07063, Plainfield, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07063, Plainfield, New Jersey is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.08 percent of residents in 07063 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jfk Medical Center with a distance of 5.85 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Plainfield (07063)

The air hangs heavy with potential triggers for those managing asthma, and the ability to swiftly and reliably reach healthcare is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes transportation options in Plainfield, New Jersey (ZIP code 07063), providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access for prospective residents. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for those considering moving to Plainfield, a community with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities.

Plainfield, a city steeped in history and diversity, presents a complex transportation landscape. Proximity to New York City and major roadways offers advantages, but also contributes to potential air quality concerns. The evaluation of healthcare access is critical for individuals with asthma, as timely medical intervention can significantly impact their quality of life. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is essential for making informed decisions about where to live and how to manage healthcare needs.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Matter of Minutes and Miles**

For many, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. Within Plainfield, several healthcare facilities cater to residents' needs. Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) at Plainfield, located at 1201 West 9th Street, is a primary destination. The drive to RWJUH from various parts of the city is generally manageable. From the north side, accessing the hospital via West 9th Street might take 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. From the south, the journey could be slightly longer, potentially 10-15 minutes, navigating through local streets.

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and around Plainfield are the major roadways, including the Garden State Parkway, Interstate 78, and Route 22. The Garden State Parkway, while offering a swift north-south route, often experiences congestion, especially during peak hours. I-78 provides a crucial east-west connection, but rush-hour traffic can significantly impact travel times. Route 22, a major commercial corridor, offers access to healthcare facilities but can be heavily congested.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides crucial public transportation options. The Plainfield train station, served by the Raritan Valley Line, offers direct access to Newark Penn Station and New York Penn Station, enabling access to a broader range of healthcare facilities in the metropolitan area. The train ride to Newark Penn Station is approximately 30-45 minutes, providing connections to other rail lines and light rail systems.

NJ Transit bus routes crisscross Plainfield, offering local transportation. Several routes, including the 113, 114, and 117, serve key areas of the city, providing access to healthcare facilities. The 113 route, for instance, connects Plainfield to Newark, offering connections to various hospitals and medical centers. The 114 and 117 routes provide local service, connecting residential areas to healthcare providers.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating on buses and trains. However, accessibility can vary, and it's crucial to confirm specific features for each route and station. Individuals with mobility limitations should contact NJ Transit in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives to traditional transportation. These services can be readily available in Plainfield, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or periods of high demand.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have difficulty using public transit.

**Assessing the Asthma Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Asthma Score" for Plainfield, considering transportation options, reveals a mixed picture. The presence of multiple transportation modalities, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, enhances healthcare access. However, the potential for traffic congestion, particularly on major roadways, can impact drive times. Air quality concerns, a critical factor for asthma sufferers, must also be considered.

The availability of NJ Transit's rail and bus services provides a reliable alternative to driving, especially for accessing healthcare facilities in Newark and New York City. ADA accessibility features on NJ Transit vehicles are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer supplemental solutions for those who require them.

**Making Informed Decisions: Moving to Plainfield**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Plainfield, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. Proximity to healthcare facilities, accessibility of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be carefully evaluated. Consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and air quality on your daily commute.

Living in Plainfield, while presenting certain challenges, offers numerous advantages, including a diverse community, access to employment opportunities, and proximity to major metropolitan areas. By understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose a location that supports their well-being. This comprehensive analysis provides a foundation for navigating the complexities of healthcare access in Plainfield, empowering residents to prioritize their health and quality of life.