07660, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07660, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.99 percent of residents in 07660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Name Medical Center with a distance of 2.00 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ridgefield Park (07660)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires readily available and reliable **transportation**, a crucial element in the equation of **healthcare access**. For residents of Ridgefield Park, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07660), understanding the ease of reaching essential medical services is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**, offering insights for those considering **moving to Ridgefield Park**.

Ridgefield Park, a charming Bergen County community, sits in a strategically advantageous location, offering a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban centers. However, the accessibility of specialized medical care, especially for breast cancer treatment, hinges on the efficiency of the **transportation** network. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the journey to potentially life-saving care.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for navigating the area are the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), the Garden State Parkway, and Route 46. The Turnpike, though often congested, offers the fastest route south towards major hospitals in Newark and New Brunswick. The Garden State Parkway, with its scenic routes, provides an alternative, though it may be slower during peak hours. Route 46, a bustling commercial corridor, offers access to various medical facilities, but traffic can be a significant impediment.

For residents of 07660, the drive time to Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment facility, typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is a crucial factor, as prompt access to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care is essential. Driving west towards Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, another prominent institution, usually takes a similar amount of time, offering patients a choice of medical providers.

Further afield, the drive to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, a world-renowned facility, can be challenging. Depending on traffic, the journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, particularly during rush hour. This extended travel time underscores the importance of considering **transportation** reliability when planning for appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public transit presents an alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or seeking to avoid traffic congestion. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service throughout the region, with several routes serving Ridgefield Park. The 165 and 166 bus routes, for instance, offer direct connections to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, where patients can then access various medical facilities.

The 167 bus route offers convenient access to Hackensack University Medical Center, a vital connection for cancer patients. While NJ Transit buses are generally accessible, it is important to note that not all stops have ADA-compliant features. Passengers with mobility impairments should verify accessibility at specific bus stops and plan accordingly.

The frequency of bus service is a key consideration. During peak hours, buses typically run more frequently, but service may be less frequent during off-peak times and on weekends. This can impact the ability to reach appointments on time and can influence the overall **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent, offering on-demand **transportation** options. Their availability in Ridgefield Park is generally good, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer a crucial service. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for patients undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to drive. The cost of these services varies, and it is essential to check with insurance providers for coverage details.

**The Breast Cancer Score and Considerations:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Ridgefield Park, considering the elements discussed, is favorable, reflecting a reasonable level of **healthcare access**. The proximity to multiple hospitals and cancer centers, combined with various **transportation** options, provides patients with choices and flexibility. However, several factors warrant careful consideration.

Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times. Reliance on public transit requires careful planning and awareness of bus schedules and ADA accessibility. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a financial burden.

For those considering **moving to Ridgefield Park**, it is vital to assess individual **transportation** needs and preferences. Patients who can drive and have access to a car will likely find it easier to reach medical appointments. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with bus routes and schedules. Patients with mobility limitations should explore medical transport services and understand their insurance coverage.

The availability of support networks, such as family and friends, can also play a crucial role in ensuring **healthcare access**. Having someone to assist with **transportation** or provide emotional support can make a significant difference during treatment.

**Conclusion:**

Ridgefield Park offers a relatively strong position regarding **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients. The combination of convenient drive times, accessible public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services contributes to a positive "Breast Cancer Score." However, the challenges of traffic congestion, the cost of **transportation**, and the importance of planning for individual needs must be considered. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents of 07660 can make informed decisions and ensure they have the support they need to navigate their journey to potentially life-saving care.