07072, Carlstadt, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07072, Carlstadt, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.64 percent of residents in 07072 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hudson Regional Hospital with a distance of 3.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07072 (Carlstadt, NJ)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Carlstadt, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07072), requires a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, encompassing various transportation options and their associated challenges. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Carlstadt, highlighting the realities of navigating the area's transportation landscape to receive necessary medical care.

The fundamental challenge lies in the fact that Carlstadt is a suburban community, heavily reliant on personal vehicles for daily commutes. This dependence significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals without cars, those with mobility limitations, or those who prefer not to drive. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), the Garden State Parkway, and Route 17. These highways, while providing relatively fast access to major medical centers in surrounding areas, can be subject to heavy congestion, especially during peak hours, impacting drive times and increasing stress.

For residents in need of specialized care, the proximity to major hospitals becomes paramount. The Hackensack University Medical Center, a leading regional facility, is a significant draw for many residents. Accessing it from Carlstadt typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey usually involves navigating Route 17 or the New Jersey Turnpike, which can quickly become a frustrating experience during rush hour. Other hospitals, like Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, are also within a reasonable driving distance, offering alternative options for specialized medical needs.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complex picture. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) system offers bus routes that serve Carlstadt, but their frequency and coverage can be limited. The primary bus routes serving the area are the 161 and 76, providing connections to New York City and other towns in Bergen County. However, these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers and potentially increasing travel time. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. While NJT strives to provide accessible services, the reliability of elevators and ramps can vary, and careful planning is essential.

The 161 bus route, in particular, offers a connection to the Secaucus Junction train station, which provides access to the broader regional rail network. This option, while potentially offering faster travel times to destinations like Newark, requires a transfer and may not be ideal for individuals with mobility limitations or those seeking immediate medical attention. The 76 bus route is a more local option, connecting Carlstadt to surrounding towns like Lyndhurst and Rutherford, where some medical offices and urgent care centers are located.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transportation. These services are readily available in the area, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits. Moreover, the availability of ride-sharing services can be affected by peak demand and weather conditions, potentially leading to delays.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges or those requiring specialized assistance, are another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility devices. These services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation independently. However, it is crucial to research the specific services offered by each company, including their coverage area, pricing, and availability, to ensure they meet individual needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Carlstadt, therefore, presents a mixed bag. While the proximity to major hospitals is a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

For those considering moving to Carlstadt, understanding these nuances is crucial. Individuals who are comfortable driving and have access to a car will likely find healthcare access relatively straightforward. However, those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations will need to carefully plan their trips and consider the potential for delays and inconveniences.

The best approach is to research the specific healthcare providers and facilities that are most relevant to individual needs. This research should include evaluating the accessibility of these facilities via various transportation modes, including drive times, bus routes, and the availability of ride-sharing services.

Furthermore, it is essential to factor in the potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The New Jersey Turnpike and Route 17 are notorious for heavy traffic, which can significantly impact drive times and add to the stress of traveling to medical appointments.

Finally, it is essential to consider the cost of healthcare access. This includes not only the cost of medical services but also the cost of transportation, such as gas, tolls, ride-sharing fares, and medical transportation services.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure they can receive the medical care they need in a timely and efficient manner. This comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape is key to understanding the overall health score for residents of Carlstadt, NJ.