07080, South Plainfield, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07080, South Plainfield, New Jersey is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.37 percent of residents in 07080 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital At Rahway with a distance of 6.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in South Plainfield (ZIP Code 07080)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of South Plainfield, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07080), necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This involves scrutinizing the various modes of transportation available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport. The ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate care, a crucial factor in overall community health. Considering the diverse needs of the population, including those with disabilities, elderly residents, and individuals without personal vehicles, a comprehensive evaluation is essential. This analysis provides a nuanced perspective for those considering moving to South Plainfield, offering insights into the practical realities of accessing healthcare.

The most common mode of transportation for residents is likely the personal vehicle. South Plainfield is strategically located, offering relatively easy access to major roadways. The primary thoroughfare is **U.S. Route 22**, which runs east-west and provides direct access to various medical facilities. **Interstate 287** is also easily accessible, offering connections to other major highways and facilitating travel to healthcare providers located further afield. **State Route 28** and **State Route 529** provide additional local routes, enhancing connectivity within the borough and to neighboring communities. Drive times to medical facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions, but generally, access is considered relatively convenient.

However, peak traffic hours can significantly impact drive times. Commuting during rush hour on **U.S. Route 22** and **Interstate 287** can extend travel durations considerably. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another consideration. While most facilities offer parking, the capacity can be limited, especially during peak hours. This can add to the stress and inconvenience of accessing medical care.

Public transportation options in South Plainfield are primarily provided by **NJ Transit**. Bus routes offer a viable alternative to driving, particularly for those without vehicles or those seeking to avoid traffic congestion. Several bus routes serve the area, including the **819** and the **815**, connecting South Plainfield to neighboring towns and cities. These routes provide access to hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers. The accessibility of these routes is crucial, with NJ Transit striving to provide ADA-compliant features on its buses, including ramps, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements.

The frequency of bus service is a critical factor. While NJ Transit operates on a regular schedule, the frequency of buses, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, may be less frequent, potentially impacting the convenience of accessing healthcare. The walk from a bus stop to a medical facility is another consideration, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of sidewalks and crosswalks is crucial for safe and accessible pedestrian travel.

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer another transportation alternative. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering convenience and flexibility. They are particularly useful for those who cannot drive or do not have access to public transportation at specific times. The availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and demand, so it is important to factor this into the overall health score. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation due to medical conditions. The availability of these services and the ease of scheduling appointments are critical factors in assessing healthcare access. The cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the provider and the distance traveled, and insurance coverage can impact the out-of-pocket expenses.

The location of healthcare facilities relative to South Plainfield is another important factor. Several hospitals and medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance. **Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at Rahway**, **Saint Peter's University Hospital**, and **Hackensack Meridian Health JFK Medical Center** are all accessible via the major highways. The presence of a variety of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers, ensures that residents have access to a comprehensive range of medical services. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is also a crucial factor in evaluating the overall health score.

The availability of healthcare providers who accept various insurance plans is another important consideration. The ability to access healthcare services is directly impacted by the insurance coverage of the individual. The acceptance of Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans by healthcare providers in the area is essential for ensuring that residents can afford medical care. The availability of free or low-cost clinics and other community health resources can also enhance healthcare access for individuals with limited financial resources.

Overall, the health score for commuting to healthcare in South Plainfield, NJ (ZIP Code 07080), is relatively favorable. The availability of multiple transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, provides residents with various choices for accessing healthcare. The proximity of major roadways and the presence of a variety of healthcare facilities enhance accessibility. However, factors such as traffic congestion, the frequency of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of insurance coverage can impact the ease with which residents can access medical care. Considering moving to South Plainfield requires weighing these factors.