07506, Hawthorne, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07506, Hawthorne, New Jersey is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.46 percent of residents in 07506 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Valley Hospital with a distance of 3.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07506 (Hawthorne, NJ)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 07506, Hawthorne, NJ, reflects a complex interplay of factors. Chief among these is the accessibility of healthcare services, a critical component directly impacted by the available transportation options. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists is paramount to assessing their overall well-being. This analysis delves into the specific transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a nuanced perspective on healthcare access within this suburban community.

Hawthorne, nestled in Passaic County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a relatively quiet residential environment, its proximity to major roadways and the bustling metropolitan area of New York City influences healthcare access. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Route 208 and Route 20, providing direct links to surrounding towns and medical facilities. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south thoroughfare, is also readily accessible, offering further options, but can be prone to congestion, particularly during peak hours. The efficiency of these roadways, and the time it takes to reach healthcare providers, is a significant determinant of the health score.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the specific destination and the time of day. Residents seeking primary care physicians within Hawthorne itself generally enjoy relatively short commutes, often within 5-10 minutes. However, accessing specialized care or hospitals, such as St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson or Hackensack University Medical Center, can significantly increase travel time. During rush hour, the journey to Paterson via Route 20 can stretch to 20-30 minutes, and the trip to Hackensack via the Garden State Parkway can easily exceed 45 minutes. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent medical attention.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its effectiveness is limited. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service within and around Hawthorne. The primary routes serving the area include the 161, 171, and 709 buses. These routes connect Hawthorne to Paterson, Ridgewood, and other surrounding communities, offering access to healthcare facilities along the way. However, the frequency of these buses can be a concern, particularly during off-peak hours. Furthermore, the routes might not directly serve all medical facilities, necessitating transfers and increasing travel time.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor for those with disabilities. NJT strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability and reliability of these features should be verified. The presence of elevators and ramps at bus stops is not guaranteed, and the overall accessibility of public transit can vary. This can significantly impact the healthcare access of residents with mobility challenges, potentially leading to delays in receiving care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Hawthorne. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. They provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for transfers and offering a more flexible schedule. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources. The availability of ride-sharing services also fluctuates, with wait times potentially increasing during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services are also available for those with specific needs. Companies like Care Ride, and MedTrans, provide specialized transportation for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transport. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers. However, these services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant factor, often not covered by standard insurance plans.

The overall health score for Hawthorne residents is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers within the ZIP code itself significantly enhances healthcare access. Proximity to these facilities reduces travel time and increases the likelihood of receiving timely medical attention. However, the concentration of healthcare providers can vary, and residents may need to travel outside of Hawthorne to access specific specialists or services.

The decision of moving to Hawthorne, for many, is a balance of lifestyle and practicality. The availability of transportation options is a critical factor in that decision. While Hawthorne offers a desirable residential environment, the accessibility of healthcare is a key consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the available transportation options and their ability to access healthcare facilities.

The overall health score for Hawthorne, ZIP Code 07506, is therefore a nuanced assessment. While the community benefits from its suburban setting and access to major roadways, the reliance on driving and the limitations of public transit can create barriers to healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers alternative options, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors. The overall health score is therefore contingent on individual circumstances, including mobility, financial resources, and the specific healthcare needs of the resident. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is essential for maintaining good health and well-being in this community.