08037, Hammonton, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08037, Hammonton, New Jersey is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.87 percent of residents in 08037 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Jersey Hospital with a distance of 16.48 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 08037

The decision to relocate, especially with healthcare considerations, is significant. This analysis, the “Breast Cancer Score” for ZIP code 08037 (Hammonton, New Jersey), aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of transportation options and healthcare access for individuals concerned about breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Hammonton or seeking improved healthcare access within the area.

Hammonton, a vibrant community in Atlantic County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its rural character influences the available transportation options, shaping the journey to essential medical services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for residents and prospective residents alike. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a realistic view of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary mode of transportation for many in 08037 is personal vehicles. The accessibility of breast cancer care hinges heavily on drive times to specialized facilities. The major roadways dictate these journeys.

For routine screenings and initial consultations, the **Atlantic City Expressway (ACE)** provides the most direct route to facilities in Atlantic City. Expect a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The ACE offers a relatively smooth, high-speed journey, making it the preferred choice for many.

For more specialized care, including surgical oncology and radiation therapy, the **Garden State Parkway (GSP)** offers access to facilities in Philadelphia, a journey of about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. This route, while longer, provides access to a wider range of specialists and advanced treatment options.

Local roads like **Route 54** and **Route 30** offer alternative routes to local healthcare providers. These roads, while providing access to local family practices and some imaging centers, may not always be the most direct or efficient route for specialized breast cancer care. Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in 08037 are limited but available. The **New Jersey Transit (NJT)** provides bus service, primarily along Route 54. However, these routes may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities and require careful planning.

The **NJT Route 551** offers service to Atlantic City, providing a potential link to healthcare providers in that city. However, the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers can make this option less appealing, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility challenges.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. While NJT strives to provide accessible services, it's essential to confirm the accessibility of specific bus routes and stops before relying on public transit. This includes ensuring wheelchair accessibility and accessible boarding. Contacting NJT directly is recommended for specific inquiries about ADA features on particular routes.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in 08037. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments requires careful planning and may be subject to delays.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance with travel. Several companies operate in the area, including **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation Services**. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, it's crucial to verify insurance coverage and pre-book these services well in advance.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Breast Cancer Score for 08037 is not a single number but a composite assessment. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average time to reach key healthcare facilities, including hospitals, imaging centers, and oncology clinics.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and coverage of medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** The distance to facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

The score will be higher for areas with shorter drive times, readily available public transit, reliable ride-sharing services, and accessible medical transport options. Proximity to comprehensive breast cancer care facilities will also significantly impact the score.

**Moving to Hammonton: Making an Informed Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Hammonton, this analysis provides crucial insights into healthcare access. While the area offers a sense of community and a lower cost of living compared to some surrounding areas, healthcare access requires careful consideration.

The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care is a significant factor. The availability of ride-sharing services, while present, may not be consistently reliable. Public transit options are limited, and medical transport services require pre-planning.

Therefore, prospective residents should carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and preferences. Those requiring frequent specialized care may find the drive times and transportation limitations challenging. However, for those seeking a more rural lifestyle with access to local primary care and the ability to drive to specialized facilities, Hammonton can still be a viable option.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The Breast Cancer Score for 08037 highlights the importance of considering transportation and healthcare access when making decisions about where to live. While Hammonton offers a unique lifestyle, understanding the transportation landscape is vital for individuals concerned about breast cancer care.

By carefully evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access. This analysis empowers prospective residents to prioritize their health and make choices that best support their well-being. Healthcare access is a critical component of quality of life, and this score provides a valuable framework for navigating the healthcare system in 08037.