08217, Elwood, New Jersey Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 08217, Elwood, New Jersey is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 08217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shore Medical Center with a distance of 19.49 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elwood, NJ (ZIP Code 08217)

Elwood, New Jersey, a serene corner of Atlantic County, offers a slower pace of life, attracting those seeking respite from the urban clamor. However, for individuals managing arthritis, the tranquility can be overshadowed by the complexities of accessing healthcare. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the practical realities of **transportation** options within and around ZIP code 08217, evaluating their accessibility and suitability for those with mobility challenges. We'll explore the journey to **healthcare access**, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing crucial insights for anyone **moving to Elwood** or already residing there.

The primary artery serving Elwood is the Atlantic City Expressway. This toll road provides a swift, albeit costly, route to larger medical centers in Atlantic City and Philadelphia. For those with arthritis, the Expressway's relatively smooth surface can be a boon, minimizing jarring impacts during travel. However, the toll booths and potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can present challenges. The drive to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a manageable distance, but the physical strain of driving, especially for longer durations, needs careful consideration.

Navigating beyond the Expressway involves a network of local roads. Route 561, running north-south, provides access to various local amenities and connects to the Expressway. Route 539, a more rural road, offers a scenic alternative, but its winding nature and potential for potholes can be problematic for individuals with arthritis. These roads are generally well-maintained, but the absence of dedicated bus lanes or extensive pedestrian infrastructure necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods.

Public transit options in Elwood are limited. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) system does not directly serve the area with bus routes. The closest NJT bus service is in Hammonton, approximately a 15-minute drive. The #551 bus route, which travels between Atlantic City and Philadelphia, does not have any stops in Elwood. This absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The lack of accessible public **transportation** is a significant factor for anyone with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Elwood, offering a convenient alternative to driving. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. For individuals with arthritis, the accessibility of the vehicles themselves is a key consideration. Ensuring the driver is willing to assist with getting in and out of the car and accommodating mobility aids is essential.

Medical **transportation** services offer specialized assistance for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door service, including assistance with getting to and from appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the Atlantic County area, including Advanced Medical Transport and Atlantic Medical Transport. These services often accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. However, it is essential to book these services in advance and confirm their coverage by your insurance plan.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Elwood is heavily reliant on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. While the drive to major medical centers is relatively short, the lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier for those who cannot drive. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Elwood** or those already residing there and managing arthritis. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of the physical demands of driving.

The availability of medical **transportation** services provides a crucial lifeline for those with mobility challenges. However, the cost and need for advance booking should be factored into the equation. The accessibility of ride-sharing services is also a positive factor, but the variability in availability and the need to confirm accessibility features require careful consideration.

The "Arthritis Score" for Elwood, NJ, reflects a landscape where personal mobility and pre-planning are paramount. While the drive times to healthcare providers are generally reasonable, the absence of convenient public transit and the reliance on private or paid **transportation** require careful consideration. Individuals with arthritis considering **moving to Elwood** or already residing there must proactively assess their **transportation** needs and explore the available options to ensure seamless **healthcare access**. This includes researching medical **transportation** providers, familiarizing themselves with ride-sharing availability, and considering the physical demands of driving. The goal is to proactively mitigate the challenges and ensure that the tranquility of Elwood is not overshadowed by the complexities of accessing essential medical care.