08052, Maple Shade, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 08052, Maple Shade, New Jersey is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.53 percent of residents in 08052 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 5.64 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Maple Shade (08052)

Considering a move to Maple Shade, New Jersey (ZIP code 08052)? Beyond the charming suburban aesthetic and proximity to Philadelphia, understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential medical care, focusing on transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a nuanced perspective on navigating healthcare within and beyond the 08052 ZIP code.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in proximity to medical facilities. Maple Shade boasts a relatively convenient location, with several hospitals and clinics within a reasonable radius. However, the reality of transportation significantly impacts the practical accessibility of these resources. For those with hypertension, timely access to medication refills, routine check-ups, and potential emergency care is crucial. The following sections delve into the various transportation modalities available to Maple Shade residents, assessing their strengths and weaknesses in the context of healthcare access.

**Driving: The Dominant Mode**

For many, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. In Maple Shade, this holds true for accessing healthcare. The major roadways that shape healthcare access are crucial. The primary artery is **Route 73**, a north-south thoroughfare that offers direct access to various medical facilities. Heading south on Route 73, you can reach Virtua Voorhees Hospital, typically a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive services, including cardiology departments crucial for hypertension management.

**Interstate 295** offers another critical route. This highway provides access to hospitals further afield, but with potentially longer drive times. Heading north on I-295, you can reach Cooper University Hospital in Camden, a drive that could range from 20-30 minutes, again, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers specialized cardiology services and a wide array of specialists. **Route 38** provides another avenue for healthcare access, connecting to facilities in Cherry Hill and beyond.

During peak traffic hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes, drive times can significantly increase. This is a critical factor for individuals with hypertension, as delays can impact timely access to medication or appointments. The "Hypertension Score" reflects this by considering the variability in drive times based on traffic conditions. We assess the average drive times during off-peak hours and factor in potential delays during rush hour.

**Public Transportation: A Limited but Viable Option**

While driving is the dominant mode, public transportation offers an alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The **New Jersey Transit (NJT)** provides bus service in Maple Shade. Several bus routes serve the area, including the **406** and **404** routes, which connect to nearby towns and cities. These routes offer connections to larger transportation hubs, such as the PATCO High-Speed Line, providing access to Philadelphia.

The **406** bus route, for instance, offers a direct connection to the Cherry Hill Mall, where you can transfer to other bus routes or access the PATCO line. The PATCO line then provides access to Philadelphia hospitals. The **404** bus provides access to Camden.

However, public transportation has limitations. The frequency of bus service can be a factor, particularly during evenings and weekends. The "Hypertension Score" considers the frequency of service and the potential for delays. Furthermore, the accessibility of bus stops can be an issue for some individuals, particularly those with mobility limitations. NJT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, but the distance from bus stops to medical facilities is a consideration.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to use public transportation. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area.

In addition to ride-sharing, several medical transportation services cater specifically to patients with healthcare needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The "Hypertension Score" assesses the availability of these services and their cost-effectiveness.

**Medical Transport Brands**

* **Medicaid Transportation:** Medicaid recipients can access transportation services through the state.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Companies:** Companies like LogistiCare or MTM provide transportation services for those with Medicaid or Medicare.
* **Private Medical Transport:** Companies like Senior Ride or FirstLight Home Care provide transportation for private pay clients.

**Assessing the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for Maple Shade (08052) is a composite score, considering several factors. Drive times to hospitals and clinics, accounting for traffic variations, form a core component. The accessibility and frequency of public transportation, including ADA compliance, are factored in. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services are also considered.

The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation options. The "Hypertension Score" is designed to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Moving to Maple Shade presents a favorable environment for healthcare access, particularly with the availability of personal vehicles. However, individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their transportation options, considering the limitations of public transportation and the potential for traffic delays. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for assessing these factors, enabling residents to navigate healthcare access effectively. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure timely access to essential medical care.