scenic route, can also experience heavy congestion, especially near the exits leading to hospitals like Queens Hospital Center in Jamaica.

Smaller roads like Hillside Avenue and Jamaica Avenue provide alternative routes, but they are often plagued by stop-and-go traffic and limited parking availability near medical facilities. Residents must factor in these potential delays when planning medical appointments, especially those requiring urgent care or timely treatment.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Subway and Bus Systems**

New York City's public transit system offers a crucial alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid traffic. The New York City Transit Authority (NYCT) operates both subway and bus services throughout Hollis. The F train, running along Hillside Avenue, provides a direct subway connection to Manhattan and various medical centers along its route, including NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island City.

The Q4, Q2, and Q36 bus routes offer convenient connections to hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas. The Q2, for instance, travels along Jamaica Avenue, providing access to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and other medical facilities in the Jamaica area. The Q36 serves as a vital link to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), offering connections to hospitals further east on Long Island.

The NYCT strives to provide accessible transportation for all riders. Many subway stations and buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including elevators, ramps, and audio-visual announcements. However, the availability of these features can vary depending on the station or bus route, and some stations in Hollis may not be fully accessible. This is a significant consideration for individuals with mobility impairments or those traveling with assistive devices.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular options for transportation in New York City. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving and can be particularly useful for those who do not own a car or prefer not to navigate traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like Ambulnz and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services provide a valuable lifeline for those who cannot utilize public transit or drive themselves. However, these services often require prior booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The Overall Health Score for 11423, in terms of transportation to healthcare, is moderately impacted by several factors. While public transit offers a viable alternative to driving, it is not always the most convenient or time-efficient option, especially for those living further from subway stations or bus routes. Traffic congestion on major roadways can significantly delay drive times, impacting access to timely medical care.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides a convenient option, but cost remains a barrier for some residents. Medical transport services offer specialized assistance but are generally more expensive. The presence of ADA features on public transit is a positive aspect, but the inconsistency of their availability across all stations and routes remains a concern.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

When considering moving to Hollis, potential residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with the subway and bus routes serving the area and assess the accessibility of their preferred medical facilities. Individuals who prefer driving should factor in potential traffic delays and parking availability.

The Overall Health Score for transportation to healthcare in 11423 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a range of transportation options, each has its limitations. Understanding these complexities is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring the well-being of residents in this vibrant Queens community. The ability to efficiently and reliably access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of community health, and this analysis serves as a guide for navigating the transportation landscape in Hollis.