08016, Burlington, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08016, Burlington, New Jersey is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.04 percent of residents in 08016 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Willingboro Hospital with a distance of 1.12 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burlington, NJ (ZIP Code 08016)

Relocating to Burlington, New Jersey, presents a tapestry of new beginnings, a fresh start woven with the promise of community and a slower pace of life. Yet, the practicalities of settling in, especially concerning healthcare access, demand careful consideration. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," focuses on transportation options and their impact on accessing lung cancer treatment within the 08016 ZIP code, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding for residents and prospective movers. The score isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation, emphasizing the complexities of healthcare access in this specific geographic context.

The paramount concern for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to quality medical care. This includes diagnostic imaging, specialist consultations, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The efficiency and reliability of transportation directly influence these critical factors, potentially impacting treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. The journey to healthcare, therefore, becomes an integral part of the patient's experience.

**Driving Directions: The Road to Treatment**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare in and around Burlington are the major highways. Route 130, a busy thoroughfare, serves as a crucial north-south corridor. Driving south on Route 130 offers direct access to several medical facilities, including Virtua Memorial Hospital of Burlington County in Mount Holly. The drive, depending on traffic, typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes.

The New Jersey Turnpike, a toll road, provides a faster, though more expensive, option. Accessing the Turnpike from Burlington often involves navigating local roads like High Street or Jacksonville Road. This route offers quicker access to major hospitals in Philadelphia, such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, with drive times averaging 30 to 45 minutes, barring rush-hour congestion.

Interstate 295, a major north-south highway, offers another alternative. Accessing I-295 from Burlington involves navigating local roads like Burlington-Mount Holly Road. This route also provides access to Philadelphia hospitals and healthcare facilities in South Jersey, like Cooper University Hospital in Camden. Drive times are similar to those using the Turnpike.

Local roads, such as Columbus Road and Wood Street, provide access to smaller medical offices and urgent care centers within Burlington. These routes are generally less congested but may not offer the same level of specialized care found at larger hospitals.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation presents a valuable, albeit sometimes challenging, alternative for those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider in the area is the New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit). Several bus routes serve Burlington and connect it to surrounding towns and cities.

The 407 bus route, for instance, connects Burlington to Philadelphia, making stops at various locations, including the Walter Rand Transportation Center in Camden, where connections to other bus and rail lines are available. The trip can take up to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and connections.

The 406 bus route provides service to Trenton, the state capital, with connections to the River Line light rail, which can be used to access healthcare facilities in Camden and other areas. The 406 bus ride to Trenton takes approximately one hour.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor for those with mobility limitations. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible buses and trains, with features like ramps, lifts, and priority seating. However, the availability of these features on every bus and the ease of navigating transfer points can vary.

The River Line light rail, which runs along the Delaware River, offers another option for accessing healthcare facilities in Camden and Trenton. The Burlington River Line station is located near the Burlington-Bristol Bridge. The light rail is generally accessible, with level boarding and designated seating areas.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option, particularly for door-to-door transportation. Availability and pricing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited service. Ride-sharing provides a flexible alternative to public transit, offering a more personalized experience.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to the needs of patients requiring assistance. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several companies operate in the area, including but not limited to:

* **American Medical Response (AMR)**: A national provider with local operations.
* **Liberty Medical Transportation**: A regional provider.
* **CareRide Transportation**: A local provider.

These services are often covered by insurance, but prior authorization may be required. They offer a valuable lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transit.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights that healthcare access in Burlington, NJ (08016) is not a simple equation. It's a complex interplay of transportation options, travel times, accessibility features, and the availability of specialized medical services. While Burlington offers a range of transportation choices, each has its limitations. Driving provides flexibility but can be impacted by traffic. Public transit offers an affordable alternative but may involve longer travel times and transfers. Ride-sharing and medical transport provide convenience but can be more expensive.

The availability of lung cancer specialists, diagnostic imaging centers, and treatment facilities within a reasonable distance is also crucial. While Burlington has local medical offices and urgent care centers, access to comprehensive cancer care often requires traveling to larger hospitals in Philadelphia or South Jersey.

**Moving to Burlington: Informed Decisions**

For those considering moving to Burlington, understanding these transportation and healthcare access factors is essential. Prospective residents should research the location of healthcare facilities, assess their preferred mode of transportation, and consider the potential impact on their healthcare journey.

Furthermore, individuals with existing health conditions, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments, should carefully evaluate the accessibility and reliability of available transportation options. This includes assessing the proximity of public transit stops, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transportation.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making when it comes to healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape and the location of medical resources, residents and prospective movers can navigate the healthcare system more effectively and ensure timely access to the care they need. This knowledge can contribute to a smoother transition to Burlington, allowing individuals to embrace the community and lifestyle while prioritizing their health and well-being.