07022, Fairview, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07022, Fairview, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.33 percent of residents in 07022 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Palisades Medical Center with a distance of 1.45 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Fairview, NJ (ZIP Code 07022)**

Fairview, New Jersey, a charming borough nestled in Bergen County, presents a complex tapestry of transportation options when assessing access to healthcare, particularly for individuals navigating the challenges of breast cancer. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates the accessibility of essential medical services, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Fairview.

The score, focusing on transportation, directly impacts healthcare access. It is a crucial factor for those diagnosed with breast cancer, who often require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The ability to reach these appointments efficiently and with minimal stress significantly impacts their well-being and treatment outcomes.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Fairview, and the road network significantly shapes healthcare access. The George Washington Bridge, a vital artery, connects Fairview to New York City and its extensive medical resources. However, the bridge's notorious traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can dramatically inflate commute times.

From Fairview, the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) offers a high-speed route south, connecting to major hospitals in the region. The Palisades Interstate Parkway, a scenic route, provides access to hospitals north of Fairview, but its winding roads and potential for delays must be considered. Local roads like Bergen Boulevard, Anderson Avenue, and Broad Avenue are crucial for accessing nearby medical facilities, but they are often congested, adding to the commute time.

For instance, a drive to Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment center, can take between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The drive to Englewood Hospital, another prominent healthcare provider, typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes. These estimates assume optimal conditions; however, rush hour can extend these times considerably, impacting the patient's experience.

**Navigating Public Transit:**

Public transit offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of challenges. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service throughout the region, connecting Fairview to various healthcare destinations. Several bus routes serve Fairview, including the 156, 158, and 181, which provide connections to major hospitals and medical centers.

The 156 route, for example, travels along Bergen Boulevard, offering convenient access to local medical offices and connecting to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, where patients can access hospitals like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. The 158 route provides access to Englewood Hospital and other medical facilities. The 181 route offers connections to the George Washington Bridge and access to hospitals in New York City.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor for patients with mobility limitations. NJT strives to provide accessible services, but the availability of accessible routes and the reliability of service can vary. Transfers between buses can add to the travel time and complexity, particularly for those undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient, albeit potentially costly, alternative to driving or public transit. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate traffic or transfer between buses. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some patients, especially those requiring frequent appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients with mobility limitations or other needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Companies like CareRide and American Medical Response offer medical transportation in the area. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, which may not always be feasible for urgent appointments.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Fairview considers all these factors. It weighs the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. The score also considers the availability of ADA-accessible transportation and the cost of various transportation options.

The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by breast cancer patients in Fairview.

**Implications for Moving to Fairview:**

For individuals considering moving to Fairview, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable insights into healthcare access. It helps prospective residents assess the practicality of reaching medical appointments, considering their transportation needs and financial constraints.

The score also highlights the importance of planning. Before moving, potential residents should research the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the cost of various services. They should also consider their individual needs and preferences, such as their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their budget for transportation.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Journey:**

Fairview, while offering a desirable living environment, presents a mixed bag when it comes to transportation and healthcare access. The proximity to major hospitals is a significant advantage, but the traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer solutions, but their cost can be a barrier.

The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding these complexities. It empowers residents and prospective residents to make informed decisions about healthcare access. By considering the nuances of transportation options, individuals can navigate the healthcare journey with greater confidence and peace of mind. The score underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand access to affordable and reliable transportation services, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all residents, especially those battling breast cancer.