07470, Wayne, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07470, Wayne, New Jersey is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.22 percent of residents in 07470 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chilton Medical Center with a distance of 3.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Wayne, NJ (ZIP Code 07470)

The air in Wayne, New Jersey, is often crisp, carrying the scent of the Passaic River and the rustling leaves of the Ramapo Mountains. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the air can feel heavy with worry. Beyond the diagnosis itself, a crucial factor in navigating this challenging journey is **transportation** to **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape for individuals residing in ZIP code 07470, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on ease of **moving to Wayne** and receiving timely medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score considers factors like drive times to major cancer centers, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport. It's a snapshot of the current realities, recognizing that **healthcare access** is a dynamic entity. The score aims to provide a clear picture of what individuals face when **moving to Wayne** and needing treatment.

**Drive Time and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the primary mode of **transportation** is the automobile. Wayne, NJ, is strategically positioned, offering access to major roadways. The most direct route to many healthcare facilities involves navigating the well-traveled arteries of the region.

The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers quick access to hospitals in northern New Jersey and New York City. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Heading south on the Parkway, reaching hospitals in the greater Newark area, such as those affiliated with RWJBarnabas Health, is possible.

Route 23, another critical road, provides direct access to St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, a comprehensive facility with cancer care services. This route can be challenging during rush hour, with traffic lights and congestion adding to the travel time. Route 46, running parallel to Route 80, offers an alternative route to hospitals in the northern and eastern parts of the state.

The drive time to these facilities varies based on the time of day and traffic conditions. A trip to Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment center, could take 30-45 minutes in off-peak hours via the Garden State Parkway. During rush hour, this could easily double. The same applies to other hospitals, such as the Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, or the major medical centers in New York City.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

Public transit offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service throughout Wayne, with several routes traversing the area. The bus routes, however, often involve multiple transfers and longer travel times compared to driving.

The 197 bus, for example, connects Wayne to the Willowbrook Mall, offering connections to other bus routes and the Montclair-Boonton Line of NJ Transit. The Montclair-Boonton Line provides train service to New York City, passing through several towns with hospitals along the way. However, the train station in Wayne is not centrally located, requiring additional local **transportation** to reach it.

Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical consideration. NJ Transit is required to provide ADA-accessible buses and trains. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating transfers can vary. Individuals requiring specialized assistance should confirm ADA compliance of each route and station before planning their journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They provide door-to-door service, potentially reducing travel time and stress. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

For individuals requiring specialized medical **transportation**, several companies operate in the area. These services provide non-emergency medical **transportation** with trained staff and specialized vehicles. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer services that may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and assistance with mobility. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**The Lung Cancer Score for Wayne, NJ (07470)**

Considering the factors above, the Lung Cancer Score for Wayne, NJ (07470) is a moderate 7 out of 10.

**Strengths:**

* Proximity to major roadways (Garden State Parkway, Route 23, Route 46) offers direct access to various healthcare facilities.
* Ride-sharing services provide convenient door-to-door **transportation**.
* Availability of medical **transportation** services for specialized needs.

**Weaknesses:**

* Traffic congestion on major roadways can significantly increase travel times.
* Public transit options are limited, requiring multiple transfers and longer travel times.
* The cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** can be a barrier for some individuals.

**Recommendations:**

* Individuals should carefully consider their **transportation** needs and preferences when **moving to Wayne**.
* Explore multiple **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation**.
* Factor in travel time and cost when scheduling medical appointments.
* Confirm ADA accessibility of public transit routes if applicable.
* Research and pre-arrange medical **transportation** services if required.

This Lung Cancer Score provides a starting point for understanding the **transportation** landscape in Wayne, NJ (07470). The challenges of a cancer diagnosis are significant, and ensuring easy access to **healthcare access** is a vital component of the journey. By understanding the available options, individuals can navigate the system with greater confidence and focus on their health and well-being.