07075, Wood Ridge, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07075, Wood Ridge, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.92 percent of residents in 07075 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 2.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wood Ridge, NJ (ZIP Code 07075)

Considering a move to Wood Ridge, New Jersey (ZIP code 07075)? This assessment provides a “Lung Cancer Score” – a qualitative measure of the ease and efficiency with which a resident can access lung cancer-related healthcare services, factoring in **transportation** options. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This analysis is particularly relevant given the critical need for timely diagnosis and treatment in lung cancer cases. The higher the score, the better the **healthcare access**.

Wood Ridge, a charming borough nestled in Bergen County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient proximity to New York City. However, the ease of accessing specialized medical care, particularly for a disease like lung cancer, is a vital consideration. Our score will delve into the practicalities of reaching key healthcare providers from a Wood Ridge starting point.

The core of lung cancer treatment involves specialized oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and surgeons. These professionals are typically found at hospitals and cancer centers, which are the primary destinations for our **transportation** analysis.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and out of Wood Ridge are the Garden State Parkway and Route 17. The Garden State Parkway provides relatively direct access to hospitals located south of Wood Ridge, such as Hackensack University Medical Center. Driving to Hackensack, a major cancer treatment hub, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. The morning and evening commutes can significantly extend these times, especially on the Parkway.

Route 17, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers access to hospitals further north, but its notorious traffic congestion can make travel times unpredictable. Driving to hospitals in Ridgewood or Paramus via Route 17 might take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes, again, influenced by rush hour.

Smaller roads like Valley Boulevard and Moonachie Road provide alternative routes, but they can be slower and less direct, especially during peak traffic. The New Jersey Turnpike, while accessible, is less convenient for accessing hospitals in the immediate vicinity.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Public **transportation** options in Wood Ridge are primarily centered around New Jersey Transit (NJT) buses. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 163, 164, and 703. The 163 provides service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, while the 164 and 703 offer connections to various points within Bergen County, including hospitals.

The 163 bus offers a direct route to New York City, where several prominent cancer centers are located, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital. However, the bus ride itself can take upwards of an hour, and the subsequent subway or taxi ride to the hospital adds to the overall travel time.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on NJT buses varies. While most buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, it's essential to confirm the accessibility of the specific route and bus stop before travel. This is particularly crucial for patients with mobility limitations.

The 164 bus, connecting Wood Ridge to Hackensack, offers a more convenient option for reaching Hackensack University Medical Center. The ride is typically shorter than the trip to New York City, but the frequency of buses and potential for delays should be considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Wood Ridge. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for those unable to drive themselves or needing door-to-door service. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and distance.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Atlantic Ambulance offer specialized transport services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who need medical supervision during transport. The cost of medical transport is typically higher than ride-sharing, but it offers a higher level of care and support.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare providers in the immediate vicinity of Wood Ridge is a crucial factor. The proximity of Hackensack University Medical Center, a major cancer treatment center, is a significant advantage. Other hospitals in the surrounding areas, such as Valley Hospital in Ridgewood and Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, also offer cancer care services.

The quality of care at these hospitals is a key consideration. Researching the reputation of the hospitals, the experience of the oncologists, and the availability of advanced treatment options is essential.

**Lung Cancer Score Breakdown:**

Based on the analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Wood Ridge (07075) is moderately favorable. The score is influenced by several factors:

* **Proximity to Major Hospitals:** The close proximity to Hackensack University Medical Center is a significant positive.
* **Drive Times:** Drive times to hospitals are generally reasonable, though traffic can significantly impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Public transit offers viable options, but travel times can be lengthy, and ADA accessibility should be verified.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides convenient alternatives.

**Moving to Wood Ridge: A Balanced Perspective:**

For individuals considering **moving to Wood Ridge**, the **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients presents a balanced picture. While the proximity to major hospitals is a strong advantage, the reliance on **transportation** and the potential for traffic delays should be considered. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and research. Prospective residents should investigate the specific healthcare needs of their families, research the quality of care at local hospitals, and familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** options. This proactive approach will ensure that residents can access the necessary healthcare services with relative ease.