07621, Bergenfield, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07621, Bergenfield, New Jersey is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.17 percent of residents in 07621 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Englewood Hospital And Medical Center with a distance of 2.12 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bergenfield (07621)

The air in Bergenfield, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07621), holds a particular significance for those managing asthma. Proximity to healthcare, specifically the ease of accessing specialized care, becomes a critical factor in determining the quality of life. This "Asthma Score" assesses the transportation landscape, a crucial element in healthcare access, for residents and prospective movers. Understanding the available options, from driving times to public transit accessibility, is paramount in ensuring timely medical attention during an asthma episode. This analysis focuses on the practicalities of getting to vital healthcare resources, offering a comprehensive view of transportation challenges and opportunities within and around Bergenfield.

Bergenfield, a vibrant community, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. However, its location, nestled within the broader Bergen County, presents unique transportation considerations. The primary roadways shaping the commute to healthcare facilities are the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and Route 4. These arteries, while providing direct routes, can be subject to congestion, particularly during peak hours, impacting drive times and potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms triggered by stress or air pollution trapped in traffic.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents a mixed bag. Accessing Hackensack University Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, via the Garden State Parkway, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey to Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, often a preferred choice, also requires navigating the Parkway or Route 4, resulting in a similar drive time. However, the unpredictability of traffic, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend these times, adding to the stress and potentially delaying critical medical attention.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of challenges. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service throughout Bergen County, including routes that connect Bergenfield to hospitals and medical centers. The primary routes serving Bergenfield are the 167, 175, and 178 buses. These routes offer connections to major hospitals. However, the frequency of these buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial aspect of public transit. NJ Transit strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), offering accessible buses with ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of elevators and ramps at all bus stops is not always guaranteed, presenting a potential hurdle for some asthma patients, especially those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide on-demand transportation options. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or preferring not to navigate traffic. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for unscheduled doctor appointments or emergency situations. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and First Transit offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, which can be invaluable for asthma patients with mobility issues or those requiring extra support. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have limited availability, particularly for urgent needs.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. Traffic congestion and unreliable public transit can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress levels. For asthma patients, these factors can contribute to worsening symptoms and potentially trigger asthma attacks. The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is crucial for managing the condition effectively.

Moving to Bergenfield, or any location, requires a thorough assessment of its transportation infrastructure. Prospective residents with asthma should prioritize locations with easy access to healthcare facilities, considering the reliability and convenience of all transportation options. This "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of this assessment, emphasizing the need to factor in drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Bergenfield is nuanced. While the proximity to major hospitals is a significant advantage, the reliance on roadways prone to congestion and the limitations of public transit present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers additional options, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Bergenfield, a careful evaluation of their individual needs and preferences is essential. Factors to consider include their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their financial resources for ride-sharing or medical transportation. Researching the specific routes and services available to their preferred healthcare providers is also crucial.

In conclusion, while Bergenfield offers good healthcare access, especially when compared to more rural areas, the transportation landscape demands careful consideration for individuals with asthma. The "Asthma Score" emphasizes the need for a comprehensive assessment of all transportation options, ensuring that residents can access timely and effective medical care, thereby contributing to a better quality of life. Understanding the intricacies of drive times, public transit routes, and alternative transportation services is vital for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being within the community.