07675, Westwood, New Jersey COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 07675, Westwood, New Jersey is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.28 percent of residents in 07675 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical with a distance of 1.44 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westwood, NJ (ZIP Code 07675)

Westwood, New Jersey, a charming Bergen County borough, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Assessing the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** points is crucial for residents, especially those considering **moving to Westwood**. This "COPD Score" write-up analyzes the accessibility of medical facilities from various points within the 07675 ZIP code, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services.

The cornerstone of healthcare in Westwood is the Valley Hospital, located just outside the borough in Ridgewood. This facility offers comprehensive pulmonary care, including specialized clinics and respiratory therapy. Reaching Valley Hospital from Westwood generally involves driving. The primary routes are via the Garden State Parkway, the most direct route, or the more local, albeit often congested, Route 17.

From central Westwood, the drive to Valley Hospital, via the Garden State Parkway, typically takes 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, during peak rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 30-40 minutes, particularly on the Parkway southbound. Route 17, while shorter in distance, is notorious for its heavy traffic flow, especially near the Paramus and Ridgewood areas. Expect similar drive times, and potentially longer, on this route.

For residents residing in the more northern sections of Westwood, near Pascack Road, the drive times might be slightly shorter to the hospital, depending on traffic conditions. Conversely, residents in the southern parts of the borough, closer to the Garden State Parkway, may have a marginally quicker journey.

Public transit options for accessing Valley Hospital from Westwood are limited. The primary mode of public **transportation** is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. The 163, 165, and 758 bus routes offer service within the area, but they do not directly connect to the hospital. Passengers would need to disembark at a designated stop and then utilize a ride-sharing service, taxi, or walk a considerable distance to the hospital.

The 163 route, which travels along Kinderkamack Road, offers a relatively frequent service, but its route doesn’t provide a direct link to Valley Hospital. The 165, running along Westwood Avenue, offers another potential connection, but again, requires a transfer or a final leg via other means. The 758 route, which runs along the Pascack Valley Line, offers another alternative, but again, does not directly serve the hospital.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on NJT buses is generally available, with ramps and designated seating. However, the reliance on transfers and the potential for long walks to the hospital pose a challenge for individuals with COPD, who may experience breathing difficulties during physical exertion.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Westwood. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who may be unable to drive themselves. The estimated cost for a ride to Valley Hospital from Westwood varies based on demand and time of day, but generally ranges from $20 to $40.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, are also available in the area. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Services specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services offer a more tailored and supportive experience for individuals with COPD, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey to their appointments. The cost of these services is typically higher than ride-sharing services, but they provide added peace of mind and specialized assistance.

For those considering **moving to Westwood**, the **transportation** landscape significantly impacts **healthcare access**. While the borough offers a desirable quality of life, its proximity to major highways and the limited direct public transit options to the primary hospital necessitate careful consideration.

The "COPD Score" for Westwood, therefore, would reflect a mixed picture. While drive times to Valley Hospital are generally manageable, traffic congestion during peak hours is a concern. The reliance on ride-sharing services or medical **transportation** adds to the overall cost and complexity of accessing **healthcare**. The limited direct public transit options pose a significant challenge for individuals with COPD, particularly those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical **transportation** provides crucial support, but these options come with associated costs. The overall score would be influenced by the individual's ability to drive, their financial resources, and their comfort level with alternative **transportation** modes.

The presence of local pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and primary care physicians within Westwood provides a degree of convenience for routine medical needs. However, for specialized pulmonary care and hospitalizations, the reliance on **transportation** to Valley Hospital remains a critical factor.

In conclusion, Westwood, NJ (07675) offers a blend of advantages and challenges for individuals with COPD. The proximity to Valley Hospital is a significant benefit, but the potential for traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit require careful planning. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides valuable support, but these options add to the overall cost and complexity of **healthcare access**. Prospective residents with COPD should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and preferences when considering **moving to Westwood**.