08053, Marlton, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08053, Marlton, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.64 percent of residents in 08053 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Jersey Hospital with a distance of 2.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marlton, NJ (ZIP Code 08053)

The air hangs heavy with the potential for worry when considering lung cancer, a disease often intertwined with the challenges of healthcare access. For residents of Marlton, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08053), understanding the nuances of transportation options becomes critical in navigating this complex landscape. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare, factoring in commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, all within the context of this specific ZIP code. It's a vital consideration for anyone moving to Marlton or seeking treatment in the area.

The core of our assessment hinges on the drive times to key healthcare facilities. The primary hospitals serving the region include Virtua Marlton Hospital, Jefferson Health Cherry Hill Hospital, and Cooper University Hospital in Camden. From the heart of Marlton, a drive to Virtua Marlton Hospital, located within the ZIP code, is generally a swift affair. Access is primarily via Route 73, a major thoroughfare, with commute times typically ranging from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity significantly boosts the Lung Cancer Score, offering immediate access for urgent needs.

Venturing further afield, the drive to Jefferson Health Cherry Hill Hospital necessitates navigating a slightly more complex network of roads. The journey often begins on Route 73, transitioning onto the heavily trafficked Route 70, and then onto Chapel Avenue West. Depending on the time of day, this commute can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. While not overly burdensome, the potential for delays due to traffic congestion on Route 70 must be factored into the equation, especially for patients requiring frequent appointments or experiencing acute symptoms.

Cooper University Hospital in Camden presents a more considerable transportation challenge. The most direct route typically involves taking Route 73 North, merging onto I-295 South, and then exiting onto Cooper Street. The drive can range from 25 to 45 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions on I-295, a major regional artery prone to bottlenecks. This longer commute, while manageable, underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options for those seeking treatment at Cooper.

Public transit, while present, offers a less robust solution for healthcare access in Marlton. The primary provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. Several routes serve the area, including the 406, 400, and 402, which provide connections to Philadelphia and other regional destinations. However, these routes often involve transfers and may not directly serve all the hospitals mentioned. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor.

The 406 bus, for example, travels along Route 73, offering a potential link to Virtua Marlton Hospital. The 400 and 402 routes, while providing broader connectivity, may require transfers to reach specific healthcare facilities. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration, with NJT striving to provide accessible buses and stations. However, the reliance on multiple transfers and the potential for longer travel times can pose challenges for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue.

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative. These services are readily available in Marlton and can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-sharing is particularly valuable for patients who cannot drive or who require assistance. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, especially with frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients' needs, represent another option. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Services of America specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While potentially more expensive than public transit, they provide a more personalized and reliable transportation solution, particularly for those with specific medical needs.

The Lung Cancer Score for Marlton, NJ (ZIP Code 08053) is moderately positive, reflecting a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. The proximity of Virtua Marlton Hospital offers a significant benefit, boosting the score. However, the longer commute times to Jefferson Health Cherry Hill Hospital and Cooper University Hospital, coupled with the limitations of public transit, detract from the overall score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides crucial backup options, mitigating some of the transportation challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Marlton, or for current residents seeking lung cancer treatment, a thorough evaluation of transportation needs is essential. Careful consideration of drive times, the feasibility of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services is crucial. Prioritizing healthcare access, especially in the face of a serious illness, demands a proactive approach to navigating the transportation landscape. This includes researching the specific routes and services that best meet individual needs and circumstances.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number. It fluctuates based on individual circumstances, the specific healthcare needs of the patient, and the evolving transportation landscape. It serves as a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Marlton, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their care. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that transportation challenges do not become a barrier to receiving timely and effective lung cancer treatment.