07646, New Milford, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07646, New Milford, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.69 percent of residents in 07646 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Englewood Hospital And Medical Center with a distance of 3.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07646 (New Milford, NJ)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when weighing the merits of relocating to a new community like New Milford, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07646). This assessment provides an overall health score, evaluating the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare facilities from within the borough, considering various transportation options. This analysis is crucial for prospective residents prioritizing their health and well-being, providing a comprehensive understanding of the practicalities of receiving medical care in the area.

The health score considers factors like proximity to hospitals and clinics, drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. Each aspect is weighted based on its impact on the overall ease and convenience of healthcare access, aiming to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and advantages of seeking medical attention in New Milford. This detailed overview will help potential residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and the suitability of New Milford as a place to call home.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Paved Paths to Care**

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in New Milford and surrounding areas are the Garden State Parkway and Route 4. These major roadways are vital for accessing hospitals and specialized medical facilities. Traveling south on the Garden State Parkway offers direct routes to hospitals in Hackensack and Teaneck, while Route 4 provides a more westerly path to hospitals in Paramus and Ridgewood.

Drive times vary depending on traffic conditions, but generally, residents of New Milford can reach Hackensack University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, within a 15-20 minute drive. Englewood Hospital and Medical Center is accessible within a similar timeframe, although congestion on local roads during peak hours could extend the commute. For specialized care, such as oncology or cardiology, access to facilities in the surrounding towns is readily available.

Local roads, including River Road and Main Street, provide access to urgent care facilities, primary care physicians, and specialist offices within New Milford and neighboring communities. The efficiency of these local routes depends heavily on traffic flow, which can be particularly heavy during rush hour. Understanding these potential delays is crucial when planning medical appointments or responding to urgent health needs.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid traffic congestion. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service within the borough and to surrounding areas, connecting residents to healthcare facilities. Several bus routes, including the 167 and 758, serve New Milford, providing access to hospitals and medical centers in Hackensack, Teaneck, and Paramus.

The 167 bus, for example, offers a direct route to Hackensack University Medical Center, making it a convenient option for residents. The 758 route provides access to Englewood Hospital. However, the frequency of these bus routes varies, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving, particularly during off-peak hours.

Accessibility is a key consideration for public transit. NJ Transit buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating areas, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of elevators and ramps at all bus stops is not guaranteed, so individuals with mobility challenges should verify accessibility before relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: On-Demand Access**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in New Milford, offering a convenient option for transportation to healthcare appointments. These services provide on-demand access, allowing residents to schedule rides with relative ease. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments or long-distance travel.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other special needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. Companies like LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) offer medical transportation services in the area, often contracted by insurance providers.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to New Milford**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in New Milford (07646) is considered relatively good. The proximity to major hospitals and medical centers, coupled with the availability of various transportation options, contributes to a positive score. However, several factors need consideration.

Drive times, while generally reasonable, can be affected by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transit, while accessible, may have longer travel times and less frequent service. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer convenient alternatives but come with associated costs.

For individuals considering moving to New Milford, a thorough evaluation of their individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences is essential. Those who prioritize proximity to specialized medical care and are comfortable with driving will likely find the area highly suitable. Individuals who rely on public transit or require specialized medical transportation should carefully assess the accessibility and convenience of available services.

The availability of a diverse range of healthcare providers within New Milford and the surrounding communities further enhances the overall health score. Residents have access to a wide array of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, ensuring that their healthcare needs can be met locally.

In conclusion, New Milford offers a good level of healthcare access. The combination of accessible roadways, available public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services creates a supportive environment for residents seeking medical care. Prospective residents should carefully weigh these factors, along with their individual healthcare needs, to determine the suitability of New Milford as their new home. The overall health score reflects a community that prioritizes healthcare access, making it an attractive location for those seeking a supportive and accessible environment.