07676, Township Of Washington, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07676, Township Of Washington, New Jersey is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.85 percent of residents in 07676 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical with a distance of 2.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07676 (Township of Washington, NJ)

The Township of Washington, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07676), nestled in Bergen County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling New York metropolitan area. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically examining the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount for residents, particularly those considering moving to Township of Washington, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" here considers various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each mode is evaluated based on factors like travel time, accessibility, cost, and availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare access environment within and around the township.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roadways**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The Township of Washington benefits from a relatively well-maintained road network. Major thoroughfares like the Garden State Parkway, a vital north-south artery, are easily accessible. However, peak traffic hours can significantly impact drive times, particularly during weekday commutes.

Driving to hospitals and specialist offices requires navigating a network of local roads and highways. The New Jersey Route 4, a major east-west route, provides access to hospitals in Hackensack and Paramus. Route 17, another critical artery, offers connections to medical facilities further north. Local roads like Pascack Road and Washington Avenue serve as essential connectors within the township and to neighboring communities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. For instance, a trip to Hackensack University Medical Center, a major regional hospital, could take approximately 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or more. Smaller clinics and urgent care centers within the township or nearby towns like Westwood and Paramus are generally accessible within 10-15 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

Public transportation provides an alternative to driving, offering a cost-effective and environmentally conscious option. The Township of Washington is served by New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) bus routes. The primary routes serving the area include the 758, which connects to the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal and provides access to New York City. The 758 also offers connections to other bus routes and rail lines, expanding the reach of the public transit network.

While NJ Transit provides a valuable service, the frequency of bus routes can be a limiting factor, especially during off-peak hours and weekends. Travel times can also be significantly longer compared to driving, particularly for destinations outside of the immediate area. For example, a trip to Hackensack via public transit could take over an hour, including waiting times and transfers.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. NJ Transit buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, including ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the availability of these features and their functionality should be verified before travel.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Mobility**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient and readily available transportation option. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing is generally available throughout the Township of Washington, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the expense. It is crucial to factor in these costs when assessing the overall affordability of healthcare access.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with mobility. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 07676 is multifaceted. The Township of Washington benefits from a location that provides access to a wide range of healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can impact the efficiency of healthcare access.

Public transit provides a viable alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and travel time should be considered. Ride-sharing services offer on-demand transportation, but their cost can be a barrier for some. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but are often more expensive.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

The Township of Washington offers a good level of healthcare access. The community benefits from its proximity to major medical centers and a network of local healthcare providers. The availability of multiple transportation options enhances this access.

However, the "Overall Health Score" is not without its nuances. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when assessing healthcare access. Factors such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and the frequency of medical appointments will significantly influence the most appropriate transportation choices. Understanding the drive-times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing options is crucial for anyone considering moving to Township of Washington.

A well-informed resident can navigate the transportation landscape effectively, ensuring timely access to the medical care they need. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining and improving overall health and well-being.