07926, Brookside, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07926, Brookside, New Jersey is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 07926 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morristown Medical Center with a distance of 5.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07926

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 07926 (Brookside, New Jersey), focusing on the crucial element of *healthcare access* via various *transportation* methods. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for individuals considering *moving to Brookside*, as readily available healthcare is a fundamental component of overall well-being.

ZIP code 07926, a charming enclave in Morris County, benefits from its proximity to major roadways. However, the reality of healthcare access hinges on more than just geographical proximity. The overall health score is a composite assessment, weighing the efficiency, convenience, and accessibility of each transportation option. A higher score indicates superior healthcare access.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

The primary mode of transportation for residents is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Several hospitals and medical facilities are accessible via car, but the actual drive time fluctuates depending on the destination and the time of day. The major arteries serving Brookside are Route 24, Interstate 287, and Route 10.

Route 24 provides relatively direct access to Morristown Medical Center, a highly-rated hospital. During off-peak hours, the drive is typically a swift 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more. Interstate 287 offers a broader network, connecting to various medical centers further afield. While this provides more options, it also increases travel time, especially considering potential traffic congestion. Route 10, while providing access to some smaller medical facilities, is often burdened by heavy traffic, especially around shopping centers and business districts.

The variability in drive times necessitates careful planning. Residents must factor in peak traffic periods when scheduling appointments. The overall driving score is moderately high, reflecting the availability of roads but acknowledging the potential for significant delays.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag:**

Public transportation offers an alternative, though it presents challenges. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) operates bus routes that serve the area, including routes 70, 71, and 79. These routes offer varying degrees of coverage and frequency. Route 70 primarily connects to Morristown, while routes 71 and 79 provide access to other towns with medical facilities.

The frequency of these buses, particularly during weekends and evenings, can be limited, potentially creating significant wait times. Furthermore, while NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, the availability of ADA-compliant buses (with ramps or lifts) on every route and at every stop is not always guaranteed. This poses a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations. The overall score for public transportation is lower, reflecting the limited scope and potential accessibility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Brookside. These offer a convenient on-demand option for reaching healthcare appointments. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent visits. Furthermore, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services expensive.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar and CareRide, are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle patients with mobility issues. While offering specialized support, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The overall score for ride-sharing is moderate, considering the cost and potential for surge pricing. Medical transport services receive a higher score due to their specialized nature, but their cost limits their widespread use.

**Healthcare Facilities and Proximity:**

The proximity of medical facilities significantly impacts the overall health score. Morristown Medical Center, a highly-regarded hospital, is a major draw. Several smaller clinics and physician offices are also located within a reasonable driving distance. The availability of diverse medical specialties within a reasonable commute time contributes positively to the overall score.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 07926 is moderately high. While the area benefits from good road infrastructure and the availability of ride-sharing services, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours must be considered.

For individuals *moving to Brookside*, careful consideration should be given to their individual healthcare needs and mobility limitations. Those who rely on public transportation should carefully assess the frequency and accessibility of bus routes. Individuals with mobility issues may find ride-sharing or medical transport services to be more suitable, though the associated costs should be factored in.

Residents should also familiarize themselves with the various healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, including their specialties and appointment scheduling processes. Planning ahead, especially during peak traffic times, is crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

The overall health score can be improved by advocating for increased public transportation frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends. Increased investment in ADA-compliant infrastructure would also improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Encouraging the growth of medical facilities within the immediate vicinity would also enhance the overall health score, making healthcare access even more convenient for residents of Brookside.