07074, Moonachie, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 07074, Moonachie, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.58 percent of residents in 07074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack University Medical Group Pc with a distance of 3.17 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Moonachie (07074)

This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" for residents of Moonachie, NJ (ZIP Code 07074), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services for individuals managing hypertension. The score considers various transportation options, evaluating their efficiency, reliability, and accessibility to medical facilities, including doctor's offices, pharmacies, and hospitals. A high score indicates easier access, while a low score suggests significant transportation challenges. This information is particularly pertinent for those considering moving to Moonachie, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health.

The primary challenge for residents of Moonachie is its location. Nestled within the Meadowlands, it's a small borough, geographically constrained, and heavily reliant on surrounding municipalities for essential services. This means that transportation, the lifeblood of healthcare access, becomes a critical factor. The score will assess the ease of navigating this landscape, considering the realities of daily life for those managing hypertension, who often require regular check-ups, medication refills, and occasional emergency care.

**Driving the Score: Roadways and Drive Times**

The backbone of transportation in Moonachie is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) offers a swift, albeit toll-laden, route to major medical centers in Newark and New York City. However, its high-speed nature and potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can present difficulties for individuals with hypertension, who may experience anxiety or stress in such situations.

The Garden State Parkway, another major artery, provides a more scenic and potentially less stressful route to hospitals in the northern suburbs. However, it too is prone to congestion, especially near exits and during rush hour. Driving times to nearby hospitals, such as Hackensack University Medical Center, average 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Local roads, including Moonachie Road, Paterson Plank Road, and Empire Boulevard, serve as essential connectors. These routes offer access to local doctor's offices and pharmacies. However, these roads are often narrow, congested, and lack dedicated bike lanes or pedestrian infrastructure, making them less ideal for those who prefer alternative modes of transportation. The drive-times on these roads are highly variable, depending on the time of day, but generally range from 5-15 minutes to access local medical facilities.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Public transportation in Moonachie presents a more complex picture. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service, with routes such as the 161 and 76 offering connections to surrounding towns and cities. These routes, while potentially affordable, are often subject to delays, especially during inclement weather or rush hour. The reliability of these routes is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. While NJT strives to provide accessible buses, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can vary. Individuals with mobility limitations may face challenges, impacting their ability to independently access healthcare. The score will reflect the availability and reliability of ADA-compliant services.

The lack of a direct train line within Moonachie further complicates matters. Residents wishing to utilize the train must travel to nearby stations, such as Secaucus Junction, adding another layer of complexity and travel time. This necessitates a combination of bus, car, or ride-share services, increasing the overall transportation burden.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Supplementary Options**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, alternative. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for transfers and offering a degree of flexibility. However, the cost can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments, potentially impacting healthcare access for those on fixed incomes. The availability of ride-share services in Moonachie is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, are available. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation to and from medical appointments. While providing a valuable service, they can be expensive and require advance booking, which might not be ideal for urgent care needs. The score considers the availability and affordability of these services.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Moonachie (07074) will be determined by weighting the factors discussed above. Driving times to various medical facilities, the reliability and accessibility of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-share services, and the availability of medical transport options will all contribute to the final score.

The score will also consider the proximity of local pharmacies and the availability of home healthcare services, as these factors can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, enabling residents, and those considering moving to Moonachie, to make informed decisions about their healthcare management.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For individuals with hypertension, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services are paramount. The Hypertension Score provides a valuable tool for assessing the ease with which they can access necessary care. A low score might indicate a need for careful planning, reliance on family or friends for transportation, or consideration of alternative living arrangements.

For those considering moving to Moonachie, the score offers a realistic view of the transportation challenges they may face. Understanding these challenges allows them to proactively plan for their healthcare needs, ensuring they can continue to manage their hypertension effectively. The score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in Moonachie, and a crucial factor in making informed decisions about where to live and how to thrive.