07842, Hibernia, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07842, Hibernia, New Jersey is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 07842 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Clare's Hospital/ Denville Campus with a distance of 3.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07842 (Hibernia, NJ)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is crucial for residents of Hibernia, New Jersey (ZIP code 07842), and a critical factor for anyone considering moving to this Morris County community. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the various transportation options available to reach essential medical services. The score reflects the ease, efficiency, and accessibility of these options, ultimately impacting the overall well-being of residents.

The geographic layout of Hibernia, nestled within the hills of northern New Jersey, significantly influences transportation choices. The area is primarily residential, with limited commercial development within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel to surrounding towns for most healthcare needs. The primary challenge lies in the distance and the reliance on personal vehicles, particularly given the limited public transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in 07842 is the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents its own set of challenges. The primary thoroughfares include Route 15, a major north-south artery, and Route 80, a major east-west interstate. Route 46, a more local road, also provides access to some medical facilities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. Accessing the closest urgent care facilities in Rockaway or Jefferson Township, for instance, typically takes 15-20 minutes via Route 15. Reaching larger hospitals, such as Morristown Medical Center or Saint Clare's Hospital in Denville, can extend the drive time to 30-45 minutes, especially during peak hours. The winding, hilly roads within Hibernia can also contribute to longer travel times.

Traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly impact drive times. Accidents on Route 80 or Route 15 can create substantial delays, further complicating healthcare access. This reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic bottlenecks, negatively impacts the overall health score.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Hibernia are limited. The primary provider is New Jersey Transit (NJT), but its service in this area is sparse. Bus routes are available, but they are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. The closest NJT bus stops are located along Route 15 and Route 46, requiring a transfer or a significant walk to reach healthcare providers.

The lack of comprehensive public transit significantly disadvantages those without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. This limited accessibility directly affects the overall health score, hindering equal access to healthcare services. ADA accessibility features on the available buses are essential, but the infrequent service limits their practical utility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Hibernia can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services are available, catering specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, such as SeniorCare Transportation or MedRide, provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. While these services are invaluable for those who need them, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking, potentially creating delays in accessing care.

**Healthcare Access and Proximity:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities to Hibernia is a crucial factor in the overall health score. While Hibernia itself lacks major medical centers, several healthcare providers are located within a reasonable driving distance. These include urgent care centers, primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals.

The availability of these facilities is essential for providing timely and convenient healthcare access. However, the drive times and the limitations of public transportation still pose challenges. The overall health score is affected by the balance between the availability of healthcare providers and the accessibility of transportation options.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering all the factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in ZIP code 07842 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for traffic delays negatively impact the score. While ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternatives, their availability and cost can be restrictive.

The score could be improved by expanding public transportation routes to directly serve medical facilities, promoting ride-sharing programs, and incentivizing the establishment of more healthcare providers within closer proximity to Hibernia. These improvements would enhance healthcare access, promote the overall well-being of residents, and make the community a more attractive place to live. Anyone moving to Hibernia should carefully consider these transportation limitations when assessing their healthcare needs.

The health score reflects the multifaceted challenges of healthcare access in this area. It underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating a community's overall health and quality of life. The need for improved transportation options is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Hibernia have equitable access to the healthcare services they need.