07438, Oak Ridge, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07438, Oak Ridge, New Jersey is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.59 percent of residents in 07438 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Clare's Hospital/ Denville Campus with a distance of 9.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oak Ridge, NJ (ZIP Code 07438)

The overall health score for residents of Oak Ridge, New Jersey (ZIP code 07438), considering their access to healthcare, hinges significantly on transportation infrastructure and available options. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment, analyzing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to this Morris County community.

Oak Ridge, a predominantly suburban area, presents a unique challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its location necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. The score will reflect the ease, or difficulty, with which residents can reach necessary medical services. The analysis will consider various factors, including the availability of transportation options, the time required to reach healthcare facilities, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

For many Oak Ridge residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this mode is heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The primary routes serving the area are crucial to understanding drive times.

Accessing healthcare often involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. The primary artery is **New Jersey Route 23**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traveling south on Route 23 offers access to hospitals and medical centers in Wayne and Pompton Plains. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times, impacting the overall health score.

Further east, **Interstate 287** provides another route, offering access to healthcare facilities in Morristown and surrounding areas. The drive, while potentially faster than Route 23 during certain times, may involve navigating tolls and increased traffic volume. Local roads such as **Oak Ridge Road** and **Green Pond Road** offer alternative routes, but these often involve slower speeds and potential delays due to traffic signals and local congestion.

The proximity of specific healthcare facilities significantly impacts the overall score. The drive time to the closest urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices is a critical factor. Longer drive times, particularly in emergencies, can negatively affect health outcomes and contribute to a lower overall score. The availability of parking at these facilities also plays a role, with limited parking potentially adding to the stress and inconvenience of seeking medical care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Oak Ridge are limited, posing a challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The availability and frequency of bus routes directly influence the overall health score for residents who rely on public transportation.

The **New Jersey Transit (NJT)** system serves the broader area, but the routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for healthcare access within Oak Ridge. Bus routes, if available, may require transfers and extended travel times, making them less convenient for medical appointments, especially for those with mobility issues.

The **NJ Transit Route 197** provides service in the area, but its frequency and coverage might not provide sufficient access to healthcare facilities. The route may not directly serve hospitals or medical centers, necessitating a transfer to another bus or a significant walk.

The accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant buses with ramps and designated seating are essential. The availability of accessible routes and stops within a reasonable distance of residents' homes and healthcare facilities is crucial for improving the overall health score.

The lack of frequent and convenient public transit options significantly lowers the overall health score for residents who do not have access to a car. The limited options can create barriers to accessing timely medical care, potentially impacting health outcomes.

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

Ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport offer alternative solutions, though their availability and cost impact the overall health score. These options can bridge the gap when public transit is limited or personal vehicles are unavailable.

**Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the area, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies, can be a concern. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as **Medicaid-approved transportation providers** and specialized ambulance services, are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. The availability of these services, their response times, and the cost of transportation are critical factors.

The reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services directly impacts the overall health score. The ability to secure transportation quickly and affordably is crucial for timely access to medical care. The lack of readily available and affordable options can negatively affect health outcomes and reduce the overall score.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access in the Vicinity**

The proximity of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics, is a crucial determinant of the overall health score. The availability of a comprehensive range of medical services within a reasonable travel distance is essential for ensuring that residents can access the care they need.

The closest hospitals to Oak Ridge, such as **Saint Joseph's Wayne Hospital** and **Morristown Medical Center**, offer comprehensive medical services. However, the drive times to these facilities can vary depending on traffic conditions. The availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, within a reasonable distance is also a factor.

The availability of urgent care centers in the vicinity offers a convenient option for non-emergency medical needs. These centers provide a more accessible alternative to emergency rooms for treating minor illnesses and injuries.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of primary care physicians and specialists in the area. The ability to schedule appointments promptly and access a full range of medical services is essential for maintaining good health.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

The accessibility of healthcare facilities and transportation options for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. ADA compliance is essential for ensuring that all residents can access the medical care they need.

The availability of accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and restrooms at healthcare facilities is crucial. The ability to navigate these facilities easily and comfortably is essential for individuals with mobility limitations.

The availability of accessible transportation options, including public transit and medical transport services, is also a critical factor. The ability to secure transportation that meets the needs of individuals with disabilities is essential for ensuring that they can access medical care.

The overall health score is significantly impacted by the level of ADA compliance in the area. The ability to provide accessible healthcare services and transportation options is essential for ensuring that all residents can maintain their health and well-being.

**Conclusion: Assessing the Overall Health Score**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare access, the overall health score for residents of Oak Ridge, NJ (ZIP code 07438) is moderate. While the area offers a pleasant suburban lifestyle, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles present challenges to healthcare access.

The score is negatively impacted by the potential for long drive times, especially during peak hours, and the lack of readily available public transportation. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some relief, but the cost and reliability of these options can be a concern.

The overall health score can be improved by increasing public transit options, improving road infrastructure to reduce congestion, and promoting the availability of affordable and reliable ride-sharing and medical transport services. Furthermore, ensuring that all healthcare facilities and transportation options are ADA compliant is crucial for improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents can access the medical care they need. For those moving to Oak Ridge, careful consideration of transportation needs and the proximity of healthcare facilities is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.