07642, Hillsdale, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07642, Hillsdale, New Jersey is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.34 percent of residents in 07642 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 Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical with a distance of 1.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Hillsdale, NJ (ZIP Code 07642)

The overall health score for residents of Hillsdale, New Jersey (ZIP code 07642), considering commute times to healthcare facilities, presents a nuanced picture. While the suburban setting offers a generally comfortable lifestyle, the reality of accessing medical care is intricately tied to transportation options, which significantly impact the ease and speed of reaching necessary services. This write-up delves into the specifics of these transportation modalities, analyzing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, ultimately providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility for those residing in or considering moving to Hillsdale.

The cornerstone of personal transportation in Hillsdale is the automobile. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for daily activities, including healthcare appointments. Drive times to medical facilities are directly influenced by the road network. Major thoroughfares like the Garden State Parkway, while offering a relatively quick north-south route, can experience significant congestion during peak hours, especially near the exits. The New Jersey Turnpike, accessible via connecting roads, provides another option, albeit one with tolls and potential traffic delays.

Local roads such as Pascack Road, Broadway, and Washington Avenue serve as crucial arteries for accessing nearby medical offices and hospitals. The proximity of these facilities is a key factor in determining drive times. For example, a short drive down Pascack Road might lead to a primary care physician, while a slightly longer journey could be required to reach a specialist or a hospital. The efficiency of this network is often tested during rush hour, when traffic can quickly transform a 10-minute drive into a 20-minute or longer ordeal.

Public transportation offers an alternative for residents without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid traffic. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus services in the area, with routes like the 751 and 752 serving Hillsdale. These buses connect the borough to surrounding towns and regional transportation hubs. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with disabilities is crucial. NJT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with features like ramps and priority seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the bus system with mobility aids should be thoroughly assessed when considering public transit as a primary mode of healthcare transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent as a transportation option. In Hillsdale, these services offer on-demand access to healthcare facilities. The convenience of summoning a ride directly from one's home or office is a significant advantage. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services is also subject to driver availability, which can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability can impact the reliability of these services for time-sensitive medical appointments. The ability to schedule rides in advance is a valuable feature, but it requires careful planning and coordination.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs who require assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and personal care. While these services offer a high level of support, they are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical requirements.

The cost of medical transportation services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. The availability of these services in Hillsdale and the surrounding areas is an important consideration for individuals with limited mobility or those who require specialized assistance.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Hillsdale, NJ, is therefore a complex calculation. While the borough offers a relatively convenient location, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can impact drive times. Public transit provides an alternative, but its frequency and accessibility are factors to consider. Ride-sharing services offer convenience, but their cost and availability can be limitations. Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance but are typically reserved for individuals with specific needs.

For those considering moving to Hillsdale, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences is essential. Factors such as the frequency of medical appointments, the presence of any mobility limitations, and the budget for transportation costs should be carefully considered. The location of medical facilities relative to the prospective residence is also a crucial factor.

Ultimately, the overall health score for healthcare access in Hillsdale is a reflection of the interplay between these various transportation options and the specific needs of the individual. The borough's suburban character and the availability of various transportation modes offer a generally positive picture, but a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine the suitability of Hillsdale for any individual or family, especially when considering healthcare access. The best way to determine the health score is to examine the available transportation options and the specific needs of the individual.