07028, Glen Ridge, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07028, Glen Ridge, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.68 percent of residents in 07028 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensackumc Mountainside with a distance of 0.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Glen Ridge (07028)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Glen Ridge, New Jersey (ZIP code 07028), requires a deep dive into the critical intersection of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This analysis examines the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, considering various commuting options, including personal vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing services. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture, informing potential residents or those considering **moving to Glen Ridge** about the practicalities of maintaining their health.

Glen Ridge itself is a charming, affluent community, but its proximity to healthcare resources and the efficiency of reaching them are vital components of its overall livability. This score will evaluate the accessibility of healthcare providers in the surrounding area, focusing on the practical aspects of getting there.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare in the region are the major roadways. Traveling east, the Garden State Parkway provides a relatively direct route to hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding areas. However, peak hour traffic, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly impact travel times. Expect delays, especially on the Parkway, which is notorious for congestion.

Heading west, Bloomfield Avenue offers a more local route, connecting Glen Ridge to various medical practices and specialists. This road is generally less congested than the Parkway, but it is subject to traffic lights and local traffic patterns. The speed limit is lower, and the journey can be slower.

To the south, the proximity to the New Jersey Turnpike provides another option, offering a faster, albeit toll-based, route to healthcare facilities further afield. This is particularly useful for accessing hospitals in Newark or Jersey City. The Turnpike is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be unpredictable, especially during inclement weather.

The time it takes to get to a doctor's appointment is crucial. A short drive is ideal, but even a longer drive is acceptable if the roads are reliable. The drive times to various healthcare facilities from Glen Ridge vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. Expect a 15- to 30-minute drive to hospitals in Montclair, and potentially longer to facilities in Newark or Jersey City, particularly during rush hour.

**Public Transportation Options:**

For those who prefer to avoid driving, public transit offers an alternative. The New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) system provides bus and train services in the area. Several bus routes serve Glen Ridge, offering connections to hospitals and medical centers.

The 71 bus is a key route, running along Bloomfield Avenue and connecting to hospitals in Montclair. The 94 bus also provides service, offering access to healthcare facilities in the area. These buses operate on a regular schedule, but frequency can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week.

The Glen Ridge train station provides access to the NJ Transit Morris & Essex Lines, offering a direct route to Newark Penn Station, where connections to various healthcare facilities and specialists are available. This is a viable option, but it may involve transfers and walking distances to reach the final destination.

Accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. NJ Transit strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and trains. However, the availability of accessible features can vary depending on the route and the specific vehicle. Riders with disabilities should confirm the availability of accessible services before traveling.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another option for transportation to healthcare appointments. These services are readily available in Glen Ridge and offer a convenient way to get to and from medical facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Specialized medical transport services are also available for individuals who require assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. These services can be particularly beneficial for seniors or individuals with disabilities.

Medical transport services can be a lifeline for those who cannot drive or use public transit. They offer a safe and reliable way to access healthcare. The cost of these services can vary depending on the provider and the level of care required.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities:**

Several hospitals and medical centers are within a reasonable distance of Glen Ridge. Mountainside Medical Center in Montclair is a popular choice, offering a wide range of medical services. Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston is another major hospital, providing comprehensive care. Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark is a tertiary care center with specialized services.

Access to specialists is also a crucial factor. Glen Ridge residents have access to a wide range of specialists in the surrounding area, including cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists. The availability of specialists is a significant advantage for residents.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Glen Ridge is influenced by several factors. The availability of diverse transportation options, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the efficiency of reaching them all contribute to the score.

The cost of transportation is also a significant factor. The cost of driving, public transit fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services can impact the overall health score.

The availability of accessible transportation options is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The accessibility of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport services all contribute to the score.

The ease of scheduling appointments and the availability of appointment slots also influence the score. Long wait times and limited appointment availability can negatively impact the overall health score.

**Conclusion:**

Based on this analysis, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Glen Ridge (07028) is positive. The community offers a good balance of transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing services. The proximity to hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding area is a significant advantage.

While traffic congestion on major roadways can impact travel times, the availability of alternative routes and public transit options mitigates this concern. The accessibility of public transit and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services enhance the overall health score.

For those **moving to Glen Ridge**, the ease of **healthcare access** is a strong point. The community offers a convenient and accessible environment for residents to maintain their health. However, potential residents should consider the cost of transportation and the potential for traffic delays when evaluating their healthcare needs.