08302, Bridgeton, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08302, Bridgeton, New Jersey is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.78 percent of residents in 08302 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Inspira Medical Center Elmer with a distance of 10.60 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bridgeton, NJ (ZIP Code 08302)**

Bridgeton, New Jersey, a city steeped in history and nestled in the heart of Cumberland County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer treatment. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” delves into the transportation infrastructure and its impact on accessing vital medical services for residents of ZIP Code 08302. The goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for individuals navigating the journey to healthcare, especially those facing the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The very act of commuting to healthcare is a critical factor in patient outcomes. Delays in diagnosis or treatment due to transportation barriers can significantly impact survival rates and quality of life. This score considers the availability and accessibility of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, all crucial components of healthcare access.

For residents of Bridgeton, the primary mode of transportation is often the personal vehicle. Driving is the most direct and flexible way to reach medical facilities, but it is also subject to the vagaries of traffic and road conditions. Major arteries like **Route 77**, **Route 49**, and **Route 55** serve as the primary routes.

**Route 77**, a north-south corridor, provides access to facilities in and around Bridgeton, while **Route 49**, running east-west, connects to neighboring towns and healthcare providers. **Route 55**, a limited-access highway, offers a faster route north, but it can be prone to congestion during peak hours. Drive times to medical facilities specializing in breast cancer care can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

A drive to Inspira Medical Center Vineland, a regional healthcare hub, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes via **Route 77** and **Route 55**. This drive time can be extended during rush hour, adding to the stress and potential delays for patients. The journey to facilities in Philadelphia, such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania or Fox Chase Cancer Center, can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions on **Route 55** and the **Atlantic City Expressway**.

Public transportation, while available, presents significant limitations. The primary provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. The **Route 313** bus is a crucial link for Bridgeton residents, connecting them to Vineland and other regional destinations. However, the frequency of service can be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration for public transit. While NJT strives to ensure accessibility on its buses, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may affect their physical capabilities. The availability of accessible stops and the ease of boarding and disembarking are critical factors in determining the viability of public transit for breast cancer patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Bridgeton and the surrounding areas can be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost. This can be a major barrier for patients who are on fixed incomes or who require frequent transportation to appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can provide a more comfortable and reliable option for patients who may have difficulty using public transit or driving themselves. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited depending on insurance coverage and geographic location.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Bridgeton, NJ, considers all these factors. It assesses the drive times to various medical facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. The score also takes into account the socioeconomic factors that can impact healthcare access, such as income levels, insurance coverage, and the availability of social support.

The score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals navigating the healthcare system. It highlights the challenges faced by patients in accessing timely and appropriate care and identifies areas where improvements can be made. For example, increasing the frequency of NJT bus service, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the use of medical transportation services can all improve healthcare access.

For someone moving to Bridgeton, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with commuting to appointments. Researching the availability of medical transportation services and understanding insurance coverage for transportation costs are also essential steps.

The “Breast Cancer Score” aims to empower individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements. By understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities in Bridgeton, residents can proactively address potential barriers to care and ensure they have access to the medical services they need. This score is a call to action, urging stakeholders to work together to improve healthcare access and create a more equitable and supportive environment for all residents.