07656, Park Ridge, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07656, Park Ridge, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.47 percent of residents in 07656 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical with a distance of 3.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Park Ridge, NJ (ZIP Code 07656)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate attention and specialized care. For residents of Park Ridge, New Jersey (ZIP code 07656), the journey to healthcare access involves navigating a complex web of transportation options. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach essential breast cancer services, factoring in drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Park Ridge, ensuring they understand the practical realities of healthcare access within the community.

The core of the "Breast Cancer Score" lies in understanding the proximity and accessibility of key healthcare facilities. In the context of breast cancer care, this encompasses hospitals offering comprehensive oncology services, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, as well as specialized imaging centers for mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs. The primary healthcare hubs serving Park Ridge residents include Hackensack University Medical Center, Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, and Englewood Health.

For those who prefer the convenience of driving, the road network becomes paramount. From Park Ridge, the most direct route to Hackensack University Medical Center typically involves utilizing the Garden State Parkway, with an average drive time of approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, drivers can opt for local roads such as Kinderkamack Road and Ridgewood Avenue, which may offer a slightly shorter distance but often encounter more traffic signals and congestion, potentially extending the commute.

Reaching Valley Hospital in Ridgewood is usually a quicker journey, often taking between 15 and 25 minutes. This route primarily utilizes the Garden State Parkway, but drivers can also choose to travel via local roads like Pascack Road and Franklin Avenue. Englewood Health is also accessible by car, with drive times ranging from 30-45 minutes, again heavily influenced by traffic on the Garden State Parkway and local roads.

Public transportation provides an alternative for those who prefer not to drive. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) system offers bus routes that connect Park Ridge to various healthcare destinations. The primary routes serving the area include the 165 and 758 buses. The 165 bus provides service to the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal, which connects to other transportation options for further travel. The 758 bus travels to the Ridgewood train station, providing access to train lines that can reach New York City and other destinations.

However, relying solely on public transit for breast cancer care can present challenges. The frequency of bus service, particularly during off-peak hours, may be limited, potentially increasing travel times. Furthermore, individuals undergoing treatment may experience fatigue or mobility issues, making the physical demands of navigating bus routes and transfers more difficult. The ADA accessibility of these buses is an important factor to consider.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to drive or rely on fixed public transit schedules. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate based on demand, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. These services, often provided by companies like CareRide or MediRide, are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. They typically offer door-to-door service and may accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also incorporates the accessibility of imaging centers for early detection. Several imaging centers in the surrounding areas offer mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs. The ability to schedule appointments promptly and the availability of convenient parking are critical factors. The proximity of these centers to transportation hubs is also important, particularly for those who rely on public transit or ride-sharing services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just about distance; it is about the overall experience of accessing healthcare. Factors such as the availability of parking, the ease of navigating the healthcare facility, and the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, all contribute to the score. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Park Ridge, understanding the "Breast Cancer Score" is crucial. It allows them to assess the practicality of accessing breast cancer services and to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score should be a critical component of the decision-making process, particularly for those with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Park Ridge, NJ (ZIP code 07656) is a dynamic assessment. The score is influenced by factors such as traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing services. It is essential to regularly review the score and to stay informed about any changes that may affect healthcare access.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Park Ridge, NJ (ZIP code 07656) highlights the importance of considering transportation and healthcare access when evaluating the community. While the area offers a variety of transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. By understanding the complexities of healthcare access, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. This knowledge empowers individuals to navigate the healthcare system effectively and proactively manage their health, making Park Ridge a more supportive and accessible community for those seeking breast cancer care.