08108, Collingswood, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 08108, Collingswood, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.21 percent of residents in 08108 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 1.93 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08108 (Collingswood, NJ)**

The challenge of managing hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, is compounded when access to healthcare is limited. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within ZIP code 08108, the vibrant community of Collingswood, New Jersey, to assess its impact on residents' ability to access essential medical care for hypertension. We'll examine the ease of getting to appointments, pharmacies, and specialized services, providing a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the transportation barriers and opportunities within this area. This information is especially relevant for those considering moving to Collingswood and needing to understand the local healthcare access dynamics.

Collingswood, a charming borough in Camden County, benefits from its proximity to Philadelphia and the Delaware River. Its compact size and walkability contribute to a high quality of life. However, transportation infrastructure plays a crucial role in healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" will consider drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to gauge the ease with which residents can reach vital medical resources.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways influencing healthcare access in Collingswood are significant. Route 130, a major north-south artery, provides direct access to medical facilities in neighboring communities. The Atlantic City Expressway, while not directly traversing Collingswood, is easily accessible via Route 130, offering a faster route to healthcare providers located further south. Interstate 676, also known as the Vine Street Expressway, offers a direct route to Philadelphia's medical centers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. The Virtua Voorhees Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 130, depending on traffic. Cooper University Hospital in Camden, a prominent healthcare provider, is accessible within 10-15 minutes via Route 130 and Admiral Wilson Boulevard. Philadelphia's hospitals, such as Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, are reachable within 20-30 minutes via Interstate 676 and the Walt Whitman Bridge, though rush-hour traffic can significantly extend these times.

Parking availability at these facilities is another factor. While most hospitals offer parking garages, costs and potential congestion should be considered. Residents with mobility limitations should inquire about designated parking areas and accessible routes.

**Public Transit Options:**

Collingswood enjoys a relatively robust public transportation network, primarily served by the New Jersey Transit (NJT) and the PATCO High-Speed Line. The PATCO line is a key asset for healthcare access, with a station conveniently located in Collingswood. This provides direct and rapid access to Philadelphia's medical institutions.

The PATCO line offers service to 13th/Locust, 12th/13th, and 9th/10th Street stations in Philadelphia, all within walking distance of major hospitals. The frequency of PATCO trains, especially during peak hours, makes it a reliable option. The Collingswood PATCO station is fully ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

NJT bus routes also serve Collingswood, connecting it to surrounding communities and healthcare facilities. Route 403 provides access to Cooper University Hospital in Camden, while Route 400 connects to other medical offices in the area. However, bus schedules and travel times can be less predictable than PATCO. ADA accessibility varies across bus routes; residents should check specific route information for details.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who do not drive or have limited mobility. Availability and pricing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation, often including door-to-door service and assistance with mobility devices. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Pharmacies and Medication Access:**

Access to pharmacies is crucial for hypertension management. Collingswood has several pharmacies, including national chains and independent pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription filling, medication counseling, and over-the-counter medications.

The proximity of pharmacies within Collingswood enhances healthcare access. Many pharmacies offer home delivery services, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to travel.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

Collingswood, NJ (ZIP code 08108) receives a moderate "Hypertension Score" due to its multifaceted transportation options. The presence of the PATCO line provides excellent access to Philadelphia's medical centers. The NJT bus network offers additional connectivity, though with less predictability. Drive times are generally manageable, but traffic congestion can impact travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide supplementary options.

The score is influenced by several factors. The walkability of Collingswood and the availability of local pharmacies contribute positively. However, the reliance on roadways and the potential for traffic delays, particularly during peak hours, present challenges.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Utilize the PATCO line:** It's the most efficient way to access Philadelphia's hospitals.
* **Plan for traffic:** Factor in potential delays when driving to appointments.
* **Explore ride-sharing:** Consider Uber or Lyft for non-emergency transportation.
* **Inquire about medical transportation:** Explore services for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Utilize local pharmacies:** Take advantage of the convenience and potential for home delivery.
* **Check ADA accessibility:** Confirm accessibility features for public transit and facilities.

**Conclusion:**

Collingswood offers a favorable environment for healthcare access, particularly for managing hypertension. The combination of public transit, roadways, and ride-sharing services provides residents with multiple options for reaching healthcare providers. While traffic and accessibility considerations exist, the overall transportation landscape supports residents' ability to manage their health effectively. Moving to Collingswood offers a promising balance of community and healthcare access.