08011, Birmingham, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08011, Birmingham, New Jersey is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 08011 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Mount Holly Hospital with a distance of 14.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08011

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 08011, focusing on their access to healthcare, considering the multifaceted nature of transportation options available. This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities, ultimately influencing their overall well-being. The assessment encompasses drive times, public transit routes, ride-share services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility within this specific geographic area.

ZIP Code 08011, encompassing parts of Atco, New Jersey, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its suburban character influences transportation dynamics, necessitating a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents seeking medical care. The score considers various factors, including the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of diverse transportation modes, and the specific needs of different population segments. The goal is to provide a practical and insightful overview for residents, potential newcomers considering moving to Birmingham, and policymakers alike.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation in 08011 for accessing healthcare is undoubtedly the automobile. The efficiency of this option hinges on the road network and traffic conditions. Residents typically rely on the Atlantic City Expressway, a major artery providing rapid access to medical centers in surrounding areas. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Access to healthcare facilities in nearby towns like Voorhees or Stratford often involves travel along local roads such as the White Horse Pike (Route 30) and the Berlin-Cross Keys Road. These routes, while offering direct access, are prone to traffic delays, especially during morning and evening commutes. Drive times to these facilities can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic volume and the specific destination.

The distance to larger hospitals, such as those in Philadelphia, necessitates longer travel times, often exceeding 45 minutes, particularly during rush hour. The journey typically involves navigating the Atlantic City Expressway and connecting to major highways like I-95. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring immediate medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation in 08011, while present, offers a limited scope for healthcare access. The primary provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. Several routes serve the area, but their frequency and coverage are not always ideal for medical appointments.

Bus Route 403 provides access to healthcare facilities in nearby towns, but its schedule may not align with the needs of all patients. The frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be infrequent, potentially leading to extended wait times and increased travel durations. Furthermore, the route coverage may not extend to all healthcare providers, limiting the choices available to residents.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. NJT strives to provide accessible services, but the availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations on all buses and at all stops may vary. This variability can pose challenges for individuals with disabilities, potentially hindering their ability to utilize public transportation for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Supplemental Solutions**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for healthcare access in 08011. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility and convenience compared to public transit. However, the availability and cost of ride-share services can fluctuate, impacting their reliability for medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, provide a crucial link to healthcare. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. While the cost of medical transport can be higher than other options, it provides a vital solution for individuals who cannot utilize other modes of transportation.

Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including private ambulance services and specialized transportation companies. These services cater to a range of needs, from routine medical appointments to emergency situations. The availability of these services and their responsiveness are critical factors influencing healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 08011 reflects a mixed picture. While the availability of automobiles and ride-share services provides some degree of flexibility, limitations in public transit and potential traffic congestion pose challenges. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The presence of local clinics and medical offices within the ZIP Code contributes positively to the score. However, the need to travel to larger hospitals in surrounding areas, particularly Philadelphia, reduces the score.
* **Transportation Options:** The availability of diverse transportation modes, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport, enhances the score. The limited scope and frequency of public transit, however, detract from the overall score.
* **Traffic Conditions:** Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, negatively impacts the score. The reliance on major roadways like the Atlantic City Expressway and the White Horse Pike makes residents susceptible to delays.
* **Accessibility:** The accessibility of public transit and ride-share services for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. The availability of ADA-compliant services and the responsiveness of medical transport providers contribute to the score.
* **Cost:** The cost of transportation, including fuel, ride-share fares, and medical transport fees, can impact the score. The financial burden of transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 08011, several recommendations are pertinent. Enhancing public transit, including increasing the frequency of bus routes and expanding their coverage to healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Improving traffic flow on major roadways, such as the Atlantic City Expressway and the White Horse Pike, would also reduce travel times.

Promoting ride-share programs and subsidizing medical transport services for low-income residents could increase healthcare access. Furthermore, increasing the availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP Code, including specialists, would reduce the need for long-distance travel.

For those considering moving to Birmingham, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access within 08011 is crucial. The availability of diverse transportation options, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the potential for traffic congestion should be carefully considered. The "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable framework for evaluating healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement, ultimately contributing to the well-being of the community.