07650, Palisades Park, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07650, Palisades Park, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.48 percent of residents in 07650 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Name Medical Center with a distance of 2.37 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Palisades Park (ZIP Code 07650)

Palisades Park, New Jersey, a vibrant borough in Bergen County, offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. However, for residents managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical consideration, especially concerning **transportation** options. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," evaluates the ease with which individuals in ZIP code 07650 can reach medical facilities, factoring in travel times, available modes of transport, and potential environmental exposures. This is particularly important for anyone **moving to Palisades Park**, as it directly impacts quality of life.

The primary concern for asthmatics is minimizing exposure to irritants during their journey to healthcare. This involves evaluating the efficiency and reliability of **transportation** options, as well as the potential for exacerbating symptoms due to traffic congestion, air quality, and the physical demands of travel. The "Asthma Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling informed decisions about healthcare access.

**Driving Directions and Time:**

Driving remains a popular mode of **transportation** in Palisades Park, offering direct control over the environment and schedule. However, it also presents challenges, including traffic delays and potential exposure to vehicle emissions.

For residents seeking immediate care, Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck is a significant resource. The journey typically involves navigating local roads like Broad Avenue and Sylvan Avenue, before merging onto the busy Route 4. During off-peak hours, the drive is approximately 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, especially westbound in the morning and eastbound in the evening, travel times can easily double, potentially exposing asthmatics to prolonged periods of vehicle exhaust. Route 4 is known for its heavy traffic, particularly near the George Washington Bridge.

Alternatively, Englewood Hospital and Medical Center is another crucial healthcare provider. Reaching this facility usually involves taking Sylvan Avenue, then either the Palisades Interstate Parkway or Route 9W. The Parkway offers a scenic route, but can experience congestion during peak hours. Route 9W, while offering more direct access, often faces heavy traffic. Travel time to Englewood Hospital ranges from 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For those requiring specialized care, the drive to Hackensack University Medical Center involves navigating local roads and potentially the Garden State Parkway. This journey can take between 20-35 minutes, dependent on traffic. The Garden State Parkway, while providing a faster route, can experience heavy congestion, especially during weekends and holidays.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public **transportation** offers an alternative to driving, potentially reducing exposure to air pollution and the stress of navigating traffic. However, it introduces its own set of considerations, including travel time, potential for exposure to allergens, and the availability of ADA-compliant features.

New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service throughout Bergen County, with several routes serving Palisades Park. The primary routes relevant to healthcare access include the 156, 158, and 171. The 156 route travels along Broad Avenue, connecting to various points in Bergen County, including Hackensack. The 158 route offers service to Fort Lee and other areas, while the 171 route provides access to the George Washington Bridge and New York City.

While these bus routes offer a cost-effective alternative, travel times can be significantly longer than driving, particularly during peak hours. The 156 bus ride to Hackensack, for example, can take up to an hour, depending on traffic. Furthermore, the cleanliness of buses and the potential for exposure to allergens, such as dust and mold, can be a concern for asthmatics.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. All NJ Transit buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the availability of these features can vary depending on the specific bus and route. It is advisable to check the NJ Transit website or app for real-time information on bus accessibility.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving and public **transportation**. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate bus stops or parking lots. However, the cost can be significantly higher than public **transportation**, and the availability of rides can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Furthermore, the cleanliness of ride-share vehicles and the potential for exposure to allergens remain a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by CareRide or First Transit, are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. While these services offer a reliable option for **healthcare access**, they can be expensive and require prior booking. The availability of these services in Palisades Park should be confirmed, as coverage can vary.

**Environmental Considerations:**

Air quality is a significant factor in asthma management. Palisades Park, like other urban areas, experiences varying levels of air pollution. Proximity to major roadways, such as Route 4 and the Palisades Interstate Parkway, can increase exposure to vehicle emissions. The "Asthma Score" must consider these factors when evaluating **transportation** options.

Furthermore, the seasonal variations in pollen counts and other allergens can impact asthma symptoms. The choice of **transportation** mode can influence exposure to these allergens. For example, open windows in a car or bus can increase exposure to pollen, while air conditioning can help mitigate this.

**Healthcare Access Assessment:**

The "Asthma Score" for Palisades Park (07650) reveals a mixed picture regarding **healthcare access**. While driving offers the most direct route, it is subject to traffic delays and environmental exposures. Public **transportation** provides a cost-effective alternative, but travel times are longer, and exposure to allergens and potential cleanliness issues are present. Ride-share services offer convenience, but at a higher cost. Medical **transportation** services provide specialized support, but their availability and cost should be verified.

For individuals **moving to Palisades Park** with asthma, a comprehensive assessment of their individual needs is crucial. This includes evaluating their ability to tolerate traffic, their sensitivity to allergens, and their financial resources. A combination of **transportation** options may be the most effective approach, with careful planning and consideration of environmental factors. Prioritizing healthcare facilities with efficient access routes is essential for optimal asthma management.