08217, Elwood, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer 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.

## Breast Cancer Score: Access to Care in Elwood, NJ (ZIP Code 08217)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Elwood, New Jersey (ZIP code 08217), the ability to navigate the complexities of treatment hinges significantly on **transportation** options and the availability of **healthcare access**. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the practical realities of reaching crucial medical appointments, from initial screenings to ongoing therapies, considering the unique geographical context of this community.

Elwood, nestled within the heart of Atlantic County, presents a landscape of rural charm interspersed with pockets of suburban development. Its relative isolation dictates that residents often rely on personal vehicles for daily commutes. This reliance on private **transportation** is a critical factor in our evaluation of the Breast Cancer Score for this area. A diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment regimen, can severely impact a patient’s ability to drive, making the availability of alternative options a paramount concern.

The primary arteries of **transportation** in and around Elwood are the Atlantic City Expressway (ACE), Route 322, and Route 561. The ACE provides a direct, albeit toll-based, route to Atlantic City and its associated medical facilities. Route 322 offers a more meandering path, connecting Elwood to Hammonton and Mullica Township, areas with some medical resources. Route 561 provides access to local services and connects to other major thoroughfares. Drive times to specialized breast cancer centers will vary depending on the specific destination and the time of day.

A trip to the AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City via the ACE could take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This center offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and radiation therapy. The drive, however, is subject to toll fees and potential congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Other options, such as the Inspira Medical Center in Vineland, accessible primarily via Route 322 and the ACE, might require a 45-60 minute drive. This underscores the geographical challenges faced by residents of Elwood.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Elwood. The primary mode of public transit is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. However, bus routes in this area are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. Route 551, for instance, offers limited service through the region, but its schedule may not align with the demanding schedules of medical appointments. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle.

The accessibility of public transit is further hampered by the lack of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on all routes. While NJT strives to provide accessible services, the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can present significant challenges for patients undergoing treatment. The impact of these factors must be considered when assessing the overall **healthcare access** for residents of Elwood.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potentially viable alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Elwood can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost of **transportation**. Furthermore, patients undergoing treatment may experience side effects that make ride-sharing a less desirable option. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services are crucial considerations in the overall Breast Cancer Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, provide another avenue for **transportation**. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services, often covered by insurance. These services typically provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and luggage. However, the availability and coverage of these services vary depending on the patient's insurance plan and the specific medical needs.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the proximity of support services. While Elwood itself may not offer specialized breast cancer support groups or counseling services, the surrounding communities of Hammonton, Mays Landing, and Atlantic City do. Accessing these services, however, requires reliable **transportation**. This underscores the interconnectedness of all aspects of care, from medical appointments to emotional support.

The decision to move to Elwood, or to remain there after a diagnosis, requires careful consideration of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not just a measure of distance and travel time; it is a reflection of the practical challenges and potential barriers that residents face in accessing timely and appropriate care.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Elwood, NJ (08217) is influenced by a combination of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical **transportation** services and the proximity of specialized medical facilities, while positive factors, are often offset by the challenges of navigating the region's **transportation** infrastructure.

A high Breast Cancer Score indicates a community with readily available and accessible resources. In Elwood, the score is tempered by the geographical realities and the limitations of the existing **transportation** network. This highlights the need for increased public **transportation** options, improved accessibility to ride-sharing services, and greater awareness of medical **transportation** resources. The Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities for improving **healthcare access** in Elwood, ensuring that residents have the best possible chance of receiving timely and effective care.