07074, Moonachie, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07074, Moonachie, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.58 percent of residents in 07074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hudson Regional Hospital with a distance of 3.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Moonachie, NJ (ZIP Code 07074)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Moonachie, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07074), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. This score considers the multifaceted nature of transportation options, recognizing that access to quality medical care is significantly impacted by how easily individuals can reach it. The assessment delves into drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and advantages faced by those seeking healthcare in this community. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Moonachie, as it directly impacts their overall well-being.

Moonachie, a small borough nestled in the Meadowlands, presents a unique transportation landscape. While possessing a relatively compact geographical footprint, its proximity to major roadways and the New York City metropolitan area offers a variety of options for healthcare access. However, these options are not without their complexities. The "Overall Health Score" aims to unpack these complexities, providing a nuanced understanding of the transportation factors influencing healthcare access for Moonachie residents.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary roadways serving Moonachie are the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), the Garden State Parkway, and Route 46. These highways, while offering efficient travel, are often subject to heavy congestion, particularly during peak hours. This congestion directly impacts drive times to healthcare facilities.

The closest hospitals, such as Hackensack University Medical Center and Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, are typically accessible within a 15- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Traveling on the New Jersey Turnpike, with its frequent toll plazas and potential for backups, can extend this time significantly. The Garden State Parkway, while often less congested, can also experience slowdowns, especially during weekend travel. Route 46, a major artery for local traffic, offers more direct access but is prone to stop-and-go conditions.

Specialist appointments in areas like New York City, while offering a wider range of healthcare options, necessitate longer commutes. These trips, often exceeding an hour, involve navigating the Lincoln Tunnel or the George Washington Bridge, both known for their heavy traffic. The "Overall Health Score" considers these extended travel times, acknowledging the potential impact on patient well-being and the need for careful planning.

**Public Transit Options:**

Moonachie is served by the New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) bus system, providing a crucial link to surrounding communities and healthcare facilities. Several bus routes, including the 161, 163, and 165, connect Moonachie to major hospitals and medical centers. These routes offer a cost-effective alternative to driving, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles.

However, public transit also presents challenges. Bus schedules may not always align with appointment times, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, and the "Overall Health Score" considers the extent of these features within the local transit network.

The proximity to the Meadowlands Sports Complex also offers access to the Secaucus Junction train station, providing connections to the broader NJ Transit rail network. This rail access can be advantageous for reaching healthcare facilities further afield, but requires a transfer from the bus or other local transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The "Overall Health Score" recognizes the value of ride-sharing in enhancing healthcare access.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents. The availability of these services may also vary depending on the time of day and demand. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation providers, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring safe and comfortable travel to healthcare appointments.

The "Overall Health Score" assesses the availability, cost, and reliability of these specialized transportation options, acknowledging their vital role in supporting healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Brands like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local medical transport companies are key players in this sector.

**Overall Health Score: Synthesis and Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Moonachie (ZIP Code 07074) reflects a mixed picture. While the borough benefits from its proximity to major roadways and a relatively robust public transit system, challenges remain. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times to healthcare facilities. Public transit, while offering a cost-effective alternative, may involve longer travel times and potential scheduling conflicts.

Ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provide valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors. The "Overall Health Score" considers these factors, providing a balanced assessment of the transportation landscape.

For individuals considering moving to Moonachie, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. The availability of healthcare access is a key component of overall well-being. Potential residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences, considering the trade-offs between driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving transportation landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. The borough's commitment to supporting public transit, promoting ride-sharing, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation services will directly impact the "Overall Health Score" and the well-being of its residents. This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Moonachie, providing valuable insights for residents, prospective movers, and healthcare providers alike.