07450, Ridgewood, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07450, Ridgewood, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.38 percent of residents in 07450 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Valley Hospital with a distance of 0.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ridgewood, NJ (ZIP Code 07450)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility for residents of Ridgewood, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07450), considering the multifaceted aspects of **transportation**. We will explore the drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, culminating in an **Overall Health Score** that reflects the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching medical care. For those **moving to Ridgewood**, this information is crucial in understanding their future healthcare journey.

Ridgewood, a vibrant suburban community in Bergen County, enjoys a reputation for its excellent schools and desirable lifestyle. However, the accessibility of healthcare, a critical component of overall well-being, requires careful consideration. This assessment examines the practicalities of reaching medical facilities, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments, considering the diverse needs of the population.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary arteries serving Ridgewood are the Garden State Parkway, Route 17, and Route 208. These highways, while providing efficient connections to major medical centers, can also be subject to heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.

For residents seeking immediate care, The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood is a primary destination. A short drive, typically under ten minutes, along East Ridgewood Avenue or Franklin Avenue, makes this facility readily accessible. Other local practices and urgent care centers are similarly within a convenient driving radius.

However, access to specialized care often necessitates travel further afield. For example, reaching Hackensack University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 17. Likewise, the drive to hospitals in New York City, such as Columbia University Irving Medical Center or NYU Langone Health, can take upwards of an hour, particularly during rush hour, requiring navigation through the Lincoln Tunnel or George Washington Bridge.

The variability in drive times highlights the importance of considering traffic patterns when planning medical appointments. Residents must factor in potential delays, especially for time-sensitive procedures or emergencies. The ease of driving, while generally good, is not without its challenges.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides public transportation options for Ridgewood residents, offering an alternative to driving. The Main Line train service connects Ridgewood to New York City, with frequent service to Penn Station. This can be a viable option for accessing medical facilities in Manhattan, though it requires a transfer and may involve a longer travel time compared to driving.

Bus routes, such as the 164, 758, and 770, also serve Ridgewood, connecting it to surrounding towns and medical centers. These routes, however, may have less frequent service and longer travel times than the train. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. NJT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses and trains, with features such as ramps, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements. However, the availability of these features and the overall accessibility of specific routes should be verified before relying on public transit for medical appointments.

Navigating public transit requires careful planning, considering schedules, potential delays, and the need for transfers. While offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative, it may not be the most convenient option for all healthcare needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: On-Demand Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Ridgewood, offering a convenient option for transportation to medical appointments. These services provide on-demand access, allowing residents to book rides through their smartphones. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments or long distances.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking, making them a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or use public transit independently.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services enhances healthcare access, providing options for individuals with diverse needs. However, the cost and availability of these services should be considered when evaluating their suitability for specific situations.

**Overall Health Score: A Comprehensive Assessment**

The **Overall Health Score** for healthcare access in Ridgewood, NJ (07450) reflects a mixed picture. The community benefits from a relatively convenient location with access to a range of healthcare providers. The presence of The Valley Hospital within the town limits provides easy access to emergency and routine care.

The score is impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion on major highways, introduces variability in travel times. While public transit offers an alternative, it may not be ideal for all healthcare needs, particularly for those with mobility limitations or requiring frequent appointments. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but the cost and accessibility of these services must be considered.

Considering these factors, the **Overall Health Score** for healthcare access in Ridgewood, NJ (07450) is a **7 out of 10**. The score reflects a generally good level of access, but with room for improvement. Residents have multiple options for reaching medical care, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning. The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services provides valuable alternatives, especially for those without access to a car or facing mobility challenges. The community’s commitment to maintaining and improving its healthcare infrastructure, including the accessibility of its public transit and the availability of specialized transportation services, will be crucial in ensuring optimal healthcare access for all residents. For those **moving to Ridgewood**, this score suggests a community with good, but not perfect, healthcare access, requiring careful consideration of individual needs and preferences.