08021, Clementon, New Jersey COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 08021, Clementon, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.69 percent of residents in 08021 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Jersey Hospital with a distance of 5.67 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08021**

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental right, becomes a complex equation for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In ZIP code 08021, encompassing the borough of Clementon, New Jersey, this equation hinges on the availability and efficiency of transportation. Assessing the "COPD Score" necessitates a thorough examination of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial factors influencing healthcare access for residents, particularly those considering moving to Clementon.

The primary challenge for residents of 08021 is the reliance on personal vehicles. Driving times to healthcare facilities, the core component of the COPD Score, fluctuate significantly based on traffic patterns. The closest major hospital, Jefferson Stratford Hospital, is roughly a 15-20 minute drive during off-peak hours. This journey typically involves navigating the often-congested White Horse Pike (Route 30), a major artery connecting Clementon to surrounding towns.

During rush hour, the drive can easily extend to 30-45 minutes, a significant burden for COPD patients who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue. Alternative routes, such as Blackwood-Clementon Road, offer some relief, but these roads are also subject to traffic, especially near intersections. The efficiency of these routes directly impacts the COPD Score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical appointments.

Public transportation, while present, presents another layer of complexity. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service to and from Clementon, but frequency and route coverage are limited. The primary route serving the area is the 403 bus, which connects Clementon to Camden and other points in the region. However, the 403, while offering a connection to Cooper University Hospital in Camden, often involves multiple transfers and can take up to an hour or more to reach a hospital.

The 403 bus, like other NJT routes, is equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial aspect of the COPD Score, as it directly addresses the accessibility needs of COPD patients. However, the longer travel times and potential for crowded conditions can still pose challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible, albeit often more expensive, transportation option. While readily available in the 08021 area, the cost can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather, is another factor to consider when calculating the COPD Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with mobility limitations, provide a valuable alternative. Companies like Liberty Healthcare and SeniorCare Transportation offer door-to-door service, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while convenient, typically require advance booking and can be costly.

The COPD Score must also consider the location of specialized healthcare providers. Access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is critical for COPD management. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance is a significant factor in determining the overall score.

For residents of 08021, the nearest pulmonologists are often located in hospitals and medical centers in Stratford, Voorhees, and Camden. The commute times to these specialists directly impact the COPD Score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing specialized care.

The overall COPD Score for 08021 is, therefore, a mixed bag. While the area benefits from proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but at a cost.

Individuals considering moving to Clementon, especially those with COPD, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. The COPD Score provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in the area, enabling informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The COPD Score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that must be regularly updated to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, service availability, and healthcare provider locations. As Clementon continues to evolve, so too will the factors that shape the COPD Score, impacting the healthcare access for all its residents.