08225, Northfield, New Jersey COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 08225, Northfield, New Jersey is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.14 percent of residents in 08225 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shore Medical Center with a distance of 4.44 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08225 (Northfield, NJ)**

The air hangs heavy, a familiar sensation for those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up assesses the ease of accessing healthcare from Northfield, New Jersey (ZIP code 08225), specifically considering transportation options. For someone contemplating moving to Northfield with COPD, understanding these logistics is paramount. A high "COPD Score" indicates readily available and accessible healthcare options, factoring in drive times, public transit, and other transportation modalities.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Northfield is Atlanticare Regional Medical Center, Mainland Campus, located in nearby Pomona. Driving is the most common mode of transportation. From central Northfield, the journey typically involves navigating the Garden State Parkway, a toll road, or Route 9, a more local thoroughfare. The Parkway offers a faster, albeit pricier, route.

During off-peak hours, the drive to Atlanticare is a breezy 10-15 minutes via the Parkway. Route 9, with its traffic lights and potential congestion, might extend this to 20-25 minutes. Rush hour, especially weekday mornings and late afternoons, can significantly increase these times. For individuals with COPD, even short delays can be taxing.

Public transportation presents an alternative. The Atlantic City Jitney Association operates a network of buses throughout Atlantic County. Route 505, while not directly serving Northfield, offers connections to other routes that may get you closer to healthcare facilities. However, these routes often involve transfers and longer travel times.

Accessibility features on Jitney buses are crucial. All Jitney buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring ADA compliance. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a concern. Waiting at a bus stop in the elements, especially during extreme temperatures, can exacerbate COPD symptoms.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Northfield. These offer a more convenient, door-to-door service compared to public transit. However, the cost can be a factor, and availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability. Patients with COPD often require frequent medical appointments, and the ongoing expense of ride-sharing needs consideration.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized option. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often pre-scheduled and can provide a more comfortable and reliable transportation experience for individuals with COPD. However, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "COPD Score" for Northfield, considering transportation options, is moderate. While Atlanticare is relatively close, the reliance on driving or less-than-ideal public transit options presents challenges. The Parkway provides a quick route, but the toll adds to the cost. Route 9 is free, but traffic congestion can be a problem.

The Jitney offers an affordable alternative, but the frequency and potential for transfers are downsides. Ride-sharing provides convenience, but cost and availability are potential barriers. Medical transport services offer a comfortable experience, but they are the most expensive.

For someone with COPD considering moving to Northfield, careful planning is essential. Factors to consider include the frequency of medical appointments, financial resources, and personal preferences. Living near a major road, like the Parkway or Route 9, could significantly improve healthcare access.

Individuals with COPD should also explore the availability of telehealth services. Remote consultations with healthcare providers can reduce the need for frequent travel. This is particularly beneficial during inclement weather or when transportation options are limited.

The "COPD Score" is not a static number. It can fluctuate based on individual circumstances and changes in transportation infrastructure. For instance, the construction of new bus routes or the expansion of ride-sharing services could improve the score.

In conclusion, while Northfield offers reasonable healthcare access, individuals with COPD must carefully evaluate their transportation needs. A proactive approach, including exploring all available options and planning accordingly, is key to ensuring successful healthcare access in this coastal community. The ability to get to and from medical appointments safely and efficiently is crucial for managing COPD effectively.