08904, Highland Park, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08904, Highland Park, New Jersey is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.52 percent of residents in 08904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital with a distance of 1.71 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08904**

Highland Park, New Jersey, nestled along the Raritan River in Middlesex County, presents a unique landscape for assessing breast cancer healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 08904, considers the critical element of transportation, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability to determine a "Breast Cancer Score." This score reflects the ease with which residents can access essential breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment services. For those considering moving to Highland Park, understanding this score is paramount.

The foundation of healthcare access is efficient transportation. For many residents, this translates to driving. The primary arteries influencing healthcare commutes are the heavily trafficked Route 18, which can be a challenge during peak hours, and the more direct Route 27, offering a quicker route to destinations south. The Garden State Parkway, although further east, provides another option, but requires navigating local roads to reach medical facilities. Delays caused by traffic, especially during rush hour, can significantly impact the time it takes to reach appointments.

Consider a hypothetical scenario: a resident of Highland Park needs to reach Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, a major regional healthcare provider. During off-peak hours, a drive via Route 18 or Route 27 might take approximately 10-15 minutes. However, during the morning or evening commute, this time can easily double, potentially adding stress and anxiety for someone already facing a health challenge. The New Jersey Turnpike, while offering a fast route, requires tolls and may not always be the most convenient option depending on the specific location within Highland Park.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its efficacy varies. NJ Transit provides bus service, with routes such as the 810 and 811 serving Highland Park. These routes connect to New Brunswick and other nearby towns, offering access to medical facilities. The frequency of these buses, however, can be a limiting factor, and the potential for delays due to traffic congestion remains a concern. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is crucial. NJ Transit buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of transferring between different modes of transport must be considered.

The accessibility of public transportation impacts healthcare access. The availability of accessible routes and the ease of transferring between different modes of transport must be considered. The walk from the bus stop to the medical facility, especially in inclement weather, can be a significant barrier for some patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a flexible transportation option. These services can be particularly valuable for those who do not drive or who prefer not to drive themselves. The availability of ride-sharing in Highland Park is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, like those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, provide a specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. While they offer door-to-door service and can be a lifeline for some, they often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" must weigh these factors. A high score indicates easy access to healthcare facilities, while a low score suggests challenges. Factors such as the proximity of medical facilities, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the cost of transportation all contribute to the score.

For instance, a resident living close to Route 27 and with easy access to a bus stop might have a higher score than someone living further away from major roadways and with limited access to public transit. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services also plays a role, providing alternative options for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond just the physical act of getting to an appointment. It affects patient well-being, treatment adherence, and overall health outcomes. Delays and difficulties in transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to necessary care.

Understanding these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to Highland Park. The availability of transportation options, particularly for those with mobility limitations or other health concerns, can significantly impact their ability to access the healthcare they need.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to ensuring that all residents have equal access to healthcare. It's a call to action for local officials and healthcare providers to address transportation barriers and improve healthcare access for all.

This score must also consider the availability of specialized breast cancer services. The presence of a comprehensive breast center, offering screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services, is crucial. The distance to these facilities and the ease of transportation to them are essential components of the score.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Highland Park (ZIP code 08904) is a complex metric. It considers the interplay of drive times on major highways and roads like Route 18, Route 27, and the Garden State Parkway, public transit options (NJ Transit bus routes, ADA accessibility), ride-share availability, and the presence of medical transportation services. This assessment highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access and provides valuable insights for residents and those considering moving to Highland Park, ultimately influencing the ease with which individuals can navigate the critical journey of breast cancer care.