11426, Bellerose, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 11426, Bellerose, New York is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.61 percent of residents in 11426 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Creedmoor Psychiatric Center with a distance of 0.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bellerose (ZIP Code 11426)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Bellerose, New York (ZIP code 11426), necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This includes evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, a critical factor influencing health outcomes. The analysis delves into various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed picture for those considering moving to Bellerose and its surrounding areas.

Bellerose, a charming residential community nestled in the heart of Queens, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. While the area boasts a generally healthy population, the availability and accessibility of medical services are essential for maintaining this positive trend. The overall health score is therefore significantly influenced by the ease with which residents can reach doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

For residents of Bellerose who prefer the convenience of personal vehicles, navigating the roadways to healthcare facilities is a primary consideration. The primary arteries for transportation are the Cross Island Parkway, the Grand Central Parkway, and the Long Island Expressway (LIE). These highways, while providing efficient routes, can also be subject to heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.

Heading west on the Grand Central Parkway offers relatively direct access to several hospitals in the Queens area, including Long Island Jewish Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian Queens. The commute, however, can be significantly impacted by rush-hour congestion. Similarly, traveling east on the LIE provides access to hospitals in Nassau County, such as North Shore University Hospital, but this route also experiences heavy traffic, particularly during weekday commutes.

Navigating local roads, such as Hillside Avenue and Jamaica Avenue, provides alternative routes, though these are often slower due to traffic lights and local congestion. The drive times, therefore, are highly variable, depending on the time of day and the destination. The average drive time to a major hospital within a 5-mile radius is estimated to be between 15 and 30 minutes, but this can easily double during peak traffic.

**Public Transit Pathways: A Network of Healthcare Connections**

For those who rely on public transit, the New York City Transit system offers several options for accessing healthcare. The primary bus routes serving Bellerose include the Q46, Q36, and Q2. These buses connect Bellerose to major transit hubs, such as the Jamaica Center-Parsons/Archer subway station, where connections to the subway system (E, J, and Z trains) are readily available.

The Q46, in particular, provides direct access to Long Island Jewish Medical Center, a major healthcare provider. The Q36 and Q2 routes offer connections to other healthcare facilities along their routes. However, the frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor. The average wait time for a bus can range from 10 to 20 minutes, potentially adding significant time to the overall commute.

The subway system, while offering a more rapid transit option, requires transfers from bus routes, adding to the overall travel time. The E train, for instance, provides access to hospitals in Manhattan, but the commute can be lengthy. The subway stations in the area are generally ADA-accessible, offering elevators and ramps for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of elevators and ramps at all stations is not always guaranteed, and the reliability of the system can sometimes be a concern.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to drive or navigate public transit schedules. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, especially during peak hours.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and MedRide, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring safe and comfortable transportation to healthcare appointments. The cost of medical transport services is typically higher than ride-sharing or public transit, but they provide a crucial service for those who require it.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The overall health score for Bellerose residents concerning healthcare access is a complex calculation. The accessibility of healthcare facilities is a critical factor, but it is not the only one. The quality of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and the cost of healthcare are also essential considerations.

The drive-time dynamics, public transit pathways, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services all play a crucial role in shaping the overall health score. While Bellerose offers a relatively convenient location with access to major highways and public transit, the variability in drive times, the frequency of bus service, and the cost of ride-sharing services can all impact the ease with which residents can access healthcare.

For those considering moving to Bellerose, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The availability of healthcare facilities, the proximity to major hospitals, and the ease of access via various transportation modes should all be carefully considered.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

In conclusion, the overall health score for Bellerose residents concerning healthcare access is moderately favorable. While the area benefits from its proximity to major highways and public transit, the challenges of traffic congestion, bus frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing services can impact the ease with which residents can access healthcare. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. For those moving to Bellerose, a careful consideration of their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential to ensure optimal healthcare access and maintain a high quality of life. The overall health score highlights the critical interplay between transportation and healthcare access, shaping the health and well-being of the Bellerose community.