07456, Ringwood, New Jersey Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 07456, Ringwood, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.35 percent of residents in 07456 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chilton Medical Center with a distance of 9.56 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ringwood, NJ (ZIP Code 07456)

Considering a move to Ringwood, New Jersey (ZIP code 07456)? This picturesque borough, nestled in the Ramapo Mountains, offers stunning natural beauty and a close-knit community. However, when contemplating a move, especially for those seeking healthcare, understanding **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" analysis, focusing on the ease of accessing prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment from Ringwood. It considers drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, offering a comprehensive view for potential residents.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value; it's a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency with which a resident of Ringwood can access necessary medical care. This analysis prioritizes factors like travel time, accessibility, and the availability of diverse transportation options.

For residents of Ringwood, the journey to comprehensive prostate cancer care often begins with a primary care physician. Fortunately, several local practices are located within a reasonable distance. The drive to a general practitioner in nearby towns like Wanaque or Pompton Lakes is typically under 15 minutes. This initial step is crucial, as a primary care physician can perform initial screenings and refer patients to specialists.

However, the real challenge lies in accessing specialized care, particularly for urology and oncology services. The closest hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers are located further afield. The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, a well-regarded facility, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. The route typically involves taking Ringwood Avenue south, merging onto the busy Route 287 South, then onto Route 17 South. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be subject to significant delays during peak commuting hours.

Another option is St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, which is roughly a 30-40 minute drive, also influenced by traffic conditions. The journey involves taking Greenwood Lake Turnpike, then merging onto Route 287 South, and finally, the Garden State Parkway. While offering a different route, the Parkway, particularly during rush hour, can be congested.

The **transportation** landscape significantly impacts **healthcare access** in Ringwood. While personal vehicles remain the most convenient mode for many, understanding alternative options is vital.

Public transit presents a less convenient option for accessing specialized cancer care. New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes in the area, but direct routes to major hospitals are limited. The primary bus route serving Ringwood is the 197, which runs between Ringwood and the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. While this route provides access to New York City hospitals, the journey is lengthy, typically exceeding an hour and a half, and requires transferring to other forms of transit.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on NJT buses is generally good, with features like ramps and designated seating. However, the long travel times and the need for transfers make public transit less practical for frequent medical appointments, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment that may involve fatigue or other side effects.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Ringwood, offering a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who prefer not to drive or are unable to. However, the cost of these services can accumulate quickly, particularly for regular appointments. The availability of ride-sharing can also fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized option for individuals needing assistance with medical appointments. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be booked in advance, providing a reliable option for those who require assistance. However, these services typically come at a premium price.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Ringwood, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to primary care physicians is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care poses a challenge. The drive times to major hospitals can be significant, particularly during peak traffic. Public transit offers limited options, and ride-sharing services, while available, may not be the most cost-effective solution for regular appointments.

For those considering **moving to Ringwood**, it's crucial to factor in these **transportation** considerations when evaluating **healthcare access**. Pre-planning appointments, allowing ample travel time, and exploring all available options, including ride-sharing and medical transportation, are essential strategies for navigating the healthcare system.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators at cancer centers, can further improve the "Prostate Cancer Score." These navigators assist patients in coordinating appointments, understanding treatment plans, and accessing resources.

In conclusion, while Ringwood offers a desirable lifestyle, the **transportation** challenges to **healthcare access**, particularly for specialized care like prostate cancer treatment, necessitate careful planning. Residents should prioritize establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, researching the closest cancer centers, and understanding the available **transportation** options, including drive times on highways like Route 287 and Route 17, and the limitations of public transit. By proactively addressing these factors, residents can optimize their **healthcare access** and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they need. The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Ringwood reflects a need for strategic planning and awareness of the **transportation** landscape.