08066, Paulsboro, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 08066, Paulsboro, New Jersey is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.87 percent of residents in 08066 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 9.72 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Paulsboro, NJ (ZIP Code 08066)

The journey to maintaining optimal health, particularly managing hypertension, is often intertwined with the practicalities of accessing healthcare. For residents of Paulsboro, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08066), this involves a complex interplay of transportation options and the availability of medical resources. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" for Paulsboro, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services, considering the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Paulsboro**, as it provides a crucial understanding of **healthcare access** within the community.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a formal medical metric, but rather a composite assessment of factors influencing a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation hurdles and opportunities that Paulsboro residents face when managing hypertension.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Automotive Landscape**

For many Paulsboro residents, the automobile is the primary mode of **transportation**. The town's location in Gloucester County, New Jersey, presents a mix of advantages and disadvantages in terms of road access. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities include Interstate 295 (I-295), Route 130, and Route 44.

Driving to nearby hospitals like Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, approximately a 10-15 minute drive via Route 130 and then I-295, is a common route. This journey, while relatively short, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The condition of these roadways, and the potential for accidents, can significantly impact the timeliness of healthcare access.

Accessing hospitals in Philadelphia, such as Jefferson Health or Penn Medicine, requires a longer commute, typically 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This involves navigating I-295, the Walt Whitman Bridge, and city streets. This extended commute necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent medical appointments or face urgent health situations.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transit in Paulsboro, while present, is limited in scope. The primary provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit), offering bus routes that connect Paulsboro to surrounding towns and cities. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a significant constraint for patients needing regular medical appointments.

Specific routes serving Paulsboro include the 402 and 409 buses. The 402 route provides connections to Woodbury and Philadelphia, while the 409 route links Paulsboro to Glassboro and other areas. The availability of these routes, and their adherence to schedules, is crucial for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor for many users. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible buses, but the reliability of these features and the availability of accessible stops are essential considerations. For individuals with mobility limitations, the availability of accessible transit is a key determinant of their **healthcare access**.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Paulsboro, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable resource. These services, such as CareRide or MedRide, often provide door-to-door service and may be covered by insurance. Investigating the availability and coverage of these services is a crucial step in assessing the overall **transportation** landscape.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score: A Holistic View**

The "Hypertension Score" for Paulsboro, based on the above factors, would be moderate. While the town benefits from its proximity to major roadways and healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges.

For individuals **moving to Paulsboro**, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their access to a vehicle, and their comfort level with public transit or ride-sharing services. Understanding the availability of medical transportation services and the associated costs is also crucial.

The quality of **healthcare access** is also determined by the availability of medical facilities in and around Paulsboro. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within a reasonable distance is critical for managing hypertension effectively.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure. It can be improved by community initiatives that enhance public transit, promote ride-sharing programs, and expand the availability of medical transportation services. Furthermore, efforts to educate residents about available resources and to streamline access to healthcare appointments can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals managing hypertension in Paulsboro. The goal is to ensure that all residents have equal opportunity to receive the care they need, regardless of their **transportation** constraints.