07004, Fairfield, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07004, Fairfield, New Jersey is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.09 percent of residents in 07004 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chilton Medical Center with a distance of 5.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Fairfield, NJ (ZIP Code 07004)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Fairfield, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07004) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare. A critical component of this assessment is the ease and efficiency with which individuals can commute to medical facilities. This analysis considers various transportation options, focusing on drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Fairfield.

Fairfield, a suburban community, offers a blend of residential tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This positioning significantly impacts healthcare access, as residents often rely on neighboring towns and cities for specialized medical services. The primary challenge lies in navigating the complex network of roads and transit options to reach these essential healthcare providers.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The backbone of transportation in Fairfield is its road network. Major thoroughfares like Route 46 and Route 80 are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities. Route 46, a major east-west artery, provides direct access to hospitals and medical centers in surrounding areas, including those in Montclair and Clifton. Route 80, a major interstate, facilitates travel to healthcare providers further afield, such as those in New York City and the northern New Jersey suburbs.

Commuting by car offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, but drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. A typical drive to a primary care physician in nearby Caldwell might take 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily double. Reaching a major hospital like Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston could take 20-30 minutes, while a trip to a specialized facility in Manhattan could stretch to over an hour.

Local roads, including Bloomfield Avenue and Hollywood Avenue, serve as connectors to the major highways. These roads, while offering alternative routes, can be congested during peak hours, adding to the overall commute time. The availability of ample parking at healthcare facilities is another factor to consider, as parking availability can influence the overall convenience and stress associated with accessing care.

**Public Transit Options:**

For residents who prefer not to drive, or who lack access to a personal vehicle, public transportation provides an alternative route to healthcare. The New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) system offers bus services that connect Fairfield to neighboring towns and cities. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 11, 29, and 71. These routes provide access to hospitals and medical centers in surrounding areas, such as Montclair and Clifton.

The 11 route travels along Bloomfield Avenue, connecting Fairfield to Montclair and Newark. The 29 route provides service to Clifton and Paterson, while the 71 route offers a more direct connection to the Willowbrook Mall and the surrounding area. The frequency of these bus routes varies, with more frequent service during peak hours.

Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available on NJ Transit buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the frequency of these routes and the overall travel time can be a significant drawback. A bus trip to a hospital in a neighboring town could easily take twice as long as a car ride. The potential for delays due to traffic and the need to navigate multiple transfers can also impact the convenience of public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option for Fairfield residents. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, providing a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services in Fairfield is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to 15 minutes, depending on the time of day and demand.

The cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the distance and time of day. While ride-sharing can be a convenient option, it can also be more expensive than public transit, particularly for longer trips. Individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance may find ride-sharing less suitable.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide and MedTrans, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Medical transport services are particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit due to physical limitations or medical conditions.

The cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and the specific provider. While these services offer a valuable resource for individuals with special needs, they can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Fairfield, NJ (07004) is moderately positive. While the community benefits from its proximity to major highways and a network of public transit routes, several factors impact the ease of healthcare access. Drive times can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transit offers an alternative, but travel times can be lengthy, and the frequency of service may not meet all needs. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient option, but costs can be a barrier. Medical transport services offer specialized assistance for those with specific needs, but they can be costly.

For those considering moving to Fairfield, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences is crucial. Individuals who rely on specialized medical care or who have mobility limitations should carefully consider the availability and cost of medical transport services. Those who prefer public transit should familiarize themselves with the NJ Transit bus routes and schedules. Ultimately, the overall health score for healthcare access in Fairfield depends on the individual's ability to navigate the available transportation options and their specific healthcare requirements. The availability of diverse transportation options, combined with the proximity to various healthcare facilities, contributes to a generally favorable healthcare access environment for residents.