08034, Cherry Hill, New Jersey Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 08034, Cherry Hill, New Jersey is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.28 percent of residents in 08034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 5.25 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cherry Hill (08034)

Considering a move to Cherry Hill, New Jersey (ZIP code 08034), and managing arthritis? This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of accessing healthcare, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations. We'll examine drive times, public transit accessibility, and ride-sharing/medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. Understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision about relocating, ensuring your healthcare needs are met with minimal stress.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the understanding that arthritis can significantly impact mobility, making transportation a critical component of healthcare access. This score aims to provide a practical guide, considering the realities of living with arthritis. We will evaluate the availability, convenience, and suitability of various transportation methods, ultimately helping you assess if Cherry Hill is the right place for you.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

Cherry Hill enjoys a strategic location, offering relatively easy access to major healthcare facilities. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, particularly for those with arthritis. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the major highways and roads.

The **New Jersey Turnpike (I-95)** provides a direct route to Philadelphia, where numerous specialized medical centers are located. However, the Turnpike often experiences heavy traffic, especially near the Philadelphia exits, potentially increasing travel time and exacerbating discomfort for those with arthritis. The **Atlantic City Expressway** also intersects with Cherry Hill, offering another route to Philadelphia, though this option may involve tolls and potentially less direct access to specific healthcare providers.

Within Cherry Hill itself, the primary roads, such as **Route 70** and **Route 38**, are essential for accessing local medical offices, pharmacies, and rehabilitation centers. Route 70, a major commercial thoroughfare, can be particularly congested, especially during rush hour. Route 38, while generally less congested, can still experience delays. These roads, while providing convenient access, require careful planning to minimize travel time and potential discomfort.

Drive times to major hospitals and specialist offices can vary significantly depending on traffic. For example, a drive to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia, a major center for rheumatology, could take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions on the Turnpike or alternative routes. Similarly, driving to Virtua Voorhees Hospital, a well-regarded local hospital, could take 10-20 minutes, depending on your location within Cherry Hill.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation in Cherry Hill, while present, may present challenges for individuals with arthritis. The **New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit)** operates several bus routes through the area, providing a more affordable alternative to driving. However, the accessibility of these routes and the overall convenience must be carefully considered.

Several NJ Transit bus routes, including the **404, 406, and 450**, serve Cherry Hill, connecting it to Philadelphia and surrounding areas. The **404** provides a direct link to the PATCO high-speed line, offering rapid transit to Philadelphia. While some buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, the frequency of these features varies. Confirming the availability of ADA-compliant buses on your specific route and at the times you need to travel is essential.

The **PATCO (Port Authority Transit Corporation)** high-speed line, which runs through Cherry Hill, offers a faster and more direct route to Philadelphia. The PATCO stations are generally ADA-accessible, with elevators and ramps. However, navigating the stations and the potential for crowded trains can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.

The primary drawback of public transit for individuals with arthritis is the potential for long wait times, transfers, and the physical demands of navigating stations and buses. While public transit offers a cost-effective option, it may not be the most convenient or comfortable choice for those with significant mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offer alternative transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive or find public transit challenging. **Uber** and **Lyft** are readily available in Cherry Hill, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as **CareRide** and **First Transit**, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring a more comfortable and accessible experience. While medical transport services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they offer a higher level of care and specialized assistance.

The availability of these services and their associated costs should be factored into your overall assessment. Consider the frequency of your medical appointments, your budget, and your comfort level with different transportation options.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

Evaluating healthcare access in Cherry Hill goes beyond just transportation. The proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and the overall quality of care are also crucial factors. Cherry Hill boasts a diverse range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, specialist offices, and rehabilitation centers.

**Virtua Voorhees Hospital** is a major healthcare provider in the area, offering a wide range of medical services. Numerous specialist offices, including rheumatologists, are located within Cherry Hill and the surrounding areas. The availability of these specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments are essential considerations.

**Moving to Cherry Hill:** A Personalized Assessment

The "Arthritis Score" for Cherry Hill (08034) is not a single number but a personalized assessment. It requires you to weigh the factors discussed above based on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following:

* **Your Mobility:** How easily can you walk, stand, and sit?
* **Your Medical Needs:** How frequently do you need to visit healthcare providers?
* **Your Budget:** How much can you afford to spend on transportation?
* **Your Preferences:** Do you prefer driving, public transit, or ride-sharing?

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can determine whether Cherry Hill offers the healthcare access and transportation options that meet your specific needs. This "Arthritis Score" write-up serves as a starting point, empowering you to make an informed decision about moving to Cherry Hill and ensuring your healthcare needs are adequately addressed.