08320, Fairton, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 08320, Fairton, New Jersey is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 08320 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Inspira Medical Center Vineland with a distance of 7.05 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08320 (Fairton, NJ)**

Fairton, New Jersey, nestled in the heart of Cumberland County, presents a unique challenge in the context of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 08320, assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. We will explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately offering a “Hypertension Score” to gauge the accessibility of healthcare for those residing in Fairton. This analysis is crucial for anyone considering moving to Fairton, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The primary concern for residents of Fairton is the distance to comprehensive healthcare facilities. The closest major hospital, Inspira Medical Center Vineland, is approximately 15 miles away. This distance translates to a drive time that varies significantly depending on the time of day and the chosen route. The most direct route utilizes **Route 49** East, which, in the absence of heavy traffic, can be traversed in about 25-30 minutes. However, during peak commuting hours, the journey can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour, particularly if there are accidents or roadwork.

Alternative routes involve navigating a network of smaller, less-traveled roads, like **Fairton-Gouldtown Road** and **Millville Road**. While these roads may offer a slightly shorter distance, they often involve more stop signs and slower speed limits, potentially negating any time savings. The condition of these roads can also be a factor, with potholes and uneven surfaces posing a challenge, especially for those with mobility issues or those relying on public transit. The availability of reliable transportation is paramount for managing hypertension, as regular check-ups and medication refills are essential.

Public transportation options in Fairton are limited, posing a significant hurdle for many residents. The primary provider is the **NJ Transit**, but bus service is infrequent and often requires transfers to reach healthcare facilities. The primary bus route serving Fairton is the **551**, which runs between Bridgeton and Atlantic City. While this route does pass through Vineland, it doesn't directly serve Inspira Medical Center. Passengers would need to disembark at a designated stop and arrange for a ride-share or taxi to complete the journey.

The **551** bus does offer some ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for additional transportation to reach the hospital significantly reduce its practicality for those with hypertension. The irregular schedule of the bus, with long wait times, can be particularly challenging for individuals requiring urgent medical attention or those with mobility limitations. The lack of readily available public transit emphasizes the need for alternative transportation solutions for those in Fairton.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing a more flexible transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand. During off-peak hours or in the early morning, it may be difficult to secure a ride, potentially delaying access to medical care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-sharing in Fairton, while present, is not always guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, such as medical transport companies, offer a specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with assistance for those with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited. The need for advance booking and the potential for delays further complicate their use.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Fairton itself is limited. There are a few primary care physicians and some specialized clinics, but they may not offer the full range of services needed for managing hypertension. This necessitates travel to larger facilities, such as Inspira Medical Center Vineland, further complicating the transportation equation. This lack of local resources underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

**Hypertension Score:**

Considering the factors discussed above, the “Hypertension Score” for Fairton, NJ (ZIP code 08320) is **Moderate**. This score reflects the following:

* **Drive Time:** The drive time to the nearest major hospital is manageable under ideal conditions, but can be significantly extended during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Public transit options are limited, infrequent, and require transfers, making them less practical for many residents.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services are available but may be subject to availability and cost constraints.
* **Medical Transportation:** Medical transportation services are available but may be expensive and require advance booking.
* **Local Healthcare:** Limited healthcare resources within Fairton necessitate travel to external facilities.

**Recommendations:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Fairton, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Carefully evaluate your transportation needs and limitations. Consider the frequency of medical appointments and the need for urgent care.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers.
* **Plan for Delays:** Factor in potential delays due to traffic, public transit schedules, or ride-sharing availability.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If possible, prioritize housing options that are closer to healthcare facilities or offer easier access to transportation.
* **Advocate for Improved Services:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transit or expanding healthcare services in the area.

The challenges of healthcare access in Fairton highlight the critical role of transportation in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Understanding these challenges is essential for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to ensure that all individuals have access to the care they need. The overall transportation infrastructure in Fairton requires improvement to better serve the healthcare needs of its residents, especially those with chronic illnesses. The importance of addressing these issues is paramount for improving the health and well-being of the community.