07075, Wood Ridge, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07075, Wood Ridge, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.92 percent of residents in 07075 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's General Hospital with a distance of 2.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wood Ridge, NJ (ZIP Code 07075)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Wood Ridge, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07075), a town known for its suburban charm and proximity to New York City, understanding the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options to medical facilities is crucial for assessing the overall well-being of its residents. This write-up will delve into the various modes of travel available, evaluating their impact on **healthcare access** and providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for commuting to medical appointments. For anyone **moving to Wood Ridge**, this assessment provides a critical lens through which to view their future healthcare needs.

Wood Ridge, nestled in Bergen County, benefits from a strategic location. However, its relatively small size means that residents often need to travel outside of the immediate vicinity for specialized medical care. This necessitates a thorough examination of the available **transportation** infrastructure. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the Garden State Parkway, Route 17, and Interstate 80. Secondary roads like Valley Boulevard and Hackensack Street provide local connectivity. The efficiency of these routes is often dictated by traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

**Drive-Times and Road Conditions:**

Driving to healthcare appointments in Wood Ridge presents a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. The proximity to major highways offers rapid access to hospitals and specialist offices located in nearby towns like Hackensack, Ridgewood, and Paramus. However, the notorious traffic on the Garden State Parkway and Route 17 can significantly extend travel times, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. A typical drive to Hackensack University Medical Center, for example, might take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours, but could easily balloon to 45 minutes or more during peak congestion.

Road conditions also play a role. While Bergen County generally maintains its roads well, construction projects and unexpected incidents can cause delays. Navigating these challenges requires careful planning and the use of real-time traffic applications like Waze or Google Maps. Residents should factor in these variables when scheduling appointments, allowing ample time for travel. The ease of parking at healthcare facilities also varies, with some locations offering ample parking and others requiring patients to navigate parking garages or utilize valet services.

**Public Transportation Options:**

For those who prefer not to drive, or who lack access to a personal vehicle, public **transportation** offers an alternative. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) system provides bus service to and from Wood Ridge. The primary bus routes serving the area include the 161, 163, and 703. These routes connect Wood Ridge to key destinations like the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City, as well as various towns in Bergen County.

The availability of public **transportation** significantly enhances **healthcare access**, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot drive. However, several factors impact the effectiveness of these routes. Bus schedules can be infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends, potentially limiting appointment availability. The reliability of the service is also a concern, with delays caused by traffic congestion or mechanical issues.

**ADA Accessibility:**

An essential consideration for public **transportation** is its accessibility for individuals with disabilities. NJT strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating for passengers with mobility impairments. However, the accessibility of bus stops can vary. Some stops may lack ramps or curb cuts, making it difficult for wheelchair users or individuals with other disabilities to board and disembark.

The availability of accessible routes and stops is a critical factor in evaluating **healthcare access** for all residents. Improving the accessibility of public **transportation** is a crucial step in ensuring that everyone can reach their medical appointments without undue hardship. The presence of ADA-compliant features is a positive indicator of a community's commitment to inclusivity and equitable access to services.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular and offer another option for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. These services provide on-demand rides, offering convenience and flexibility. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can also significantly increase the cost.

In addition to ride-sharing, specialized medical **transportation** services are available. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering door-to-door **transportation** and assistance with mobility. Companies like Access Link, a paratransit service operated by NJT, provide transportation for individuals with disabilities who cannot use regular bus or rail services. Other private medical **transportation** providers offer similar services.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The availability of multiple **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation**, contributes to a positive "Overall Health Score" for Wood Ridge. However, the score is tempered by the challenges associated with each mode. Traffic congestion, infrequent bus schedules, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of accessible **transportation** all impact the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Wood Ridge (ZIP Code 07075) is a 7 out of 10. This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** Proximity to major highways, availability of public **transportation**, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.
* **Weaknesses:** Traffic congestion on major highways, infrequent bus schedules, and the potential cost of ride-sharing.
* **Opportunities:** Improving bus frequency, enhancing the accessibility of bus stops, and expanding the availability of affordable medical **transportation** options.
* **Threats:** Increased traffic congestion due to population growth and potential budget cuts affecting public **transportation** services.

**Moving to Wood Ridge** requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the town offers a good base for accessing healthcare, residents must plan their **transportation** accordingly. Understanding the nuances of each mode of **transportation** is essential for ensuring timely and stress-free access to medical care. By acknowledging the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, Wood Ridge can continue to improve its **healthcare access** and maintain its reputation as a desirable place to live. The town's commitment to improving its **transportation** infrastructure will directly correlate to the health and well-being of its residents.