08055, Medford, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08055, Medford, New Jersey is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.38 percent of residents in 08055 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Jersey Hospital with a distance of 5.49 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Medford, NJ (ZIP Code 08055)

Considering a move to Medford, New Jersey (ZIP code 08055)? Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere and desirable school district, understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical illness like breast cancer, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of transportation to essential medical services. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a detailed picture of healthcare accessibility for residents.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade; it's a qualitative evaluation. It considers factors like proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, the availability of various transportation modes, and the overall convenience of reaching crucial appointments. This assessment aims to empower potential residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Medford, nestled in Burlington County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to major metropolitan areas. This geographical positioning influences healthcare access. The primary concern for breast cancer patients is timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This often necessitates frequent visits to medical facilities, making transportation a crucial factor.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For those relying on personal vehicles, understanding drive times is essential. The primary roadways serving Medford are Route 70, Route 73, and the New Jersey Turnpike. Accessing major cancer centers will likely involve navigating these arteries.

Driving to Virtua Voorhees Hospital, a prominent healthcare provider with a comprehensive cancer program, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves Route 70 East. The drive is generally straightforward, but rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during weekday commutes.

Another critical destination is the MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper University Hospital in Camden. This drive, utilizing Route 70 East and the Admiral Wilson Boulevard, can range from 30-45 minutes, again, contingent on traffic flow. The Admiral Wilson Boulevard is notorious for congestion, particularly during peak hours, so planning for delays is advisable.

For those seeking specialized care or second opinions, the drive to the University of Pennsylvania's Abramson Cancer Center in Philadelphia is a possibility. This route involves navigating the New Jersey Turnpike or I-95 North, resulting in a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the chosen route. This journey requires careful planning, especially considering potential tolls and urban traffic complexities.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit a less convenient one, for accessing healthcare. The primary public transit provider in the area is the New Jersey Transit (NJT). However, the availability of direct routes from Medford to major cancer centers is limited.

The NJT bus routes, particularly the 406 and 407, provide connections to Philadelphia, where access to comprehensive cancer care is readily available. These routes, while offering a cost-effective solution, often involve multiple transfers and longer travel times. The 406 route runs along Route 70, providing a connection to the PATCO High-Speed Line, which then provides access to the city. The 407 bus travels along Route 73.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for patients with mobility limitations. NJT strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair access on buses and at train stations. However, it's essential to verify the accessibility of specific routes and stations before relying on public transit, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The reliance on public transit can significantly increase travel time. A trip to Virtua Voorhees Hospital via public transportation might take over an hour, including transfers and waiting times. A trip to the MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper University Hospital in Camden could take even longer. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services are readily available in Medford and provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on distance, time of day, and demand. However, it offers a flexible and reliable option for patients who may not be able to drive themselves or who need assistance with mobility. It's important to factor in the cost of ride-sharing when budgeting for healthcare-related transportation expenses.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide another valuable option. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles, and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the area, including local ambulance services and specialized transportation companies. These services typically require advance booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the patient's plan and medical necessity. Investigating the availability and cost of medical transportation services is crucial for patients who require assistance with transportation.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Medford, NJ (08055) is a nuanced assessment. While the area offers relatively easy access to major roadways, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a burden. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, adds complexity to travel times.

Public transit provides a more economical option, but it's less convenient and time-consuming. The accessibility of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial consideration.

Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer valuable alternatives, providing flexibility and support. However, these services come with associated costs that should be factored into the overall healthcare budget.

**Moving to Medford: A Holistic Approach**

For individuals considering moving to Medford, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs is essential. The "Breast Cancer Score" assessment emphasizes the importance of considering transportation as a key factor in healthcare access.

Before relocating, prospective residents should research the specific cancer centers and specialists they may need. They should then assess the feasibility of accessing these facilities using various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.

Understanding the potential impact of traffic congestion, the availability of accessible public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services is crucial for making an informed decision. By proactively evaluating these factors, potential residents can ensure they have access to the necessary healthcare services and support systems.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Medford is positive, but not perfect. The area offers good access to quality care, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of convenient public transit necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options. By embracing a holistic approach to healthcare access, residents can navigate the complexities of transportation and ensure they receive the timely and effective care they deserve.