08059, Mount Ephraim, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 08059, Mount Ephraim, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.61 percent of residents in 08059 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 3.52 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 08059

The simple act of breathing, a fundamental human function, can become a daily struggle for those living with asthma. This challenge is compounded when accessing necessary healthcare. This write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 08059, Mount Ephraim, New Jersey, focusing on their impact on healthcare access for individuals with asthma. We’ll examine the practicalities of getting to appointments, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, all while evaluating the overall “Asthma Score” for this community.

Mount Ephraim, a small, close-knit borough, is situated in Camden County, providing a unique blend of suburban living and proximity to urban amenities. Its location, while generally advantageous, presents specific transportation challenges for those requiring regular medical attention, particularly individuals managing asthma. The availability and efficiency of transportation directly influence the ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and ultimately, control the condition.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For residents of 08059, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare facilities often means navigating the local roadways. The primary arteries serving Mount Ephraim include the Black Horse Pike (Route 42), a major east-west thoroughfare, and Kings Highway, offering north-south connectivity. These roads, while providing direct access to nearby towns and healthcare providers, can experience significant congestion during peak hours, especially around the Gloucester Township and Deptford areas.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via the Black Horse Pike and Route 47. Virtua Voorhees Hospital, another comprehensive healthcare provider, requires a slightly longer journey, around 20-25 minutes, primarily utilizing the Black Horse Pike and Route 73. Smaller clinics and specialist offices located in neighboring towns like Haddonfield or Cherry Hill might be accessible within 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, these drive times can be significantly extended during rush hour, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to stress and exposure to vehicle exhaust.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Mount Ephraim are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents, particularly those without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive. The primary public transit provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 403, 404, and 450.

The 403 bus provides service along the Black Horse Pike, offering a connection to Camden and Philadelphia. The 404 route travels along Kings Highway, linking Mount Ephraim to nearby towns like Haddon Heights and Audubon. The 450 route provides service to Philadelphia, via the PATCO high-speed line. While these routes offer a degree of accessibility, their frequency can be a concern. Waiting times, particularly during off-peak hours, can be lengthy, making it challenging to adhere to appointment schedules.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, including those with severe asthma who may experience difficulty with mobility. While NJT strives to provide accessible services, the reliability of accessible features and the overall accessibility of bus stops in Mount Ephraim and surrounding areas can vary. The lack of readily available, reliable public transit significantly lowers the "Asthma Score" for this community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. These services can be particularly useful for those unable to drive or who require a more flexible transportation solution. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the area, including companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare. These services often require prior authorization and may be covered by insurance, making them a viable option for those who qualify. However, the availability of these services and the time required for booking and scheduling can sometimes pose challenges.

**The "Asthma Score" for 08059:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Asthma Score" for 08059 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is generally good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some relief, but these services are not universally accessible or affordable.

The overall "Asthma Score" is negatively impacted by the limited public transit options, the potential for traffic congestion, and the reliance on personal vehicles. The need for individuals with asthma to navigate these transportation hurdles can add stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating their condition.

**Moving to Mount Ephraim with Asthma:**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Mount Ephraim, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. While the borough offers a pleasant living environment, the challenges of accessing healthcare should be carefully considered. Prospective residents should evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of public transit options, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Additionally, researching the proximity of healthcare providers, including pulmonologists, allergists, and emergency care facilities, is essential. Understanding the traffic patterns and potential delays on major roadways is also vital. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall quality of life in Mount Ephraim. This information is crucial for anyone seeking to improve their healthcare access and ensure their health needs are met.