08329, Mauricetown, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08329, Mauricetown, New Jersey is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.75 percent of residents in 08329 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Inspira Medical Center Vineland with a distance of 11.70 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mauricetown, NJ (ZIP Code 08329)

Mauricetown, New Jersey, a charming village nestled in the heart of Cumberland County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, the serenity of this locale must be weighed against its healthcare access, particularly for residents facing a diagnosis of lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for ZIP code 08329, focusing on transportation options to vital medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those battling this serious illness.

For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, timely access to specialized care is paramount. Treatment often involves frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and consultations with oncologists, pulmonologists, and surgeons. The ability to reliably reach these appointments without undue stress or delays is crucial for both physical and emotional well-being. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents of Mauricetown when navigating the healthcare landscape.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

The primary mode of transportation for most Mauricetown residents is the personal vehicle. Several hospitals and cancer treatment centers are within a reasonable driving distance, though travel times can vary significantly depending on traffic and road conditions. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Vineland and Bridgeton.

To reach Inspira Medical Center Vineland, a common destination for cancer care, the most direct route involves taking **Route 49 East** to **Delsea Drive (Route 47) North**. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this commute. Rural roads like **Main Street** in Mauricetown and **East Main Street** in Millville can be slower going.

For those seeking care at CompleteCare Health Network in Bridgeton, the journey involves **Route 49 West** to **Route 77 South**. This drive generally takes about 25-35 minutes, with similar traffic considerations. Smaller roads like **Bayside Road** offer alternative routes, but can be less direct and potentially more challenging to navigate, especially for patients with mobility issues or those feeling unwell.

Other options further afield include hospitals in Atlantic City, requiring a drive of approximately an hour along **Route 49 East** to the **Atlantic City Expressway**. While offering a broader range of specialized services, the extended travel time and potential for traffic congestion on the expressway can pose significant challenges for patients undergoing treatment. The best choice depends on the patient's needs, and the availability of specialized care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Mauricetown are extremely limited. The primary provider, the **New Jersey Transit (NJT)**, offers bus services in Cumberland County, but these routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Mauricetown. The **Route 551** bus, while running through nearby Bridgeton, does not extend into the village.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The limited service frequency and potential for lengthy travel times make public transit a less viable option for frequent medical appointments, especially for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. ADA accessibility features on the buses are available, but the lack of routes and limited service hours remain a significant hurdle.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients facing ongoing medical expenses. The limited availability of drivers in rural areas can also lead to longer wait times, adding to the stress of healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance companies and specialized non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a more reliable option for patients who require assistance with transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door service and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or other medical needs. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, especially for same-day appointments. The need to book in advance is a factor to consider.

**Medical Transport Brands and Services:**

* **MedStar Ambulance:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Atlantic Ambulance:** Offers ambulance and NEMT services.
* **Various private NEMT companies:** Many smaller companies provide transportation for medical appointments.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Mauricetown (08329)**

Considering all factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Mauricetown (08329) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While driving times to nearby medical facilities are generally manageable, the lack of public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services create significant challenges for some residents.

The score is influenced by the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate – Travel times to Vineland and Bridgeton are reasonable, but can be affected by traffic.
* **Public Transit:** Poor – Limited bus service with no direct routes to Mauricetown.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Fair – Availability can be inconsistent, and costs can be high.
* **Medical Transport:** Fair – Available, but can be costly and require advance booking.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access for lung cancer patients in Mauricetown requires a multi-faceted approach. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanded bus routes and potentially demand-response services, would significantly benefit residents. Partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies could offer discounted transportation options for patients. Further, exploring grant opportunities to support the expansion of NEMT services and reduce costs would be beneficial.

**Moving to Mauricetown with Lung Cancer:**

For individuals considering moving to Mauricetown with a lung cancer diagnosis, careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access is crucial. The relative isolation of the area necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare management. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician, researching available treatment options, and developing a reliable transportation plan are essential steps. The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations can also provide invaluable assistance.

**Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mauricetown highlights the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of transportation must be addressed to ensure that all residents, especially those battling lung cancer, can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical component of successful healthcare management, and ongoing efforts to improve access will contribute significantly to the well-being of the community.