07606, South Hackensack, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07606, South Hackensack, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.13 percent of residents in 07606 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack University Medical Group Pc with a distance of 1.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07606 (South Hackensack, NJ)

The health and well-being of residents in South Hackensack, New Jersey (ZIP code 07606), are inextricably linked to their ability to access healthcare. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the complexities of commuting to medical facilities, examining the available modes of transportation and their impact on healthcare access. This analysis is crucial for individuals considering moving to South Hackensack, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

South Hackensack, a small borough nestled in Bergen County, presents a unique challenge. While geographically compact, its proximity to major roadways and the New York City metropolitan area creates a dynamic landscape for transportation and healthcare access. The score will assess the efficiency, affordability, and accessibility of various transportation options, offering a comprehensive picture of the healthcare commute experience.

**Driving: The Dominant Player**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The strategic location of South Hackensack, close to major arteries, facilitates relatively quick access to a variety of medical facilities. The Garden State Parkway, a vital north-south route, provides convenient access to hospitals and medical centers in surrounding towns like Hackensack, Paramus, and Ridgewood. The New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) is also accessible, offering another avenue for reaching healthcare providers further afield.

Local roads, such as Route 46 and Route 17, are critical for accessing nearby clinics and specialists. However, these roads are often congested, especially during peak hours. The drive-time to a medical facility can vary significantly depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and the specific destination. Expect delays during morning and evening commutes, potentially adding significant stress and inconvenience to the healthcare journey.

Navigating these roadways requires careful planning. Consider the use of real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to identify the most efficient routes. Parking availability at healthcare facilities can also be a factor, particularly in urban areas. Factor in parking costs and potential delays when planning your trip.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in South Hackensack, while present, offers limited options for healthcare access. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service within the borough and to surrounding areas. Several bus routes, including the 161, 162, and 163, traverse the area, offering connections to major transportation hubs and healthcare facilities.

However, the frequency of these bus routes can be a concern, especially during off-peak hours. Waiting times can be lengthy, and the travel time to healthcare appointments can be significantly extended compared to driving. The reliability of the bus service can also be affected by traffic and weather conditions, adding to the uncertainty.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of NJ Transit buses is an important consideration. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system with mobility limitations should be carefully assessed.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Niche Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, eliminating the need to navigate traffic or find parking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and First Transit, are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. They are particularly valuable for individuals with disabilities or those who require specialized medical care. However, these services may require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The proximity of healthcare facilities to South Hackensack is a significant advantage. Hackensack University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is located just a short drive away. Numerous other hospitals, specialist clinics, and primary care physicians are also readily accessible in the surrounding towns.

The availability of healthcare providers is another critical factor. The number of doctors, specialists, and other healthcare professionals in the area, as well as their acceptance of various insurance plans, should be carefully considered. Researching the availability of specific medical services, such as mental health care, physical therapy, and specialized treatments, is essential.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in South Hackensack (07606) is moderately positive. While driving offers the most convenient access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and parking challenges can be significant drawbacks. Public transportation provides a viable, though limited, alternative, with potential delays and accessibility concerns. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer niche solutions for specific needs, but their cost and availability should be considered.

For individuals considering moving to South Hackensack, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation preferences is crucial. Evaluate the frequency of medical appointments, the distance to healthcare providers, and the availability of various transportation options. Consider the potential impact of traffic congestion, public transit schedules, and the cost of ride-sharing services.

South Hackensack's location offers good healthcare access, but careful planning is essential to ensure efficient and stress-free transportation to medical appointments. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation mode, combined with a clear understanding of your healthcare needs, will allow you to navigate the healthcare commute effectively and maintain your overall health and well-being.