07624, Closter, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07624, Closter, New Jersey is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.22 percent of residents in 07624 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical with a distance of 3.05 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Closter, NJ (ZIP Code 07624)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Closter, New Jersey (ZIP code 07624) requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical component of this assessment lies in evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Closter.

The cornerstone of transportation in Closter, as in most suburban areas, is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare providers in and around the area are a significant factor. The primary thoroughfare for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Closter is the Garden State Parkway. Traffic conditions on the Parkway, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Residents can also utilize Route 9W, a north-south artery that provides access to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns.

For routine appointments, local clinics and practices within Closter itself offer convenient options. These facilities, however, may not provide the full spectrum of specialized medical services. Thus, residents often need to travel to larger hospitals and specialist offices located further afield.

The closest major hospitals to Closter are Englewood Hospital and Medical Center in Englewood and Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack. Reaching Englewood Hospital typically involves a drive of approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Hackensack University Medical Center, slightly further, may require a 25-40 minute drive, again, contingent upon traffic flow. These drive times underscore the importance of considering potential delays when scheduling appointments, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation offers an alternative, although its convenience and efficiency can vary. The primary public transit option for Closter residents is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 186, which provides service to and from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. While this route is primarily geared towards commuters, it can be utilized to access healthcare facilities in New York City, though the travel time and transfer requirements should be carefully considered.

The 751 bus also offers a local option, connecting Closter with neighboring towns and potentially providing access to healthcare facilities within those areas. ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit users. NJT buses are generally equipped with features such as ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the reliability of service can vary, potentially posing challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular transportation alternatives. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for accessing healthcare appointments, especially for short distances or when public transit options are limited. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to the needs of patients requiring specialized assistance. These services, often provided by companies such as American Medical Response (AMR) or local private ambulance companies, offer non-emergency medical transport for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Closter is a multifaceted assessment. While the town itself offers some local healthcare options, residents often rely on facilities located in neighboring towns or cities. The drive times to these facilities can vary significantly, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location of the healthcare provider. Public transit offers an alternative, but its convenience and accessibility may be limited for some residents. Ride-sharing services provide another option, but their availability and cost can be factors. Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for those with specific needs.

Considering these factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in Closter can be considered moderate. The availability of transportation options is reasonable, but the reliance on travel to access a wider range of healthcare services can present challenges. This is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Closter, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions or mobility limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Closter, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Researching the specific healthcare providers they will need to access, evaluating the available transportation options, and considering the potential costs and time commitments associated with each mode of transportation is vital. Understanding the local healthcare landscape and the ease of access to medical services will empower prospective residents to make informed decisions and ensure their healthcare needs can be met effectively.