07660, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension 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.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ridgefield Park (ZIP Code 07660)

For prospective residents considering a move to Ridgefield Park, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07660), understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and around this vibrant Bergen County community. The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a practical guide for those prioritizing healthcare accessibility.

Ridgefield Park, a town characterized by its close-knit community and convenient location, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its proximity to major roadways and public transit lines offers residents a range of options for reaching medical facilities. The "Hypertension Score" aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and advantages of accessing healthcare, ensuring informed decision-making for individuals managing hypertension or other health concerns.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roads**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents in Ridgefield Park. The town's location offers relatively easy access to major hospitals and medical centers, though traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. The primary arteries influencing healthcare access include the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), the Garden State Parkway, and local roads like Route 46, Teaneck Road, and Main Street.

For residents seeking specialized care at Hackensack University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, the drive typically involves navigating the local roads and potentially the Garden State Parkway. During off-peak hours, the journey might take approximately 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 30-45 minutes or longer, highlighting the impact of peak-time traffic on healthcare access.

Similarly, accessing Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck requires navigating local roads, potentially including Teaneck Road and Cedar Lane. The drive time, typically 10-15 minutes during non-peak hours, can be significantly prolonged during rush hour, potentially adding another 15-20 minutes to the journey. These time variations emphasize the importance of considering traffic patterns when planning medical appointments.

Other healthcare facilities, such as urgent care centers and specialist offices located within and around Ridgefield Park, can be accessed via local roads like Main Street and Overpeck Avenue. Drive times to these facilities generally range from 5-15 minutes, offering convenient access for routine check-ups and immediate medical needs.

**Public Transit: A Network of Connections**

Public transit provides an alternative to driving, offering a cost-effective and often less stressful way to reach healthcare facilities. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) operates bus routes that serve Ridgefield Park and connect to major hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding areas.

NJ Transit bus route 167, a key route, provides direct access to Hackensack University Medical Center. This route offers frequent service throughout the day, providing a reliable option for residents without access to a car. The bus stop locations within Ridgefield Park are strategically placed to facilitate convenient access for residents.

Route 163 also serves the area, connecting to destinations like the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal, which provides connections to various healthcare facilities in New York City. This offers access to a broader range of specialized medical services.

The accessibility of public transit is further enhanced by the presence of ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the frequency of service and the potential for delays due to traffic or other factors should be considered when planning medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Flexible Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for individuals who may not own a car or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering flexibility in scheduling and route selection.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Ridgefield Park is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

For individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, medical transport services offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services require advance booking and often involve a higher cost compared to ride-sharing or public transit.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Ridgefield Park, considering the factors outlined above, can be considered moderately favorable. The town's location offers a blend of accessible transportation options, but each has its own set of challenges.

Driving provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, particularly during peak hours. Public transit offers a cost-effective alternative, but it is subject to delays and requires careful planning. Ride-sharing services provide flexibility but can be expensive. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but come with a higher price tag.

For individuals managing hypertension, the availability of multiple transportation options is a significant advantage. This allows residents to choose the most suitable mode of transport based on their individual needs and circumstances. The proximity of major hospitals and medical centers further enhances healthcare access, offering a range of specialized services within a reasonable distance.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For those considering moving to Ridgefield Park and prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The town's location offers a balance of advantages and challenges, with multiple options for reaching healthcare facilities.

The "Hypertension Score" assessment highlights the importance of considering factors like traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the cost of ride-sharing services. By carefully evaluating these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose a transportation strategy that best suits their individual circumstances. The ability to access healthcare efficiently is a critical aspect of maintaining well-being, and Ridgefield Park offers a community where residents can find a balance between accessibility and convenience.