07660, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07660, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.99 percent of residents in 07660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Name Medical Center with a distance of 2.00 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ridgefield Park (ZIP Code 07660)

Considering a move to Ridgefield Park, New Jersey (ZIP code 07660), and concerned about lung cancer healthcare access? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, a comprehensive overview of transportation options to healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. We will delve into drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, providing insights into the ease and efficiency of navigating the healthcare landscape. The goal is to empower you with information, facilitating informed decisions regarding your health and well-being.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical rating but a qualitative evaluation of the accessibility and availability of healthcare resources. It reflects the ease with which a resident of 07660 can access lung cancer-related services. The score considers the time and effort required to reach medical facilities, factoring in traffic patterns, public transportation reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation methods.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

Ridgefield Park’s location offers relatively easy access to several hospitals and cancer centers. Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. The most direct routes often involve major roadways. From Ridgefield Park, the Garden State Parkway provides a north-south artery, offering access to hospitals in Bergen County and beyond. The New Jersey Turnpike, though further south, is another option, albeit potentially subject to higher tolls and traffic congestion.

The proximity to the George Washington Bridge is a significant advantage, providing access to New York City hospitals, including renowned cancer centers. However, this route can be heavily congested during peak hours. The Palisades Interstate Parkway offers an alternative route, though it may add travel time depending on the destination. Local roads like Teaneck Road and Hackensack Avenue provide access to local hospitals and medical offices.

Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. During off-peak hours, a drive to Hackensack University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, might take 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily double. Accessing New York City hospitals could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic at the George Washington Bridge.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those who prefer not to drive or lack access to a vehicle. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service throughout Bergen County, connecting Ridgefield Park to various healthcare facilities. The 167 bus route is a key option, offering service to Hackensack and other towns with medical facilities. The 163 and 166 routes also provide connections to nearby towns and hospitals.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, but it's essential to confirm the accessibility of specific routes and buses before travel. Real-time information on bus schedules and potential delays is available through the NJ Transit app and website.

The Bergen County bus system also provides connections to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, offering access to a wider range of healthcare facilities. This option requires a transfer and a longer travel time, but it can be a viable alternative, especially for those who prefer not to drive into the city.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services are readily available in Ridgefield Park and provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transportation companies operate in the area, offering services to hospitals, doctor's appointments, and other medical facilities. Researching and comparing different providers is crucial to finding the most suitable option.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **Medicaid Transportation Services:** If eligible, Medicaid recipients can access free or low-cost non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) through the state.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** A national provider offering ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation.
* **CareRide:** Specializes in non-emergency medical transportation.
* **First Transit:** Provides transportation services for various healthcare needs.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Ridgefield Park**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ridgefield Park is generally favorable. The area benefits from its proximity to major roadways, providing access to hospitals and cancer centers. Public transportation offers a viable alternative, especially for those who cannot drive. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services further enhance healthcare access.

However, it's crucial to acknowledge potential challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Public transportation schedules and reliability can also be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a factor for some individuals.

When considering a move to Ridgefield Park, prospective residents should factor in their individual transportation needs and preferences. Assessing the accessibility of specific healthcare facilities based on their individual needs is crucial. Researching and identifying the most convenient and reliable transportation options is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare services.

Ridgefield Park offers a relatively strong "Lung Cancer Score" in terms of transportation. While driving is often the most direct option, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation provides multiple avenues for accessing healthcare. The key is to proactively plan and prepare for healthcare needs, considering all available transportation options. This proactive approach will facilitate a smooth transition and ensure continued access to vital healthcare services.