10964, Palisades, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10964, Palisades, New York is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.50 percent of residents in 10964 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St John's Riverside Hospital with a distance of 3.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Palisades, NY (ZIP Code 10964)

The picturesque village of Palisades, nestled in Rockland County, New York, offers a tranquil escape from the city. However, this idyllic setting presents unique challenges when it comes to **healthcare access**. This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 10964, focusing on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to medical facilities. We delve into the realities of commuting, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Palisades**.

The health score is not a static number but a composite evaluation, considering the availability, affordability, and accessibility of healthcare services. A crucial element is the ability to reach these services promptly, particularly during emergencies. The geographic isolation of Palisades, while contributing to its charm, significantly impacts this aspect.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Mode**

For most Palisades residents, the automobile is the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare appointments. The major thoroughfare serving the area is the Palisades Interstate Parkway. This scenic route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. The speed limits fluctuate, and accidents, though infrequent, can cause significant delays.

To access hospitals and specialized care, residents typically travel south towards New Jersey or north towards the Hudson Valley. The closest hospitals are a drive away. The drive to Montefiore Nyack Hospital, located in Nyack, NY, typically takes between 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This facility offers a broad range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, and oncology.

For more specialized care, residents often head south to Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, New Jersey. This drive, primarily via the Palisades Interstate Parkway and the Garden State Parkway, can take between 30-45 minutes, again contingent upon traffic. This hospital provides advanced medical services, including specialized surgery, transplant programs, and comprehensive cancer treatment.

Another option is Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, NY. This drive, usually taking 20-30 minutes, involves navigating local roads and the New York State Thruway (I-87). Good Samaritan offers a wide array of services, including emergency care, maternity services, and a range of specialty clinics.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Challenges**

Public **transportation** options in Palisades are limited, posing a significant hurdle to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Rockland County operates a bus system, but routes serving Palisades are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

The primary bus route serving the area is the 9T, operated by Transport of Rockland (TOR). This route travels along Route 9W, providing access to Nyack and other towns. However, it doesn't directly serve the hospitals mentioned earlier. Passengers would need to transfer to another bus or utilize a ride-sharing service to reach their final destination.

The accessibility of public **transportation** for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is a crucial consideration. TOR buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate riders with mobility impairments. However, the infrequency of service and the need for transfers can still present challenges for those requiring assistance.

The lack of direct routes to hospitals, combined with the limited operating hours of the bus service, significantly impacts the overall health score. Relying on public transit for healthcare appointments requires careful planning and a considerable time commitment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of these services in Palisades can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The fares to hospitals, especially those located further away, can accumulate significantly over time. While ride-sharing provides a more convenient option than public transit, it is not always a reliable or affordable solution.

Medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, offering door-to-door service for appointments. These services often accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

The cost of medical **transportation** is typically higher than ride-sharing, but it can be a vital resource for those who require assistance. However, the availability of these services and the ability to schedule them in advance are critical factors.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Palisades**

The overall health score for residents of Palisades, NY (10964) concerning **healthcare access** is moderate. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the **transportation** challenges significantly impact the ease of reaching medical facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic delays all contribute to the complexity of **healthcare access**.

The drive times to hospitals, while manageable, require careful planning and can be affected by traffic conditions. The infrequent public transit service and the need for transfers further complicate the situation. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternative solutions, but their availability and affordability are important considerations.

For individuals considering **moving to Palisades**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the challenges associated with reaching medical appointments.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers. Palisades has a limited number of primary care physicians and specialists within the immediate vicinity. Residents may need to travel to neighboring towns or cities to access the full range of medical services.

The health score is also affected by the availability of emergency services. The time it takes for an ambulance to arrive in Palisades can be a crucial factor in life-threatening situations. The distance to the nearest hospitals and the potential for traffic delays can impact the response time.

The score is not static and can be improved. Investing in improved public transit options, including more frequent service and direct routes to hospitals, would significantly enhance **healthcare access** for residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and providing subsidies for medical **transportation** services could also help.

In conclusion, while Palisades offers a desirable quality of life, the **transportation** challenges related to **healthcare access** must be carefully considered. The overall health score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic delays. For those considering **moving to Palisades**, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential to ensure they can access the medical care they require.