07011, Clifton, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07011, Clifton, New Jersey is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.39 percent of residents in 07011 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 1.27 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clifton, NJ (ZIP Code 07011)

Considering a move to Clifton, New Jersey (ZIP code 07011)? Beyond the charming neighborhoods and local amenities, a crucial factor in your decision should be healthcare access, particularly for women. This analysis provides a “Breast Cancer Score” for Clifton, evaluating transportation options to medical facilities specializing in breast cancer care. This score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of your commute to potentially life-saving treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a numerical grade but a narrative assessment. It aims to empower you with information, enabling informed decisions about your healthcare needs in relation to your location. The score will highlight the realities of transportation in Clifton, providing insights into the ease (or difficulty) of accessing specialized breast cancer care.

**Driving the Diagnosis: Navigating Clifton's Roads**

Clifton's road network is the backbone of its transportation infrastructure. The primary arteries are the Garden State Parkway and Route 46, providing swift access to regional medical centers. However, rush hour can transform these highways into parking lots, significantly impacting drive times. Smaller roads like Allwood Road and Broad Street offer alternative routes, but these can be congested, especially near shopping centers and schools.

For breast cancer patients, timely access to appointments and treatments is paramount. A typical drive from central Clifton to Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading cancer center, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey often involves navigating the Garden State Parkway south or Route 46 east, followed by local roads. The distance is approximately 10-15 miles.

Similarly, St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, another option, is a shorter drive, perhaps 15-30 minutes, primarily via Route 46 west and local roads. The proximity offers a potentially less stressful commute.

The drive to New York City hospitals, such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, is significantly longer. Expect travel times of 45 minutes to over an hour, especially during peak hours. This commute typically involves the Garden State Parkway south, the Lincoln Tunnel or the George Washington Bridge, and navigating the city's complex street system.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag for Healthcare Access**

Clifton's public transit options, while present, present challenges for consistent healthcare access. NJ Transit provides bus services, with several routes serving the area. The 190, 191, and 192 buses offer connections to New York City, while the 709 and 744 routes provide local service and connections to the train.

However, these bus routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. Transfers might be necessary, adding time and potential stress to the journey. The 709 bus, for example, offers access to some medical offices along Allwood Road, but it is not a direct route to major hospitals.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. NJ Transit is committed to providing accessible services. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and designated seating is available for passengers with disabilities. However, the reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather or peak hours, can be unpredictable.

For those relying on public transit, careful planning is essential. Researching specific bus routes, checking schedules, and allowing ample time for travel are vital. Consider the potential for delays and the impact on appointment times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Options and Considerations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Clifton. They offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, especially for those unable to drive or needing door-to-door service. However, the cost can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized assistance for patients with mobility issues or other needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assistance with medical equipment, and trained drivers. While convenient, they can be expensive and require pre-booking.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation can vary depending on the time of day and demand. It is wise to plan and book these services in advance, especially for critical appointments.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Considering the various transportation options, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Clifton, NJ (07011) leans towards the moderate side. While the area offers good access to major highways and ride-sharing services, public transit limitations and potential traffic congestion can impact healthcare access.

The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration when choosing a healthcare provider. Residents should factor in travel times, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for delays.

**Moving to Clifton: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

If you are considering moving to Clifton, especially if you have a history of breast cancer or are concerned about your healthcare access, it is crucial to prioritize this factor. Research the proximity of medical facilities, assess the ease of transportation to those facilities, and consider the potential impact of traffic and public transit limitations.

Before making a move, visit the hospitals and clinics you are considering, and test the commute during peak hours. This hands-on approach will provide a realistic understanding of your healthcare access.

Clifton offers many advantages, including a diverse community, access to amenities, and a convenient location. However, the Breast Cancer Score underscores the importance of carefully evaluating your healthcare needs in relation to the local transportation infrastructure. By making informed decisions, you can ensure that your healthcare needs are met, allowing you to thrive in your new community.

**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Decisions**

This analysis is not intended to discourage anyone from moving to Clifton. It is designed to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access, enabling you to make informed decisions. By understanding the transportation landscape, you can proactively address your healthcare needs and ensure a smooth transition to your new home. The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, is a tool for empowerment, allowing you to prioritize your health and well-being.