07422, Highland Lakes, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07422, Highland Lakes, New Jersey is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.53 percent of residents in 07422 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newton Medical Center with a distance of 17.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Highland Lakes, NJ (ZIP Code 07422)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Highland Lakes, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07422) requires a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare. A critical component of this assessment is the ease and efficiency with which residents can *transport* themselves to medical facilities. This write-up delves into the various *transportation* options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of *healthcare access* for those considering *moving to Highland Lakes*.

The primary factor influencing *healthcare access* in Highland Lakes is its relative remoteness. Nestled within the rolling hills of Sussex County, the community is largely residential, with limited commercial development within its immediate borders. This geographic isolation necessitates reliance on *transportation* to reach most medical providers, significantly impacting the overall health score.

For those who prefer to drive, the commute to healthcare facilities typically involves navigating a network of local roads and state highways. The most direct route to larger hospitals often involves utilizing Route 23, a major north-south artery. Depending on the specific destination and time of day, drive times on Route 23 can vary considerably. Peak traffic hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times, potentially hindering timely *healthcare access*.

Alternatively, residents might utilize local roads such as Highland Lake Road and Warwick Turnpike to connect to other major routes like Route 517. These roads offer alternative pathways, potentially avoiding congestion on Route 23, but they can be winding and slower, especially during inclement weather. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also impact *transportation* reliability and safety, further affecting *healthcare access*.

The nearest major hospitals are located in neighboring towns. St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, NJ, is approximately a 45-minute drive via Route 23, while Morristown Medical Center in Morristown, NJ, is about an hour's drive, depending on traffic. These drive times underscore the importance of reliable *transportation* for residents of Highland Lakes, particularly in emergency situations.

Public transit options in the area are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. NJ Transit operates bus routes that serve some areas of Sussex County, but these routes often have limited frequency and coverage, especially in the more rural areas like Highland Lakes. Route 197 provides service along Route 23, but its frequency and stops are not ideal for *healthcare access*.

The accessibility of public transit is further impacted by its ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. While NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, the availability of accessible buses and stations may vary, potentially creating barriers for individuals with mobility impairments. This is an important consideration for assessing the overall health score, as it directly affects *healthcare access* for a vulnerable segment of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another *transportation* alternative. However, the availability of these services in Highland Lakes can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, a common practice during periods of high demand, can also make ride-sharing an expensive option, potentially deterring residents from seeking necessary medical care.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are available in the area. Companies like Atlantic Ambulance and Care Ambulance offer non-emergency medical *transportation* for appointments and other healthcare needs. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit due to medical conditions or disabilities. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier to *healthcare access* for some residents.

The overall health score for Highland Lakes is directly influenced by the challenges associated with *healthcare access*. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical *transportation* all contribute to a lower score. This is particularly true for those with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those without access to a personal vehicle.

The community's remoteness and the need for significant travel times to reach major medical facilities also impact the overall health score. This is especially concerning in emergency situations, where every minute counts. The availability of rapid *transportation* to a hospital or urgent care facility is a critical factor in determining health outcomes.

Considering *moving to Highland Lakes* requires a thorough evaluation of these *transportation* and *healthcare access* challenges. Prospective residents should factor in the potential for longer travel times to medical appointments, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited public transit options when making their decision.

Furthermore, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those requiring regular medical care should carefully assess the available *transportation* options and their associated costs. The ability to reliably and affordably access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Highland Lakes, NJ (ZIP Code 07422) is somewhat diminished by the challenges associated with *transportation* to healthcare facilities. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the geographic isolation and limited *transportation* options present significant hurdles to *healthcare access*. The availability and affordability of *transportation* services, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, are critical factors in determining the overall health and well-being of the community. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, or subsidized medical *transportation* could significantly improve the overall health score and make Highland Lakes a more accessible and healthier place to live.