07012, Clifton, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07012, Clifton, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.37 percent of residents in 07012 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 1.32 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clifton, NJ (ZIP Code 07012)

Considering a move to Clifton, New Jersey (ZIP code 07012)? This assessment provides a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating the ease of access to breast cancer screening and treatment facilities, a critical factor in healthcare access. It considers the available transportation options – the arteries of this community – and their impact on timely and stress-free journeys. This score aims to offer a clear picture for those prioritizing healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a numerical grade, but a qualitative assessment. It reflects the convenience and efficiency of reaching essential medical services, particularly focusing on breast cancer care. We'll examine drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing options, painting a comprehensive picture of transportation realities in Clifton.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

Clifton, a vibrant city in Passaic County, benefits from a network of highways and local roads. The primary thoroughfare is the Garden State Parkway, offering north-south access. Route 46 and Route 3, major east-west arteries, are vital for navigating the region. These highways are often congested, especially during peak hours, which can significantly impact drive times to healthcare facilities.

For example, driving to St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, a major healthcare provider, from central Clifton via Route 46 can take approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. During rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 30-45 minutes. Similarly, a trip to Hackensack University Medical Center, a highly-regarded cancer center, might involve a drive of 20-35 minutes via the Garden State Parkway or Route 46.

Smaller local roads like Broad Street and Allwood Road provide alternative routes, but they often experience heavy traffic and numerous traffic lights, potentially increasing travel time. Parking availability at hospitals and medical centers is another factor to consider, as it can add to the overall time and stress of a healthcare visit.

**Public Transit: A Balancing Act:**

New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) offers bus services throughout Clifton, providing a public transportation alternative. Several bus routes, including the 190, 191, and 703, serve Clifton and connect to neighboring towns and cities, including those with major medical facilities.

The 190 bus, for instance, runs along Clifton's main thoroughfares, offering access to the Garden State Plaza and connections to other bus and rail lines. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, especially during peak hours. A bus trip to St. Joseph's University Medical Center might take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the route and traffic conditions.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, including ramps, lifts, and audio-visual announcements on many buses. However, the availability of accessible features can vary, and it's essential to confirm accessibility details for specific routes and buses before relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Clifton. They offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those who may not own a car or prefer not to drive. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it often provides a door-to-door service, reducing travel time and stress.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transportation, several companies operate in the Clifton area. These services cater to patients with mobility limitations or those needing assistance with medical appointments. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and can be a more expensive option than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Clifton (07012) is influenced by several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are variable, often impacted by traffic congestion on major highways and local roads. Public transit offers an alternative, but travel times can be lengthy, and accessibility needs to be carefully considered. Ride-sharing and medical transportation provide convenient options, but costs can be a barrier.

**Moving to Clifton: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For those considering moving to Clifton, understanding these transportation realities is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, ease of access via various transportation methods, and personal mobility needs should all be factored into the decision.

The availability of multiple transportation options enhances healthcare access in Clifton. While driving offers flexibility, public transit and ride-sharing provide viable alternatives. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not a simple pass or fail. It's a nuanced evaluation. It underscores the importance of planning, considering all available options, and understanding potential travel times when prioritizing healthcare access.

Clifton offers a range of healthcare options, but careful consideration of transportation is essential for ensuring timely and stress-free access to essential services, including breast cancer screening and treatment. The city's location, with its proximity to major highways and public transit, provides a solid foundation for healthcare access, but individual needs and preferences will ultimately determine the best transportation strategy.