07465, Wanaque, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07465, Wanaque, New Jersey is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.54 percent of residents in 07465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chilton Medical Center with a distance of 6.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wanaque, NJ (ZIP Code 07465)

Wanaque, New Jersey, nestled in the heart of Passaic County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and natural beauty, attracting those seeking a slower pace of life. However, before making the move to Wanaque, prospective residents must consider a critical factor: healthcare access. This comprehensive analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for commuting to healthcare facilities from the 07465 ZIP code, encompassing transportation options, drive times, and accessibility considerations.

The “Overall Health Score” considers various elements, including the efficiency of transportation, the proximity of medical facilities, and the availability of alternative transport modes. A higher score reflects superior healthcare access, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. This evaluation aims to empower individuals and families to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs when considering moving to Wanaque.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Primary Transportation Mode**

For many residents of Wanaque, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The network of highways and local roads plays a crucial role in determining drive times and overall accessibility. Key arteries include the sprawling Route 287, which provides access to major medical centers in the surrounding areas. The winding Route 287 can be prone to congestion, especially during peak hours, potentially extending travel times significantly.

Route 287 connects to the Garden State Parkway, another major highway, offering access to a broader range of healthcare facilities further south. Route 287 and the Garden State Parkway can be congested during rush hour, especially around the exits for Paramus and Clifton. Route 287 also provides access to Route 208, which runs north-south, connecting Wanaque to other towns and cities.

Local roads such as Ringwood Avenue and Greenwood Lake Turnpike serve as essential connectors, facilitating travel within Wanaque and to neighboring communities. These roads are often subject to traffic delays during peak hours. The efficiency of these routes directly impacts the overall health score, as timely access to medical care is paramount.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from Wanaque vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For example, a trip to St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, a major regional hospital, can take approximately 30-45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains is closer, typically a 15-20 minute drive. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within Wanaque or nearby towns like Ringwood and Oakland offer quicker access, with drive times often under 10-15 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

While automobiles dominate transportation, public transit offers a viable alternative, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer to avoid driving. The availability and efficiency of public transit significantly influence the “Overall Health Score.”

NJ Transit provides bus service to and from Wanaque, offering connections to neighboring towns and cities. The primary bus route serving Wanaque is the 197, which travels from the Willowbrook Mall in Wayne, through Wanaque, and on to Ringwood. The 197 bus provides access to healthcare facilities along its route, including urgent care centers and doctor's offices.

The 197 bus route is not always convenient for accessing all medical facilities, as it primarily serves a north-south corridor. Travel times on the bus can be longer than driving, especially during peak hours, due to traffic and multiple stops. However, the 197 bus offers a cost-effective option for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. NJ Transit buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of these features and the reliability of the service can vary.

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

Ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport providers offer additional options for accessing healthcare. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals who lack personal transportation or require assistance with mobility.

Uber and Lyft operate in the Wanaque area, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments and facilities. Ride-sharing services offer convenience and flexibility, allowing individuals to schedule rides at their convenience. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transport companies specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those who require wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with mobility. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring safe and comfortable travel to medical appointments. Several medical transport brands serve the Wanaque area, including Senior Transportation Services and MedRide.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score**

The “Overall Health Score” for commuting to healthcare in Wanaque, NJ (07465) is moderate. While the area offers a range of healthcare facilities, transportation challenges exist. The reliance on automobiles, potential traffic congestion on major highways, and limited public transit options can impact access to care.

Drive times to major hospitals can be significant, especially during peak hours. Public transit provides a viable alternative, but routes are limited and travel times can be longer. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer additional options, but availability and cost can vary.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the “Overall Health Score” and enhance healthcare access for Wanaque residents, several measures could be considered. These include:

* **Improving public transit:** Expanding bus routes and increasing service frequency, particularly during peak hours, would improve accessibility.
* **Enhancing road infrastructure:** Addressing traffic bottlenecks and improving road conditions would reduce drive times.
* **Promoting ride-sharing and medical transport:** Encouraging the use of these services and providing financial assistance for those in need would improve access.
* **Expanding healthcare facilities:** Increasing the number of clinics and urgent care centers within Wanaque would reduce travel times.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Wanaque can strive to provide its residents with superior healthcare access, making it an even more attractive place to live. The decision to move to Wanaque should consider the healthcare access challenges and the available transportation options.