07026, Garfield, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07026, Garfield, New Jersey is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.36 percent of residents in 07026 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 2.12 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Garfield, NJ (ZIP Code 07026)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible and reliable transportation, a crucial factor influencing treatment adherence and overall well-being. This analysis explores the transportation landscape for residents of Garfield, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07026), focusing on breast cancer care access, and providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to assess the ease of navigating this critical journey.

Garfield, a vibrant community nestled in Bergen County, offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. However, its location and transportation infrastructure significantly impact healthcare access, especially for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding these complexities is paramount for residents, potential newcomers considering moving to Garfield, and healthcare providers aiming to optimize patient care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers several factors: drive times to key healthcare facilities, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Each element contributes to a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within and around Garfield.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. Garfield residents benefit from relatively easy access to major roadways, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides a direct route to several hospitals and cancer centers. Traveling south, patients can reach Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment facility, within approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading north, the Parkway offers access to hospitals in Passaic and Bergen County.

Route 80, a crucial east-west highway, provides access to hospitals in the New York City area. However, this route is notorious for heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. A trip to a Manhattan hospital could take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, making it essential to factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments.

Local roads, such as Passaic Street and River Drive, offer alternative routes, but these can be congested, especially near the Garfield train station and during school drop-off and pick-up times. Careful planning and awareness of traffic patterns are vital for efficient travel.

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

Public transportation provides an essential alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) offers both bus and train services, connecting Garfield to various healthcare destinations.

The NJ Transit Main Line train provides service to New York City, where numerous hospitals and cancer centers are located. The Garfield train station is centrally located, making it accessible to many residents. However, train schedules and potential delays can impact appointment adherence, so careful planning is crucial.

NJ Transit bus routes offer more localized transportation. The 709 bus provides service to Hackensack, connecting to the Hackensack University Medical Center. Other bus routes, such as the 161, 163, and 758, offer connections to surrounding towns and cities, providing access to additional healthcare facilities.

Accessibility is a critical consideration. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant buses and trains. However, it's essential to verify the specific accessibility features of each route and station before travel.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option, particularly for those unable to drive or utilize public transportation. These services are readily available in Garfield, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport providers operate in the Garfield area, including:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** A national provider offering non-emergency medical transportation.
* **CareRide:** A local provider specializing in medical transportation services.
* **First Transit:** Another national provider with a presence in the region.

These services offer a valuable resource for patients facing physical challenges or requiring assistance. However, it's essential to research and compare costs and services to find the most suitable option.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Garfield, NJ (07026) is a dynamic assessment, recognizing that transportation needs vary based on individual circumstances.

* **Drive Times:** The proximity to major roadways and hospitals offers a moderate advantage. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability of NJ Transit train and bus services provides a valuable alternative for those without personal vehicles. However, schedule limitations and potential delays must be considered.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Uber and Lyft provide convenient options, but the cost can be a barrier.
* **Medical Transport:** Specialized services offer essential support for patients with mobility limitations, but careful research is necessary to find the right provider.

**Overall, the Breast Cancer Score for Garfield is moderately favorable.** Residents have access to a range of transportation options, but careful planning and consideration of individual needs are crucial for navigating the journey to healthcare. The score emphasizes the importance of:

* **Proactive Planning:** Scheduling appointments strategically, considering traffic patterns, and exploring various transportation options.
* **Resourcefulness:** Utilizing online resources, such as Google Maps and NJ Transit's website, to plan trips effectively.
* **Advocacy:** Communicating transportation needs to healthcare providers and exploring available resources, such as patient assistance programs.

**Moving to Garfield: A Consideration**

For those considering moving to Garfield, understanding the transportation landscape is a crucial factor. While the area offers a good balance of convenience and accessibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion should be considered. Access to public transportation and ride-sharing services provides valuable alternatives.

**Conclusion: Empowering the Journey**

Navigating the healthcare system, particularly during a breast cancer diagnosis, is a challenging journey. Understanding the transportation options available in Garfield, NJ (07026), is a crucial step in empowering patients to access the care they need. By considering drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, residents can make informed decisions and navigate the journey with greater confidence and ease. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that transportation is not just a logistical issue; it's an integral part of the healthcare experience, impacting treatment adherence, patient well-being, and overall quality of life.