08020, Clarksboro, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08020, Clarksboro, New Jersey is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.81 percent of residents in 08020 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 10.89 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Clarksboro, NJ (ZIP Code 08020)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and reliable healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 08020 (Clarksboro, NJ), evaluating its impact on a hypothetical patient’s journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a picture of healthcare access in this South Jersey community. This information could prove invaluable for anyone considering moving to Clarksboro, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

Our primary concern is the timely delivery of care. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes. The ability to reach a qualified medical facility quickly is paramount. This analysis, therefore, is framed around the practicalities of getting to healthcare providers from various points within Clarksboro, specifically focusing on the most likely destinations for lung cancer care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

Clarksboro's location in Gloucester County offers a mix of accessibility and potential challenges. The primary artery for vehicular travel is **Interstate 295**. This major north-south highway provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers in the region. Driving south on I-295 offers access to facilities in Delaware, while heading north provides access to Philadelphia.

The journey to **Inspira Medical Center Woodbury**, a key regional hospital, typically involves a short drive. From most points in Clarksboro, the trip is primarily via **Route 322** or **Route 45** to I-295 North, then a brief drive to the hospital. The drive time is generally under 15 minutes, making it a relatively convenient option for emergency care or routine appointments.

For specialized lung cancer care, patients might need to travel further. **Cooper University Hospital in Camden** offers comprehensive oncology services. The drive to Cooper, however, is more complex. The most direct route involves taking I-295 North to the **Walt Whitman Bridge**, a toll bridge, then navigating the city streets. This journey can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour can significantly extend this travel time, potentially impacting the promptness of care.

Another option is **Jefferson Health in Washington Township**, which is accessible via I-295 South to Route 42. The drive time to Jefferson is usually around 20-30 minutes.

The availability of personal vehicles is a significant factor in healthcare access. Those without a car face greater challenges, highlighting the importance of alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation in Clarksboro is limited but exists. The **New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit)** system provides bus service in the area. The primary routes serving the region are the **402** and **406** buses. These routes, while offering a connection to larger transportation hubs, are not ideal for quick access to medical facilities.

The 402 route travels along Route 322, offering a connection to Woodbury and other towns. The 406 route offers service to Philadelphia. However, the frequency of these buses is often limited, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving.

Accessibility is a critical consideration for those with mobility limitations. NJ Transit buses are equipped with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the reliance on bus schedules and the potential for transfers can still present challenges for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms.

The lack of direct public transit to major hospitals is a significant drawback. Patients relying on public transportation may need to combine bus travel with ride-sharing services or taxis, adding to the complexity and cost of their healthcare journey. This can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with limited financial resources.

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

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in Clarksboro, providing a more flexible transportation option than public transit. The availability of these services, however, can vary depending on the time of day and demand. During peak hours or in less populated areas, wait times can be longer, and prices can increase.

For patients needing regular transportation to and from treatment, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly become prohibitive. This underscores the importance of considering the financial implications of transportation when planning for healthcare needs.

Medical transportation services offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **LogistiCare** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance they will travel. The availability and cost of these services vary depending on the patient’s insurance coverage and the specific medical requirements.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Evaluating the transportation landscape in Clarksboro for lung cancer patients requires a holistic approach. The Lung Cancer Score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare.

The score for Clarksboro is, therefore, moderate. The proximity to major highways like I-295 provides relatively quick access to some medical facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs and wait times associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Clarksboro, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Factors to consider include the availability of a personal vehicle, the ability to afford ride-sharing services, and the potential reliance on medical transportation.

The location of the patient within Clarksboro also matters. Those living closer to major roadways will have better access to transportation options.

**Conclusion: Planning for the Future**

The transportation infrastructure in Clarksboro, while adequate for some, presents potential obstacles for lung cancer patients. The key takeaway is the need for proactive planning. Patients should familiarize themselves with all available transportation options, including drive times, public transit schedules, and ride-sharing availability.

Those considering moving to Clarksboro should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the accessibility of medical facilities. This includes researching the availability of specialized lung cancer care, the proximity of hospitals, and the reliability of transportation options.

Ultimately, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is crucial for ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation challenges and opportunities in Clarksboro, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.