07420, Haskell, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07420, Haskell, New Jersey is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.68 percent of residents in 07420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chilton Medical Center with a distance of 5.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Haskell, NJ (ZIP Code 07420)

Haskell, New Jersey, nestled within the embrace of the Ramapo Mountains, presents a unique landscape for its residents. While offering a tranquil suburban experience, the community’s location necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options when assessing **healthcare access**. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" analysis, evaluating the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities from the 07420 ZIP code. This is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Haskell**, as understanding these factors is critical for maintaining good health.

The "Overall Health Score" considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each mode is assessed based on drive times, route availability, accessibility features, and overall reliability. The score reflects the combined ease of access, taking into account both the distance to healthcare facilities and the practical challenges of reaching them.

**Personal Vehicle Accessibility:**

The primary mode of transportation for Haskell residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town is strategically positioned near several major roadways, providing relatively quick access to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns. The primary arteries for travel are Route 287, Route 23, and Route 28.

Traveling south on Route 287, residents can reach St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson within approximately 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including specialized care. Heading north on Route 287, the distance increases, with Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains reachable in about 20-35 minutes. This route, however, is often subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Route 23, a significant north-south thoroughfare, provides access to facilities like Wayne General Hospital in Wayne, typically a 20-30-minute drive. Route 28, while not a major highway, serves as a crucial connector, linking Haskell to nearby towns and healthcare providers.

While the personal vehicle offers flexibility and direct routes, it is susceptible to traffic delays, particularly during rush hour. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges this by factoring in the potential for increased travel times and the associated stress.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Haskell are limited but still present. The New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) bus system provides some accessibility, although the routes are not as extensive as in more urban areas. The primary bus route serving Haskell is the #197, which runs between the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City and the Willowbrook Mall in Wayne. This route, while offering a direct link to New York City, does not directly serve many healthcare facilities.

For those relying on public transit to access healthcare, transfers are often required. A transfer from the #197 to another bus route or to a light rail system, such as the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, is often necessary to reach hospitals or clinics. This increases travel time and complexity.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on NJ Transit buses is generally good. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and designated seating areas are available for passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible features does not negate the potential for delays and the inconvenience of transfers. The "Overall Health Score" considers the limitations of public transit in Haskell, recognizing the potential for longer travel times and reduced convenience compared to personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the Haskell area. These services provide a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, especially for those who do not drive or prefer not to. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for short trips to local clinics or urgent care facilities.

However, ride-sharing costs can vary depending on demand and distance. While convenient, the expense may be a barrier for some individuals. The "Overall Health Score" considers the cost factor when evaluating the overall accessibility of ride-sharing services.

Specialized medical transport services are also available for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, often provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local private ambulance companies, offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Medical transport services are typically reserved for those with specific medical needs and often require pre-booking. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the vital role of these services for those who need them.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Drive Times:**

To provide a more concrete assessment, let's examine drive times to specific healthcare facilities. As mentioned, St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson is a major regional hospital, accessible via Route 287 in about 25-40 minutes. Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains, reached via Route 287, takes approximately 20-35 minutes. Wayne General Hospital, accessible via Route 23, is typically a 20-30-minute drive.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located in nearby towns, such as Ringwood and West Milford, offer more immediate access to care. Drive times to these facilities range from 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. These local options are crucial for addressing minor medical needs and reducing the burden on larger hospitals.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Haskell, NJ (07420) is moderately positive. The accessibility provided by personal vehicles is the strongest factor. The availability of ride-sharing services adds another layer of convenience. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours slightly diminish the score.

For individuals **moving to Haskell**, it's crucial to consider the following recommendations:

* **Prioritize car ownership:** A personal vehicle is the most reliable and efficient mode of transportation for accessing healthcare.
* **Plan for traffic:** Factor in potential delays, especially during rush hour, when scheduling appointments.
* **Explore ride-sharing options:** Utilize ride-sharing services for short trips or when a personal vehicle is unavailable.
* **Familiarize yourself with public transit:** Understand the bus routes and transfer options, although public transit may not be the primary mode of transport.
* **Research local clinics and urgent care facilities:** Identify nearby facilities for immediate medical needs.
* **Consider medical transport services:** If mobility limitations exist, research available medical transport providers.

In conclusion, while Haskell offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, the geographical location requires careful planning regarding healthcare access. By understanding the available transportation options and proactively planning for medical needs, residents can maintain good health and well-being. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for a balanced approach, combining the benefits of personal vehicles with the flexibility of ride-sharing and the support of specialized medical transport services.