07424, Little Falls, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07424, Little Falls, New Jersey is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.37 percent of residents in 07424 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chilton Medical Center with a distance of 7.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Little Falls, NJ (ZIP Code 07424)

This analysis provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents of Little Falls, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07424), focusing on the critical element of **healthcare access** through various **transportation** modalities. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to their well-being, influencing everything from preventative care to emergency response. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, offering a nuanced perspective for those considering **moving to Little Falls**.

The geography of Little Falls, nestled in Passaic County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a suburban feel, it’s also bordered by major roadways and natural features that impact transportation. The overall health score is not a single number, but rather a synthesis of factors, providing a holistic understanding of healthcare accessibility.

**Driving: The Primary Mode**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transport. Accessing healthcare in Little Falls often involves navigating a network of roads, with drive times significantly impacting **healthcare access**. The proximity to major highways like Interstate 80 (I-80) and the Garden State Parkway (GSP) offers both advantages and disadvantages.

Traveling east on I-80 provides relatively quick access to hospitals in Paterson and Hackensack, but rush hour congestion can drastically increase commute times. The GSP offers a more direct route south, but can also be heavily trafficked. Local roads, such as Main Street, Long Hill Road, and the scenic but winding Rifle Camp Road, connect residential areas to these major arteries.

Drive times to nearby hospitals are crucial. St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, a major regional facility, is typically a 15-25 minute drive, depending on traffic. Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains, a well-regarded community hospital, is closer, often reachable within 10-15 minutes. Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, a more distant option, could take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.

**Public Transportation: A Limited but Viable Option**

Public transportation, while less prevalent in Little Falls than in more urban areas, offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service throughout the area, connecting Little Falls to surrounding towns and cities, thereby influencing **healthcare access**.

The primary bus routes serving Little Falls include the 197, 709, and 748. The 197 route provides express service to New York City, but also stops at the Willowbrook Mall, a significant hub for connecting to other bus routes and providing access to healthcare facilities in the area. The 709 route travels through Little Falls, connecting to Paterson and Wayne, providing access to various medical offices and hospitals. The 748 route provides local service within the town and to neighboring areas.

Accessibility is a key consideration. All NJ Transit buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may limit **healthcare access** for some residents.

The Little Falls Train Station, served by NJ Transit's Montclair-Boonton Line, offers another option. While not directly serving hospitals, the train provides access to the larger transit network, including connections to New York City and other areas with extensive healthcare options. However, the train station is not within walking distance of all residents, requiring additional local transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular, particularly for those who may not have access to a car or prefer not to drive. These services can be a convenient option for reaching medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and potentially reducing the stress associated with driving and parking.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Little Falls is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5-15 minutes. However, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent trips. During peak hours or inclement weather, surge pricing can significantly increase the cost of a ride.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized option for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services typically provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including Ambulnz, and others, offering services to and from medical appointments.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for Little Falls considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average time to reach key hospitals and medical facilities during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, reliability, and ADA accessibility of bus and train services.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The ease of accessing ride-sharing services and the associated costs.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and affordability of specialized medical transport services.
* **Road Conditions and Traffic Congestion:** The impact of traffic on drive times and the overall ease of travel.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies and Urgent Care Facilities:** The convenience of accessing essential healthcare services within the community.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective on Healthcare Access**

Little Falls, NJ (ZIP Code 07424) offers a generally favorable environment for **healthcare access**. The proximity to major hospitals and the availability of multiple transportation options contribute to a positive score. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the limitations of public transportation should be considered.

For those **moving to Little Falls**, the "Overall Health Score" suggests a need for careful planning. Residents should consider their individual transportation needs, including their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their potential need for ride-sharing or medical transport.

The availability of diverse transportation options, including the potential for ride-sharing and medical transport, helps mitigate some of the challenges. While the area is not as densely served by public transit as more urban areas, the existing bus and train services provide viable alternatives.

The overall health score for Little Falls reflects a balance between the convenience of suburban living and the accessibility of healthcare services. By understanding the nuances of transportation options, residents can proactively manage their healthcare needs and maintain their well-being. The ability to navigate the roads, utilize public transit, and leverage alternative transportation services is a key factor in ensuring **healthcare access** and a healthy lifestyle in Little Falls.