08034, Cherry Hill, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 08034, Cherry Hill, New Jersey is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.28 percent of residents in 08034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 5.25 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 08034

Considering a move to Cherry Hill, New Jersey, ZIP code 08034? Beyond the allure of suburban living and the vibrant local scene, a crucial aspect of your decision should be healthcare access, particularly if you or a loved one manage hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape and healthcare facilities within and around 08034, providing a "Hypertension Score" to assess the ease with which you can access necessary medical care. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, focusing on how efficiently you can reach facilities equipped to manage hypertension.

The 08034 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Cherry Hill, a township known for its well-maintained infrastructure and proximity to Philadelphia. However, the ease of accessing healthcare, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension, varies depending on your location within the ZIP code and your preferred mode of transportation. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is paramount when evaluating the practicality of moving to this area.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, navigating 08034 and its surrounding areas primarily involves major roadways. The New Jersey Turnpike, a vital artery, runs nearby, offering swift access to healthcare facilities further afield, but potentially adding tolls and congestion to your commute. The Atlantic City Expressway provides another option, particularly for reaching facilities in the southern part of the state.

Within 08034, Route 70 and Route 38 are major east-west thoroughfares, connecting residents to various medical centers, specialist offices, and pharmacies. Route 73, running north-south, offers another crucial link. Drive times to healthcare facilities within Cherry Hill are generally reasonable, often ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, peak hours can significantly extend these times, particularly along Route 70 and Route 38.

For example, a drive from the eastern edge of 08034 to Virtua Voorhees Hospital, a major healthcare provider with comprehensive cardiology services, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Conversely, reaching facilities in Philadelphia, like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), might take 30-45 minutes, influenced by traffic on the Walt Whitman Bridge and the city's internal road network.

**Public Transit: The Bus and Rail Network**

Public transportation provides an alternative, particularly for those who prefer to avoid driving or who may not have access to a vehicle. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system serves 08034, offering several routes that connect to various healthcare facilities. Routes 400, 404, and 450 are particularly relevant, providing access to hospitals, medical offices, and pharmacies within Cherry Hill and surrounding areas.

However, public transit in this area may present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Bus schedules can be infrequent, especially during off-peak hours, potentially increasing travel times and making it difficult to maintain a regular healthcare routine. While most NJT buses are ADA-accessible, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility limitations, travel times can be significantly longer than driving.

The PATCO (Port Authority Transit Corporation) High-Speed Line, a rapid transit rail system, offers another option. The Cherry Hill station provides access to Philadelphia and Camden, where numerous healthcare facilities are located. While PATCO offers a faster commute to Philadelphia compared to driving or taking the bus, it requires a connection to a bus or ride-sharing service to reach specific healthcare locations within Cherry Hill.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: On-Demand Healthcare Access**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in 08034. These services provide a convenient option for accessing healthcare facilities, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Ride-sharing offers on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to rely on fixed bus schedules or the availability of family and friends.

However, ride-sharing costs can add up, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Therefore, relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access may not be the most cost-effective or reliable option for individuals managing hypertension.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar and Liberty Medical Transportation, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with significant mobility limitations, they typically require advance booking and may be more expensive than ride-sharing services.

**Healthcare Facilities and Hypertension Management**

08034 and its surrounding areas boast a diverse range of healthcare facilities. Virtua Voorhees Hospital is a major regional provider, offering comprehensive cardiology services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of hypertension. Jefferson Health, with its various locations, also provides excellent healthcare access. Numerous primary care physicians, cardiologists, and specialists are located throughout Cherry Hill, ensuring convenient access to medical care.

Pharmacies are readily available, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as local pharmacies. These pharmacies offer medication refills, blood pressure monitoring services, and counseling on hypertension management. Access to pharmacies is generally good, with many located within easy driving distance or accessible via public transit.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score**

To calculate a "Hypertension Score" for 08034, we consider several factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to a major cardiology center (e.g., Virtua Voorhees Hospital) and a primary care physician within the ZIP code.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency and reliability of NJT bus routes and PATCO access to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The estimated cost and availability of Uber/Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and cost of specialized medical transportation services.
* **Healthcare Facility Density:** The number of cardiology practices, primary care physicians, and pharmacies within the ZIP code.

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for 08034 would be a moderate to good rating. While drive times are generally reasonable, and healthcare facilities are readily available, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit could pose challenges for some individuals. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options improves the overall score, providing alternative transportation solutions.

**Moving to Cherry Hill: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Cherry Hill, ZIP code 08034, presents a favorable environment for individuals managing hypertension. The availability of healthcare facilities, the proximity to Philadelphia, and the overall infrastructure contribute to a good healthcare access rating. However, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and preferences.

While driving offers the most flexibility, public transit and ride-sharing services provide viable alternatives. Understanding the nuances of transportation options, healthcare facility locations, and personal needs is crucial when making a decision about moving to this area. By carefully assessing the "Hypertension Score" and the factors that influence it, individuals can make an informed decision about whether 08034 is the right place to call home. Ultimately, the ability to access timely and convenient healthcare is essential for managing hypertension and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.