07057, Wallington, New Jersey Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 07057, Wallington, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.41 percent of residents in 07057 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 1.65 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wallington, NJ (ZIP Code 07057)

Wallington, New Jersey, a borough nestled in Bergen County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the bustling New York metropolitan area. For individuals considering a move to this community, particularly those managing arthritis, understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" write-up will delve into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 07057, assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities for residents, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, allowing potential residents to gauge the practicality of accessing necessary medical care, thereby informing their decision about moving to Wallington.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Wallington, and indeed much of Bergen County, is the automobile. While the borough itself is relatively compact, the locations of specialized medical facilities, such as rheumatology clinics and orthopedic centers, are often outside its borders. Driving, therefore, becomes a primary mode of **transportation** for many.

Navigating the roads around Wallington requires familiarity with a network of highways and local thoroughfares. The most significant artery is the Garden State Parkway, a major north-south route. Access to the Parkway is readily available via exits in neighboring towns, such as Rutherford and East Rutherford. Driving south on the Parkway provides access to hospitals and medical centers in areas like Hackensack and Paramus, while heading north leads to facilities in Passaic and beyond.

Another crucial highway is Route 17, a major commercial corridor running parallel to the Parkway. Route 17 offers direct access to various medical offices and hospitals, including those in Hackensack and Paramus. However, this route is often congested, particularly during peak hours, potentially impacting **healthcare access** for those with mobility limitations.

Local roads, such as Paterson Avenue and Valley Brook Avenue, provide access to local medical practices and pharmacies within Wallington and surrounding towns. These roads, while generally less congested than the highways, can still experience delays, particularly during rush hour. The condition of these roads, including the presence of potholes and uneven surfaces, can also pose challenges for individuals with arthritis.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from Wallington can vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to Hackensack University Medical Center, a major hospital, could take approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic on the Garden State Parkway or Route 17. Similarly, a visit to a rheumatology clinic in Paramus might require a 20-30 minute drive. Local doctor's offices within Wallington are typically accessible within a 5-10 minute drive. These estimations highlight the importance of factoring in travel time when scheduling appointments, especially for those experiencing pain and stiffness.

Beyond driving, public **transportation** offers an alternative for accessing healthcare. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service to and from Wallington. Several bus routes serve the borough, including the 161 (to/from New York City), 163 (to/from Ridgewood), and 709 (local service). These routes connect Wallington to major hubs like the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City and various towns in Bergen County.

The accessibility of these bus routes for individuals with arthritis is a critical consideration. NJT buses are equipped with features designed to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and priority seating. However, the availability of these features on all buses and the potential for crowded conditions, especially during peak hours, can present challenges. The distance from bus stops to medical facilities and the presence of uneven sidewalks or obstacles along the route are also factors to consider.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on the buses is crucial for **healthcare access**. Confirming the specific routes and schedules of buses equipped with these features is essential for planning trips.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option. These services provide on-demand rides, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Additionally, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and location.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, represent a specialized option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of the vehicle. Several medical **transportation** brands operate in the Bergen County area, offering various levels of service and pricing.

Evaluating the "Arthritis Score" for Wallington involves considering the combined impact of all these factors. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of various **transportation** options, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with arthritis are all crucial elements.

When considering **moving to Wallington**, prospective residents should research the specific healthcare providers they anticipate needing and then evaluate the practicality of accessing those providers using the available **transportation** options. This includes assessing drive times, investigating public transit routes, and exploring ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

In conclusion, while Wallington offers a relatively convenient location with access to major highways and public **transportation**, the practicalities of accessing healthcare for individuals with arthritis require careful consideration. The availability of specialized medical facilities outside the borough necessitates reliance on driving, public transit, ride-sharing, or medical **transportation** services. Understanding the nuances of each of these options, including drive times, route accessibility, and cost, is vital for making an informed decision about **healthcare access** and the suitability of Wallington as a place to live.