08004, Atco, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08004, Atco, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.39 percent of residents in 08004 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Jersey Hospital with a distance of 6.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Atco, NJ (ZIP Code 08004)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and decisive action. For residents of Atco, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08004), the ability to access timely and effective healthcare is paramount. This write-up explores the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options, meticulously examining the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**, particularly for those considering **moving to Atco**. We'll assess the 'Lung Cancer Score' – a composite measure reflecting the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical facilities.

Atco, nestled in Camden County, presents a unique **transportation** challenge. While offering a tranquil suburban lifestyle, its proximity to major medical centers is not always straightforward. The 'Lung Cancer Score' considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** methods, offering a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access**.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries connecting Atco to specialized lung cancer treatment centers are the Atlantic City Expressway (ACE) and the Black Horse Pike (Route 322). Driving to major hospitals like Cooper University Hospital in Camden, or Virtua Voorhees Hospital, typically involves a combination of these routes. The ACE, a toll road, offers the most direct route to Philadelphia-area hospitals, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

A journey to Cooper University Hospital, a prominent cancer treatment center, can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, Virtua Voorhees, another reputable option, is usually a 20 to 40-minute drive. These estimates assume moderate traffic conditions. Rush hour, accidents, or inclement weather can easily double these times, posing a significant hurdle for patients requiring urgent care or frequent appointments.

The Black Horse Pike, a more local thoroughfare, provides an alternative route, albeit with more traffic lights and potential delays. This route is often preferred for accessing smaller clinics and specialist offices closer to Atco. The overall drive-time component of the 'Lung Cancer Score' reflects these variables, weighting the impact of traffic and distance on **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public **transportation** in Atco, while present, offers limited options for reaching specialized lung cancer treatment centers. The primary provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. Several bus routes, including the 551 and 554, serve the area, connecting to larger transit hubs and eventually to hospitals.

The 551 route, for example, travels through Atco and connects to the PATCO High-Speed Line, providing access to Philadelphia hospitals. However, this journey involves multiple transfers, adding significant travel time. The 554 route offers a more direct connection to Camden, but still requires navigating multiple stops and potential delays.

The accessibility of public transit is also a crucial factor. While NJT buses are generally equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and priority seating, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can be challenging for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment. The 'Lung Cancer Score' considers the impact of these factors on **healthcare access**, recognizing that public transit may not be a viable option for all patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. These services provide door-to-door **transportation**, eliminating the need for transfers and potentially reducing travel time. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR), specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, catering specifically to patients with mobility limitations. While these services provide a valuable resource, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' incorporates the availability and affordability of these alternative **transportation** options, acknowledging their role in improving **healthcare access** for those facing lung cancer. The score considers the potential financial strain and the convenience factor associated with each method.

**The 'Lung Cancer Score' in Context:**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Atco (08004) reflects a nuanced picture. While the area offers access to reputable cancer treatment centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** present challenges. Drive times can be substantial, especially during peak hours. Public transit, while available, often involves lengthy travel times and multiple transfers.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers alternative options, but their cost can be prohibitive for some patients. The score, therefore, considers the interplay of these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of **healthcare access** for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer.

For those considering **moving to Atco**, the 'Lung Cancer Score' serves as a critical data point. It highlights the importance of carefully evaluating **transportation** needs and planning for potential travel times to medical appointments. Prospective residents should factor in the costs of **transportation**, the availability of support networks, and the potential impact of travel on their overall well-being.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in **transportation** infrastructure, public transit schedules, and the availability of medical services. It underscores the critical link between **transportation**, **healthcare access**, and the quality of life for residents of Atco, New Jersey, facing the daunting challenge of lung cancer. It's a call to action for improving public transit, promoting affordable medical **transportation**, and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to life-saving care.