07444, Pompton Plains, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07444, Pompton Plains, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.52 percent of residents in 07444 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chilton Medical Center with a distance of 0.64 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pompton Plains (ZIP Code 07444)

The air hangs heavy with potential, not just the promise of new beginnings for those **moving to Pompton Plains**, but also the ever-present shadow of health concerns. This write-up offers a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, a personalized assessment of **healthcare access** within the 07444 ZIP code, focusing on **transportation** options for timely and effective treatment. It's a crucial consideration for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis, or simply seeking to understand the landscape of care.

Pompton Plains, nestled in Morris County, New Jersey, presents a unique blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This duality shapes the journey to healthcare, demanding careful navigation of roadways, public transit, and alternative **transportation** solutions. The Lung Cancer Score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, and accessibility features, aiming to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** is Route 287, a major north-south highway. Heading south, the drive to Morristown Medical Center, a renowned facility with a comprehensive cancer program, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey involves navigating the often-congested Route 287 and then merging onto I-287, or utilizing local roads like Hamburg Turnpike and Route 202 for a slightly longer but potentially less stressful route.

Northbound on Route 287 offers access to hospitals in the northern New Jersey area, including St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson. This drive, usually around 15-25 minutes, is a viable option, especially for those seeking specialized care or second opinions. However, the traffic on Route 287 can be unpredictable, potentially extending travel times significantly during peak hours.

Smaller roads like Newark-Pompton Turnpike and Hamburg Turnpike serve as crucial connectors, offering alternative routes to hospitals and medical facilities. These roads, while often less congested than the highways, can be slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits. They also offer access to local clinics and physician offices, potentially reducing the need for longer drives for routine appointments and follow-up care.

Public transit options, while available, present a more complex picture. NJ Transit operates bus routes through the area, including the 197 and 74 routes. The 197, offering service to and from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, provides a potential link to specialized cancer centers in Manhattan. The 74 route serves local areas, connecting Pompton Plains to neighboring towns and potentially to medical facilities.

However, the availability of these routes, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited. Furthermore, the accessibility of these buses for individuals with mobility limitations, including those undergoing cancer treatment, is crucial. NJ Transit strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, but the reliability of this service and the ease of access at all stops should be thoroughly investigated.

The absence of a direct rail line in Pompton Plains necessitates relying on bus connections to reach train stations. This adds another layer of complexity and potential delays to the journey. The need for transfers and the varying schedules of bus and train services can make public transit a less desirable option, especially for individuals experiencing fatigue or other side effects of cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative, providing door-to-door **transportation**. However, the cost of these services can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments and treatments. The availability of drivers in the area, especially during off-peak hours, should also be considered.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a valuable resource for patients who require assistance with **transportation**. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility. Researching the availability and cost of these services in the 07444 area is essential.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Pompton Plains, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While access to healthcare facilities is relatively good due to the proximity of major hospitals and the availability of diverse **transportation** options, the reliance on highways and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning. The score would be adjusted based on individual needs and circumstances.

For individuals **moving to Pompton Plains** and concerned about lung cancer care, the following recommendations are vital. First, research the specific cancer programs offered by hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. Second, assess the practicality of using public transit, considering the frequency and timing of appointments. Third, explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

Finally, consider the potential impact of traffic congestion on travel times. The ability to navigate the complexities of **transportation** is critical to ensuring timely access to care, reducing stress, and improving the overall quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number, but a dynamic evaluation that should be continuously updated to reflect the evolving needs of the individual and the changing landscape of healthcare access.