07675, Westwood, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07675, Westwood, New Jersey is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.28 percent of residents in 07675 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical with a distance of 1.44 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Westwood, NJ (ZIP Code 07675)

Westwood, New Jersey, a charming Bergen County borough, offers a desirable suburban lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the ease of **healthcare access** is a critical factor. This write-up explores the **transportation** landscape within and around ZIP code 07675, providing an "Asthma Score" assessment to aid those considering a move, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for those with respiratory conditions.

The "Asthma Score" considers factors like drive times to medical facilities, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. It aims to provide a realistic picture of **healthcare access** to empower informed decisions. This assessment is not a definitive medical recommendation; consult with your physician for personalized advice.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of Westwood, the car is often the primary mode of **transportation**, particularly for medical appointments. The proximity to major roadways significantly impacts **healthcare access**.

The Garden State Parkway, a vital north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to hospitals in Hackensack and Ridgewood. However, during peak hours, congestion can dramatically increase drive times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to stress and exposure to vehicle emissions. Expect a 20-30 minute drive to Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) via the Parkway, though this can easily double during rush hour.

Route 17, another critical thoroughfare, offers direct access to several medical practices and urgent care facilities. While convenient, Route 17 is notoriously busy. Navigating this route, especially during morning and evening commutes, requires patience. The drive to Valley Hospital in Ridgewood via Route 17 is typically 15-25 minutes, but again, traffic can extend this significantly.

Local roads, like Kinderkamack Road and Pascack Road, provide access to smaller medical offices and pharmacies within Westwood and neighboring towns. These roads offer a more relaxed driving experience, but their reliance on traffic signals can still contribute to travel time.

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

For those who prefer or require public **transportation**, the New Jersey Transit (NJT) offers bus and rail services. This is a vital component of **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive.

The Pascack Valley Line, a NJT commuter rail line, has a station in Westwood. This line provides direct access to New York City, but it also offers connections to hospitals in the New York metropolitan area, including those in Manhattan. The rail option is generally more reliable than driving, especially during peak hours. However, access to the train station, and the walk to and from the station, can be challenging for some with asthma, particularly in inclement weather.

NJT bus routes also serve Westwood. The primary routes include the 165 and 162, connecting Westwood to Hackensack, Paramus, and other surrounding towns. These buses offer access to various medical facilities along their routes. While convenient, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, and delays are not uncommon.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with asthma. NJT is committed to providing accessible services, including wheelchair lifts on buses and accessible stations. However, the reliability of these features and the potential for delays can still be a concern.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Assistance**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Westwood. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit for medical appointments. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for those who are unable to drive due to their asthma or other health conditions. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services offer specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including but not limited to:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** A national provider offering a range of medical transportation services.
* **CareRide:** A local provider specializing in non-emergency medical transportation.
* **MedTrans:** Another local option offering transport to and from medical appointments.

These services can be invaluable for individuals with severe asthma who require specialized care or assistance. However, it is crucial to research the specific services offered by each company and to understand the associated costs.

**Asthma Score Considerations for Westwood (07675)**

Westwood offers a mixed bag regarding **healthcare access** for asthma sufferers. The proximity to major roadways provides relatively quick access to hospitals and medical facilities, but traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. Public transit options are available, but travel times can be longer, and ADA accessibility, while improving, still presents potential challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient alternatives, but the cost can be a barrier.

**Moving to Westwood** requires careful consideration of these factors. Assess your individual needs, including the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of your asthma, and your preferred mode of **transportation**. Consider the potential impact of traffic, weather, and other environmental factors on your respiratory health.

The "Asthma Score" for Westwood, therefore, is nuanced. It is not a simple "good" or "bad." It is a complex evaluation, dependent on the individual's specific needs and circumstances. Residents must weigh the benefits of suburban living against the potential challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**.

**Recommendations for Westwood Residents with Asthma:**

* **Plan your routes:** Utilize real-time traffic apps and consider alternative routes to minimize exposure to congestion.
* **Explore public transit options:** Familiarize yourself with NJT bus and rail schedules and routes.
* **Investigate ride-sharing and medical transport services:** Research available providers and compare costs and services.
* **Establish a relationship with local medical providers:** Find doctors and specialists within Westwood or nearby towns to minimize travel time.
* **Consider air quality:** Monitor local air quality reports and adjust outdoor activities accordingly.
* **Advocate for improvements:** Support initiatives to improve public transit and reduce traffic congestion in the area.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively planning for **healthcare access**, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the **transportation** landscape in Westwood and make informed decisions about their health and well-being. This information can be a crucial asset for those **moving to Westwood**, helping them prioritize their health needs within the context of their new community.