08019, Chatsworth, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08019, Chatsworth, New Jersey is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.25 percent of residents in 08019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Mount Holly Hospital with a distance of 17.34 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chatsworth (ZIP Code 08019)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those battling lung cancer, is a critical component of treatment and survival. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Chatsworth, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08019), offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment of healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transportation services, all vital elements when considering moving to Chatsworth and the realities of cancer treatment.

Chatsworth, a small, rural community nestled in the heart of the Pine Barrens, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The sparse population and vast distances between towns and medical facilities necessitate careful consideration of transportation options. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Chatsworth will reflect the availability and efficiency of these options, highlighting potential obstacles and providing insights for residents and those contemplating a move.

**Drive Times: The Open Road and Its Limitations**

The primary mode of transportation in Chatsworth is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Access to specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities with comprehensive medical facilities. The drive times, therefore, are a crucial factor in our "Lung Cancer Score."

The closest major medical centers with oncology departments are located in the surrounding counties. Driving to Virtua Memorial Hospital in Mount Holly, a common destination for Burlington County residents, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes. This journey involves navigating local roads and potentially encountering traffic on Route 206, the primary north-south artery.

Another key destination is the MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, a renowned cancer treatment facility. The drive to Camden, usually taking 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, involves traversing Route 70 and the often-congested Route 38. This drive can be particularly challenging during peak hours or inclement weather, potentially delaying critical treatment appointments.

For residents seeking care at hospitals in Atlantic County, such as AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City, the drive time can extend to 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This journey typically involves traveling on Route 539 and the Garden State Parkway, offering scenic views but also potential for delays.

The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects these drive times, acknowledging the time commitment and potential stress associated with each trip. The score will be adjusted downward to reflect the challenges of navigating these routes, particularly for patients experiencing fatigue or other side effects of treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Chatsworth are extremely limited, significantly impacting the "Lung Cancer Score." The absence of a robust public transit system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The New Jersey Transit (NJT) system, while offering bus service in some surrounding areas, does not have direct routes that serve Chatsworth. The closest bus stops are in neighboring towns, requiring a significant drive or ride-share to reach. This lack of readily available public transit contributes to a lower "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the cost of private transportation.

The absence of ADA-compliant public transit in the immediate vicinity further compounds the challenges. For individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible transportation options creates additional hurdles in accessing healthcare. The "Lung Cancer Score" must factor in these limitations, reflecting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles, but their availability in Chatsworth is not guaranteed. The rural nature of the area may result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares, impacting the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar Transportation, First Transit, and others operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limitations in terms of coverage and cost.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability and accessibility of ride-share and medical transportation services. While these options provide valuable support, their reliability and affordability will influence the overall score. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden for patients, particularly those undergoing long-term treatment.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Moving to Chatsworth**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Chatsworth, New Jersey, reflects the challenges associated with accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment. The score will be lower due to the limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential difficulties in securing ride-share or medical transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Chatsworth, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical consideration. Potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan for the logistical challenges of accessing healthcare. This includes factoring in drive times, exploring the availability of medical transportation services, and considering the financial implications of transportation costs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not intended to discourage individuals from moving to Chatsworth. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare access landscape, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions and plan for their healthcare needs. The score underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need to secure reliable transportation options to ensure timely and consistent access to vital medical care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Chatsworth highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access. It is not just about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach those facilities efficiently and affordably. This score will be a vital tool for those seeking to understand the healthcare landscape in Chatsworth and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.