07452, Glen Rock, New Jersey COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 07452, Glen Rock, New Jersey is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.60 percent of residents in 07452 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Valley Hospital with a distance of 2.00 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glen Rock (07452)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within ZIP code 07452 (Glen Rock, New Jersey), providing a "COPD Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. This score considers various transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, crucial for evaluating healthcare access and informing decisions about moving to Glen Rock.

Glen Rock, a charming suburban community, offers a relatively manageable geographical footprint, but proximity to healthcare is not always synonymous with ease of access, especially for those with respiratory limitations. The COPD Score aims to quantify the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the transportation infrastructure, providing a clearer picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The cornerstone of transportation in Glen Rock, as in most of suburban America, is the private vehicle. For residents with COPD, this offers the most control over their journey, enabling them to manage their comfort levels and avoid exposure to potentially triggering environmental factors. However, drive times are critical.

The closest major hospitals are in Ridgewood (Valley Hospital) and Hackensack (Hackensack University Medical Center). Reaching Valley Hospital from central Glen Rock typically involves a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes, primarily utilizing **Prospect Street** and **East Ridgewood Avenue**. This route is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel time.

Hackensack University Medical Center, a more comprehensive facility, is accessible via **Route 208 South** and **Route 4 West**. The drive usually takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 208, a limited-access highway, can offer a faster journey, but its merging lanes and potential for accidents necessitate careful driving. Route 4, a major commercial thoroughfare, is prone to heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour.

Other healthcare providers, such as urgent care facilities and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the surrounding towns. Accessing these facilities often involves navigating local roads like **Rock Road**, **Maple Avenue**, and **Doremus Avenue**. While these roads are generally less congested than major highways, their winding nature and the presence of traffic signals can increase travel time.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation presents a viable, albeit potentially challenging, alternative for individuals with COPD. The New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) system serves Glen Rock with both bus and train services.

The **Main Line train**, which runs through Glen Rock, offers direct access to New York City and connects to various hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding areas. The Glen Rock Boro Station and Glen Rock Main Line Station provide access to this service. While the train itself is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps at most stations, the walk from the station to a medical facility could be a significant challenge for some individuals.

NJ Transit bus routes also traverse Glen Rock. **Route 164** provides service to Hackensack and Paramus, connecting to various healthcare providers along the way. **Route 722** offers a more local service, connecting to Ridgewood and surrounding towns. The accessibility of these buses is a critical consideration. NJ Transit strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps or lifts, but the availability of these features on every bus should be confirmed before travel. Waiting times at bus stops, exposure to the elements, and the potential for crowded conditions can pose additional challenges for individuals with COPD.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for navigating parking lots or waiting at bus stops. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. These services, such as **CareRide** or **First Transit**, provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who are experienced in assisting patients with mobility limitations. While these services offer a higher level of support, they often require advance booking and may be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**The COPD Score: Evaluating Healthcare Access:**

The COPD Score for Glen Rock (07452) considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The proximity of major hospitals and specialist offices, and the impact of traffic congestion on travel times.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability and frequency of NJ Transit services, the ADA compliance of buses and trains, and the distance from transit stops to medical facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The cost and availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport options.
* **Environmental Factors:** The impact of weather conditions, air quality, and potential exposure to allergens on travel.

Based on these factors, the COPD Score for Glen Rock is moderately positive. While the community benefits from relatively short drive times to nearby hospitals, the reliance on private vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion remain significant challenges. The availability of public transit offers an alternative, but the limitations of bus routes and the potential for crowded conditions require careful consideration. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but the cost and advance booking requirements must be factored in.

**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD Considering Moving to Glen Rock:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a home, prioritize locations within easy driving distance of healthcare providers.
* **Assess public transit suitability:** Evaluate the accessibility of NJ Transit services and the distance from transit stops to medical facilities.
* **Explore ride-sharing and medical transport options:** Research the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Plan for traffic:** Factor in potential traffic congestion when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Consider air quality:** Be mindful of air quality forecasts and take precautions to minimize exposure to pollutants.

Moving to Glen Rock presents a balanced picture for individuals with COPD. While the community offers several advantages, including proximity to healthcare and a relatively manageable geographical footprint, careful planning and a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape are essential for ensuring healthcare access and maintaining a high quality of life. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions about moving to this charming suburban community.