08014, Bridgeport, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08014, Bridgeport, New Jersey is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.97 percent of residents in 08014 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Medical Center with a distance of 14.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08014

This assessment examines the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 08014, focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. Evaluating this crucial aspect is vital for anyone considering moving to Bridgeport, New Jersey, or for existing residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access. The analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, ultimately assigning an Overall Health Score that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical care.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 08014 is likely personal vehicles. The geographic layout of Bridgeport, nestled in Gloucester County, necessitates driving to access many healthcare facilities. Key roadways influencing this are the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), Route 130, and Route 45. Commuting to major hospitals and specialist offices, such as those in nearby Woodbury or Mullica Hill, often involves navigating these routes.

Drive times are significantly affected by traffic, particularly during peak hours. A trip to Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, a major regional hospital, can range from 15 to 30 minutes under normal conditions, but this can easily extend to 45 minutes or more during rush hour on Route 130. Similarly, access to specialist practices in Mullica Hill, a growing medical hub, requires navigating Route 45, which can be congested, adding to the commute time. This travel time directly impacts healthcare access, potentially delaying treatment and increasing stress for patients.

Public transportation options in 08014 are limited. The primary provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT). While bus routes serve the area, they often lack the frequency and directness needed for efficient healthcare access. Route 402, for instance, offers service, but schedules may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Ensuring reliable, accessible public transit is a critical factor in improving the Overall Health Score.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. In a less densely populated area like Bridgeport, wait times for a ride can be longer, and the cost can be a significant barrier for some residents. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially for urgent medical needs, is a key consideration.

Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals requiring assistance beyond standard transportation. These services cater to patients with mobility limitations or those needing stretcher transportation. Companies like MedStar and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering a vital lifeline for those unable to drive or use public transit. The availability and responsiveness of these services contribute significantly to healthcare access.

Assessing the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is also critical. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, urgent care centers, and hospitals within a manageable travel radius directly impacts the Overall Health Score. Proximity to pharmacies for prescription refills is another consideration. The concentration of healthcare resources in neighboring towns, like Woodbury and Mullica Hill, necessitates evaluating the ease of travel to these locations.

The Overall Health Score for 08014 is thus influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of major hospitals and specialist practices within a reasonable driving distance is a positive, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle ownership and maintenance.

Considering these factors, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 08014 is moderate. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for transportation challenges during peak hours and for those with mobility limitations, create barriers. Efforts to improve public transit, increase ride-sharing availability, and expand medical transport services would significantly improve the score.

For someone moving to Bridgeport, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. It is essential to factor in commute times when planning healthcare appointments. Researching the availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable radius and considering the costs of transportation options is recommended. Exploring the possibility of using ride-sharing services or specialized medical transport, if needed, is advisable.

Ultimately, improving the Overall Health Score for 08014 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for improved public transit infrastructure, promoting ride-sharing options, and ensuring the availability of affordable and reliable medical transport services. This collaborative effort between local government, healthcare providers, and transportation companies is vital to ensure that all residents have equal access to essential medical care. The ease of transportation directly impacts the health and well-being of the community.