07092, Mountainside, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07092, Mountainside, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.25 percent of residents in 07092 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital At Rahway with a distance of 5.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Mountainside (07092)

Mountainside, New Jersey, a charming borough nestled in Union County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 07092, assesses the overall health score by examining the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available for residents seeking medical attention. Understanding the practicalities of getting to appointments is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Mountainside**, as it directly impacts their **healthcare access** and overall well-being.

The primary mode of transport for most Mountainside residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town is strategically positioned with access to several key roadways. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities located in surrounding towns like Westfield, Clark, and Cranford. However, during peak hours, this highway can become congested, significantly increasing travel times and potentially delaying critical medical attention.

Another vital route is Route 22, a commercial thoroughfare that runs east-west, providing access to a variety of medical practices and hospitals. Route 22, while offering more direct access to some facilities, is also prone to heavy traffic, particularly near shopping centers and intersections. Smaller local roads, such as Mountain Avenue and New Providence Road, offer alternative routes, but these are often slower and can be subject to local traffic patterns and delays.

The drive times to various healthcare providers are a critical factor. A routine check-up at a primary care physician in Westfield might take 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, a visit to a specialist in Summit could easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, especially during rush hour. Emergency situations demand even faster response times. The closest emergency room, at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 22 or the Garden State Parkway, depending on traffic.

Public **transportation** options in Mountainside, while available, present a less convenient alternative. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) operates bus routes that serve the area, connecting residents to larger towns and cities with more extensive healthcare facilities. The 114 bus route, for example, travels through Mountainside and provides access to Westfield and Cranford, where several medical offices and clinics are located.

However, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can pose a significant challenge for those needing to schedule appointments outside of typical working hours. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, is crucial. While NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, the reliability of these features and the overall accessibility of bus stops in Mountainside should be carefully considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options. These services provide on-demand rides to healthcare facilities, potentially offering a more convenient alternative to public **transportation** or driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, and they may not always be readily available, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like MedStar and First Transit provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance. However, these services typically require advance booking and may come with associated costs.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Mountainside, considering these **transportation** factors, is moderately positive. While residents have access to a variety of healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can impact the timeliness of appointments. Public **transportation** options exist but are limited in frequency and may not be ideal for all residents. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer additional options but come with their own set of considerations.

For individuals **moving to Mountainside**, a careful assessment of their individual healthcare needs and **transportation** preferences is crucial. Those who rely on public **transportation** or have mobility issues should thoroughly investigate the accessibility and reliability of NJ Transit bus routes and medical **transportation** services. Residents who drive should be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.

Ultimately, the overall health score in Mountainside is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the town offers a relatively good quality of life and access to healthcare, the **transportation** infrastructure presents both advantages and disadvantages. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for residents to effectively navigate the **healthcare access** landscape and ensure their well-being. The proximity of healthcare facilities is a plus, but the efficiency of getting there is a critical consideration when evaluating the overall health score for this charming Union County borough.