07605, Leonia, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07605, Leonia, New Jersey is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.97 percent of residents in 07605 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Englewood Hospital And Medical Center with a distance of 3.03 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Leonia, NJ (ZIP Code 07605)

Leonia, New Jersey, a charming borough nestled in Bergen County, offers a desirable quality of life. However, like any community, residents face challenges, particularly concerning healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 07605, focusing on its impact on individuals seeking lung cancer treatment. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, ultimately aiming to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease and accessibility of healthcare for potential residents or those already living in Leonia.

The journey to healthcare, especially for those battling lung cancer, is multifaceted. Regular appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, and check-ups are crucial. The ability to reach these appointments efficiently and with minimal stress significantly impacts a patient's well-being and treatment adherence. This analysis considers the available transportation options, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in Leonia.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For many Leonia residents, the primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles. The borough's location, strategically positioned near major roadways, offers both advantages and disadvantages. The primary arteries for navigating the area include the Palisades Interstate Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), and Route 4.

Driving to the nearest hospitals offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment requires careful consideration of traffic patterns. Hackensack University Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is approximately a 20-minute drive, assuming moderate traffic conditions. The route typically involves taking Route 4 East and then the Hackensack Avenue exit. However, during peak hours, especially morning and evening commutes, this drive can easily extend to 30-45 minutes, adding significant stress for patients.

Another viable option is Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, roughly a 15-minute drive via Palisade Avenue and Route 9W. This route, while shorter, can be congested, particularly around the George Washington Bridge. The George Washington Bridge is a critical artery for accessing healthcare in New York City, where many specialized lung cancer treatment centers are located. Driving to Manhattan, however, can be a daunting prospect, with potential travel times exceeding an hour, even for relatively short distances. This is something to consider when moving to Leonia.

The availability of parking at these medical facilities is also a factor. While most hospitals offer parking garages, fees can accumulate, adding another financial burden for patients. Moreover, navigating these parking facilities, especially for those with mobility limitations, can be challenging.

**Public Transit: A Path Less Traveled, but Still Relevant**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those unable or unwilling to drive. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service in Leonia. Several bus routes connect Leonia to surrounding towns and cities, including New York City.

The primary bus routes serving Leonia include the 158, 166, and 182. The 158 route travels along Palisade Avenue, connecting Leonia to Fort Lee and the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal. The 166 and 182 routes run along Grand Avenue, providing access to Hackensack and other destinations.

For individuals with lung cancer, the accessibility of public transit is paramount. All NJ Transit buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a concern. Waiting times can be long, potentially exacerbating the stress and fatigue associated with cancer treatment.

Furthermore, the need to transfer between buses or to connect with other modes of transportation, such as the train, can add to the travel time and complexity. The nearest train station is in New Bridge Landing, which requires a bus ride or a taxi to reach.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: A Modern Solution?**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to drive or rely on public transit schedules. They can be particularly useful for patients who have difficulty driving or who need assistance getting to and from appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Leonia is generally good. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some patients, especially those with limited financial resources. Furthermore, surge pricing, which occurs during peak hours or periods of high demand, can significantly increase the cost of a ride.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by medical transportation companies, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and personal care. While these services can be invaluable for patients with significant mobility limitations, they are often the most expensive transportation option.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in Leonia**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in Leonia, we can formulate a "Lung Cancer Score." This score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive time to major hospitals offering lung cancer treatment.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA features of public transit routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Parking Availability and Cost:** The availability and cost of parking at medical facilities.

Given the factors, Leonia receives a moderate Lung Cancer Score. The proximity to major roadways and hospitals offers relatively convenient access to healthcare. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Public transit is available but may be limited in frequency and require transfers. Ride-sharing services are readily available but can be costly. Medical transportation services are available but are the most expensive option. Parking at hospitals is available but can be costly.

**Moving to Leonia: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Leonia, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer, careful consideration of transportation options is crucial. While the borough offers a desirable quality of life, healthcare access is a critical factor.

* **Assess Your Mobility:** If you have mobility limitations, consider the accessibility of public transit and the availability of medical transportation services.
* **Evaluate Your Financial Resources:** Factor in the cost of transportation, including gas, parking, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Research Hospital Proximity:** Determine the proximity of your preferred healthcare providers and assess the potential travel times during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Explore Local Resources:** Investigate local resources, such as community transportation programs or volunteer driver services, that may be available to assist with transportation needs.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Leonia reflects a mixed picture. While healthcare access is generally good, the transportation landscape presents challenges. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are essential for ensuring convenient and stress-free access to healthcare. The best course of action is to evaluate your personal needs and resources before making any decisions about moving to Leonia.