The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08609, Trenton, New Jersey is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
70.81 percent of residents in 08609 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 0.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Francis Medical Center with a distance of 0.38 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 08609, Trenton, New Jersey
Lung Cancer Score | 34 |
---|---|
People Score | 5 |
Provider Score | 73 |
Hospital Score | 22 |
Travel Score | 69 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 08609 | Trenton | New Jersey |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 16.17 | 5.28 | 6.31 |
1 Car | 47.06 | 25.08 | 22.51 |
2 Cars | 20.63 | 36.23 | 39.65 |
3 or More Cars | 16.14 | 33.41 | 31.52 |
Vehicular Access in 08609, Trenton, New Jersey
**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Trenton, NJ (ZIP Code 08609)**
The air hangs heavy with the whispers of history and the grit of industry in Trenton, New Jersey, a city grappling with complex challenges, including healthcare access. For those considering a move to the capital city, particularly individuals with or at risk for lung cancer, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the intricate web of transportation options within and around ZIP code 08609, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, a crucial factor for informed decision-making.
The "Lung Cancer Score" considers factors such as drive times to cancer treatment centers, public transit reliability, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease or difficulty of accessing potentially life-saving healthcare, a critical consideration for anyone battling or at risk of this disease.
**Drive Times and Road Networks**
Navigating Trenton's roadways is a daily reality for residents. The primary arteries for transportation include Interstate 295, a major north-south corridor, and Route 1, which runs parallel to the Delaware River. These highways are crucial for reaching healthcare facilities located outside of the immediate ZIP code. For residents in 08609, a drive to Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, a prominent cancer treatment center, can take approximately 20 to 30 minutes via I-295, depending on traffic. Another option, the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, also requires a similar drive time.
Local roads, such as Route 129 and various surface streets, offer alternative routes, but they are often congested, especially during peak hours. The condition of these roads varies, and potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate the challenges for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. For those living in the heart of 08609, the drive to St. Francis Medical Center, located within the city limits, is generally shorter, typically under 10 minutes. However, this facility may not offer the full spectrum of specialized cancer care.
**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag**
Public transportation in Trenton presents a mixed bag of opportunities and limitations. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) operates bus routes that serve the 08609 area, providing a crucial lifeline for those without personal vehicles. Several bus lines, including routes 603, 606, and 607, traverse the area, connecting residents to various destinations, including healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be inconsistent, particularly during evenings and weekends, and the reliability of the service is sometimes questionable.
ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. While NJ Transit strives to provide accessible buses, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can vary. Furthermore, the journey from a bus stop to a healthcare facility can be challenging, especially for patients undergoing treatment or those with limited mobility. The Trenton Transit Center, a central hub for NJ Transit, offers connections to regional rail lines, but the distance from the station to healthcare facilities can still pose a challenge.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**
Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Trenton, offering a convenient alternative to public transportation or driving. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-share vehicles can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or in certain areas of the city.
Specialized medical transportation services cater to the specific needs of patients requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other private providers, offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are usually required. The availability of these services may also be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.
**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**
Considering the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP code 08609 is moderate. While the city offers a variety of transportation options, each presents its own set of challenges. Drive times to cancer treatment centers can be manageable, but traffic congestion and road conditions can impact travel times. Public transportation provides an essential service, but its reliability and accessibility are concerns. Ride-share services offer convenience but come with cost considerations. Specialized medical transportation is available but requires advance planning and can be expensive.
For individuals considering a move to Trenton, especially those with or at risk for lung cancer, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Factors to consider include the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized transportation, and the availability of support networks.
**Implications for Moving to Trenton**
Moving to Trenton requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the city offers some healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized cancer care might necessitate travel to facilities outside the immediate ZIP code. The transportation landscape, therefore, plays a crucial role in determining the feasibility of accessing necessary medical services.
Individuals with lung cancer or at risk should prioritize proximity to cancer treatment centers or ensure reliable and affordable transportation options. They should also investigate the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist with coordinating transportation and navigating the healthcare system.
The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents, providing a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities in Trenton. It underscores the importance of comprehensive planning and informed decision-making to ensure seamless access to healthcare.
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