07032, Kearny, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07032, Kearny, New Jersey is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.72 percent of residents in 07032 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carewell Health Family Health Center with a distance of 1.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07032 (Kearny, NJ)

This analysis provides an overall health score for healthcare access within ZIP Code 07032, focusing on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. The score considers various factors, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport. Understanding these elements is crucial for residents, especially those considering **moving to Kearny**, as they directly impact overall well-being and healthcare utilization. This write-up aims to paint a comprehensive picture, enabling informed decisions regarding healthcare access.

The health score is not a singular number but a multifaceted assessment. It considers the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of available **transportation** options, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with varying needs, including those with disabilities. The goal is to provide a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare within and around Kearny.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Kearny's location offers relatively good access to healthcare facilities via roadways. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. The primary routes for accessing medical care involve the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), the Garden State Parkway, and local roads like Route 7 and the Pulaski Skyway.

Traveling south on the New Jersey Turnpike provides access to hospitals in Newark and Jersey City. The commute to Newark’s University Hospital, a major trauma center, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, Jersey City Medical Center is accessible via the Turnpike, with travel times averaging 20 to 40 minutes.

Heading north on the Garden State Parkway offers access to hospitals in Hackensack and Paramus. Hackensack University Medical Center is approximately a 30 to 45-minute drive, while Valley Hospital in Ridgewood is slightly further, taking around 40 to 60 minutes.

Local roads, such as Route 7, provide access to nearby urgent care centers and smaller clinics. However, these roads are often congested, especially during rush hour. The Pulaski Skyway, while offering a direct route to Newark, is notorious for its traffic bottlenecks, potentially adding significant time to the commute.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network:**

Public **transportation** offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid traffic. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) system provides bus and light rail services within and around Kearny.

The NJT bus routes serving Kearny include the #40 (Jersey City-Hoboken), #195 (Jersey City-Newark), and #76 (Kearny-Newark). These routes offer connections to major hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding areas. The #40 provides access to Jersey City Medical Center, while the #76 connects to University Hospital in Newark.

The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) also serves Kearny, providing a convenient link to Jersey City and Hoboken. The HBLR offers connections to PATH trains, which can transport commuters to Manhattan and other areas. The HBLR stations are generally ADA-accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor.

While public transit offers a viable option, it’s crucial to factor in travel time, which can be considerably longer than driving, especially when considering transfers and waiting times. The reliability of the system can also be affected by delays, weather conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Kearny, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand **transportation** to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need for parking or navigating traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical **transportation** services cater to individuals with disabilities or those requiring assistance. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit independently. The availability and cost of these services vary, so it's essential to research and compare options.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. Kearny has several local clinics, urgent care centers, and primary care physicians. However, access to specialized care may require travel to hospitals in Newark, Jersey City, or other surrounding areas.

The availability of healthcare providers who accept specific insurance plans is another crucial consideration. Residents should verify that their insurance is accepted at the facilities they intend to use. Language barriers can also pose a challenge for some residents, so the availability of multilingual healthcare providers is essential.

The overall healthcare access score for ZIP Code 07032 is moderately positive. While the area benefits from relatively good road access and public transit options, traffic congestion, travel times, and the need for specialized **transportation** services can impact healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides additional options, but their cost and availability should be considered. The score is further influenced by the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialists, and the acceptance of various insurance plans.

**Conclusion: Moving to Kearny and Healthcare**

For those considering **moving to Kearny**, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is vital. The area offers a mix of options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. While the location provides relatively good access to major hospitals, traffic and travel times are important considerations.

The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services provides flexibility, but the cost and convenience of these options should be carefully evaluated. Individuals with disabilities or those requiring specialized care will need to consider the availability and cost of medical transport services.

The overall health score reflects a balanced assessment, recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare access in the area. By considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require. The key to successful healthcare access in Kearny is planning, research, and understanding the available options.