07070, Rutherford, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07070, Rutherford, New Jersey is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.60 percent of residents in 07070 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 2.70 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rutherford, NJ (ZIP Code 07070)

The air we breathe, the journeys we take, and the access we have to care – these factors intertwine to shape our health, particularly when facing a serious illness like lung cancer. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Rutherford, NJ (ZIP code 07070), assessing its impact on healthcare access, specifically for individuals needing lung cancer treatment. We'll explore the ease of reaching critical medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Rutherford or seeking care within this community.

Rutherford, a charming borough in Bergen County, offers a suburban lifestyle within easy reach of New York City. However, the proximity to urban centers and the demands of daily life often create complex transportation needs. For residents battling lung cancer, these complexities can significantly impact their quality of life and the effectiveness of their treatment. Efficient and reliable transportation is paramount, ensuring timely access to appointments, therapies, and crucial support services.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Recovery**

For many Rutherford residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. Accessing lung cancer treatment often necessitates navigating the local road network. The proximity of major highways, while offering convenience, can also present challenges, particularly during peak traffic hours.

The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to hospitals in the surrounding areas. Driving north on the Parkway, you can reach Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment facility, in approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Southbound, the Parkway offers access to hospitals in Newark and beyond, though travel times can be significantly longer, potentially exceeding an hour during rush hour.

Route 17, another critical highway, runs parallel to the Parkway, offering an alternative route. However, Route 17 is notorious for heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting times. Travel to Hackensack via Route 17 can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more. Local roads like Park Avenue and Union Avenue provide access to various medical offices and specialists within Rutherford and neighboring towns. These routes, while convenient for local errands, may not always be the most efficient for reaching major hospitals.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

For those who prefer or require public transportation, Rutherford offers a variety of options. NJ Transit provides bus and train services connecting Rutherford to various destinations, including major hospitals and medical centers.

The New Jersey Transit rail line, with a station in Rutherford, offers direct access to New York City and connections to other regional rail lines. While not directly serving hospitals, the train can provide access to transfer points for bus routes that do. The train, however, may not be ideal for individuals undergoing treatment who may be fatigued or have mobility limitations.

NJ Transit bus routes, such as the 161, 163, and 190, serve Rutherford and connect to surrounding towns and cities. These buses provide access to various medical facilities, including those in Hackensack and Newark. However, bus travel can be time-consuming, with potential delays due to traffic. Accessibility features on buses, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available, making them a viable option for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

In recent years, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly prevalent, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, providing door-to-door service and eliminating the stress of driving or navigating public transit.

For patients needing specialized medical transportation, several companies offer dedicated services. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles, trained drivers, and assistance with medical equipment. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare are frequently used in the area, offering non-emergency medical transport. These services, however, may require pre-booking and can be subject to availability.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

The availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities are paramount for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. In Rutherford, residents have access to a range of hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding areas.

Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment center, is a primary destination for many Rutherford residents. The hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services. Other hospitals in the region, such as St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson and Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, also offer cancer treatment options.

The proximity of these facilities is a significant advantage for Rutherford residents. However, the ease of access depends heavily on transportation. The drive times, public transit options, and availability of ride-sharing services all play a crucial role in determining how quickly and efficiently patients can reach their appointments.

**Moving to Rutherford: A Holistic Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Rutherford, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. While Rutherford offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, the realities of commuting and accessing medical care must be carefully considered.

The availability of multiple transportation options, including driving, public transit, and ride-sharing services, provides flexibility. However, individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment may face challenges. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are crucial.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Summary**

Evaluating the transportation landscape in Rutherford (07070) reveals a mixed picture. The proximity of major highways provides relatively quick access to hospitals, but traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. Public transit offers an alternative, but travel times can be lengthy, and the train may not be ideal for patients. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide valuable options, but availability and cost must be considered.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Rutherford hinges on individual circumstances. For those with reliable transportation and access to support services, Rutherford offers a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on public transit, the challenges can be more significant. Prospective residents should carefully assess their individual needs and preferences when considering a move to Rutherford, ensuring they have a clear understanding of the transportation options available and their potential impact on their healthcare journey. The journey to recovery demands ease of access, and Rutherford offers a landscape with both advantages and challenges in the fight against lung cancer.