07502, Paterson, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07502, Paterson, New Jersey is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.58 percent of residents in 07502 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 5.03 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 07502

The air hangs heavy with the ghosts of industry in Paterson, New Jersey, ZIP code 07502. A legacy of manufacturing, coupled with environmental factors, places residents at a heightened risk for lung cancer. Understanding **healthcare access** becomes paramount, a crucial element in any life-saving intervention. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," examines the **transportation** landscape, offering a granular perspective on how residents can reach crucial medical services. Considering the challenges, this assessment aims to illuminate pathways to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

For those contemplating **moving to Paterson**, understanding the realities of navigating the healthcare system is essential. The Lung Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of accessibility. It is a guide, not a guarantee, but it provides crucial information for residents and prospective newcomers alike.

The primary healthcare hub for lung cancer care in the area is St. Joseph's University Medical Center, located at 703 Main Street. The score considers this hospital as the primary destination. Driving to St. Joseph's from various points within 07502 presents a mixed bag of experiences.

Driving from the eastern reaches of 07502, near the Passaic River, involves navigating local streets like Main Street and McLean Boulevard, often congested during peak hours. Expect a 10-15 minute drive, potentially longer during rush hour. Accessing the Garden State Parkway, a major artery, is relatively straightforward, but traffic can significantly impact travel times.

From the western side of 07502, near the intersection of Route 19 and I-80, the journey to St. Joseph's is generally quicker. Route 19 offers direct access to Main Street, typically resulting in a 5-10 minute drive. However, traffic signals and pedestrian crossings can introduce delays. I-80, a vital east-west corridor, can be a faster alternative, but congestion is common, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) offers a comprehensive network of public transit options, but accessibility varies. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system is the primary mode of public transportation within 07502. Several bus routes directly serve St. Joseph's University Medical Center, including the #161, #703, and #746. These routes offer frequent service, particularly during the day.

The #161, originating in Paterson and traveling along Main Street, provides a direct route. The #703, connecting Paterson to various neighboring towns, also stops near the hospital. The #746 offers another convenient option, connecting the area with the surrounding towns. While bus service is relatively affordable, travel times can be significantly longer than driving, especially during peak hours.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. NJ Transit buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the bus system can vary. Prospective users should check the NJ Transit website for specific route information and accessibility details.

Beyond NJ Transit, alternative transportation options exist. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering on-demand transportation to St. Joseph's. While convenient, ride-sharing fares can fluctuate based on demand, potentially making them a less affordable option than public transit.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide another layer of support. These services, such as AMR and Careline, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit. However, medical transport services often require pre-booking and may involve higher costs.

The presence of these various transportation options, however, doesn’t negate the challenges faced by residents. The Lung Cancer Score takes into account these factors, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transport. The score isn't just about distance; it's about the time, cost, and accessibility of reaching vital healthcare services.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers factors beyond mere travel time. The availability of parking at St. Joseph's, the presence of patient navigation services, and the overall quality of care offered by the hospital are all factored in. Early detection is crucial in the fight against lung cancer, and the score aims to highlight the pathways that facilitate timely access to screening and treatment.

The score is not static. It is a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of alternative transportation options. The goal is to provide a realistic and up-to-date picture of healthcare access in 07502.

The journey to healthcare in 07502 is a multifaceted one. It demands a careful consideration of available resources and a willingness to navigate the complexities of the local transportation system. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a compass, guiding residents toward the resources they need to protect their health.

For those contemplating **moving to Paterson**, the score offers a critical insight into the realities of accessing healthcare. It is a reminder that healthcare access is not merely a matter of proximity; it is a complex interplay of transportation, affordability, and the availability of support services.

The Lung Cancer Score is a tool designed to empower residents of 07502. It provides a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities that exist in navigating the healthcare system. By understanding the nuances of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.