07606, South Hackensack, New Jersey COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 07606, South Hackensack, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.13 percent of residents in 07606 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack University Medical Group Pc with a distance of 1.49 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07606

Considering a move to South Hackensack, New Jersey, ZIP code 07606, and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This analysis assesses the ease of accessing healthcare, a critical factor for individuals navigating the challenges of COPD. We’ll delve into the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions to determine a “COPD Score” reflecting the practicality of healthcare access.

South Hackensack, a charming Bergen County community, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. However, the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly for those with respiratory conditions, demands careful consideration. The ability to reach medical appointments swiftly and reliably significantly impacts quality of life. This report provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options, aiming to empower informed decision-making for individuals considering a move to this area.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving South Hackensack are essential to understanding healthcare access. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to hospitals and specialists. However, rush hour traffic can significantly impact travel times, particularly southbound toward New York City. Route 46, a busy east-west highway, offers another route, though it’s often congested.

Driving to Hackensack University Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours via Route 46 East or the Garden State Parkway. However, during peak commute times, this journey can easily stretch to 30 minutes or more. Similarly, accessing Valley Hospital in Ridgewood involves navigating local roads like River Street and Spring Valley Road, adding to the potential travel time. The variable nature of traffic necessitates careful planning for medical appointments, especially for individuals with COPD, who may experience increased breathlessness during stressful situations.

Accessing smaller clinics and specialist offices within the surrounding towns, such as Paramus and Maywood, often involves navigating local streets. These routes are generally less congested than the major highways but can still be affected by local traffic patterns. Considering the unpredictability of traffic, individuals with COPD should factor in extra travel time to ensure they arrive at their appointments comfortably and without undue stress.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, though it presents its own set of considerations. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service throughout Bergen County. Several bus routes, including the 161, 163, and 165, serve South Hackensack, connecting it to major destinations like Hackensack, Paramus, and New York City.

The 161 bus, for instance, travels along Route 46, offering a direct route to Hackensack, where several medical facilities are located. The 163 and 165 routes provide access to other areas with healthcare providers. However, bus travel can be time-consuming, with potential delays due to traffic and scheduled stops.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with COPD. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible buses, but it's essential to confirm the specific features of each route and bus before traveling. This includes features like ramps, priority seating, and audio-visual announcements. Planning a bus trip requires careful consideration of the route, schedule, and accessibility features to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive. However, ride-share availability and cost can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and Liberty Medical Transportation, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring safe and comfortable transport. While these services offer a higher level of care, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**The COPD Score:**

Evaluating the transportation options in ZIP code 07606 yields a nuanced “COPD Score.” The proximity to major highways and the availability of public transit offer some advantages. However, the potential for traffic congestion, the time-consuming nature of bus travel, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport introduce challenges.

Considering the variables, the COPD Score for 07606 would be moderate. While healthcare access is available, it requires careful planning and consideration of the potential travel time and associated stress. Individuals with COPD should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation mode, considering their individual needs and preferences.

**Recommendations:**

Individuals with COPD considering a move to South Hackensack should prioritize the following:

* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify nearby hospitals, clinics, and specialists.
* **Assess transportation needs:** Determine the most suitable transportation options based on individual mobility limitations and financial constraints.
* **Plan for traffic:** Factor in extra travel time, especially during peak hours.
* **Explore public transit:** Investigate bus routes and accessibility features.
* **Consider ride-sharing and medical transport:** Evaluate the cost and availability of these services.
* **Establish a support network:** Identify family, friends, or caregivers who can assist with transportation.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with COPD can make an informed decision about moving to South Hackensack and ensure they have reliable access to the healthcare they need. This approach empowers informed decision-making, facilitating a smoother transition and promoting a higher quality of life.