08079, Salem, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08079, Salem, New Jersey is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.30 percent of residents in 08079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Medical Center with a distance of 7.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08079 (Salem, NJ)

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Salem, New Jersey (ZIP code 08079) presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, heavily influenced by transportation infrastructure. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare services, considering various commuting options and their impact on residents' well-being. The score reflects the ease with which individuals can reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care facilities. The score will be influenced by transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and the associated travel times and potential barriers.

The geography of Salem County, and specifically the area covered by 08079, is largely rural, influencing the availability and distribution of healthcare providers. This necessitates a reliance on transportation, making it a critical factor in healthcare access. The overall health score will therefore be a reflection of the efficiency, affordability, and convenience of transportation options available to residents. The score will also consider the availability of specialized services and the potential for health disparities based on transportation limitations.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for many Salem residents is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars significantly impacts the overall health score. Commuting times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the road network. Major roadways like **Route 45** and **Route 49** serve as vital arteries, connecting Salem to surrounding towns and cities where hospitals and specialist practices are located. **Route 40** provides another important route, especially for travel eastward.

Driving to the nearest hospital, **Inspira Medical Center Woodbury**, located approximately 15 miles away in Woodbury, can take anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. This drive typically involves navigating Route 45 or Route 49 and then connecting to **Interstate 295 (I-295)**.

Specialist appointments and access to advanced medical procedures often necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Philadelphia, approximately 40 miles away. This journey typically involves taking I-295 North or the **New Jersey Turnpike** and can take upwards of an hour, especially during rush hour. The time commitment can be a significant barrier for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Salem County, while present, presents limitations, influencing the overall health score. The **New Jersey Transit (NJT)** operates bus routes that serve the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends.

**NJT Route 400** provides service to Salem, but the schedule may not align with the needs of those seeking medical care. The route primarily connects Salem to Bridgeton and Millville, and from there, connections to other routes are available. The lack of direct routes to major medical centers and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time and add to the burden of healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on NJT buses is generally provided. However, the availability of accessible stops and the physical environment of some bus stops may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

The availability of public transportation, though present, does not fully meet the needs of the community, thereby impacting the overall health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering another transportation option. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas, and the cost can be prohibitive for some residents. The reliability of these services is crucial for timely access to healthcare, and any delays or cancellations can have serious consequences.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers, are available for individuals with specific medical needs. These services are often coordinated through insurance companies or healthcare providers. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may not be readily accessible for all residents.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Several medical transport brands serve the Salem area, including **Atlantic Ambulance Corp** and **Mobile Medical Transportation**. These services provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare needs. The efficiency and reliability of these services are critical for patients who cannot drive or use public transportation. The overall health score will reflect the availability and affordability of these crucial services.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for access to healthcare in ZIP code 08079 is moderately impacted by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability all contribute to this score.

The drive times to major healthcare facilities, particularly those outside of Salem County, can be significant, impacting the ability of residents to access timely medical care. The lack of direct public transportation routes to hospitals and specialist practices adds to the complexity of healthcare access.

The availability of medical transport services and ride-sharing options provides some mitigation, but the cost and reliability of these services can be barriers for some residents.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the overall health score requires a multi-faceted approach. Strengthening public transportation infrastructure is crucial. This could involve increasing the frequency of bus routes, expanding service to include direct routes to major medical centers, and improving the accessibility of bus stops.

Promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with local healthcare providers to subsidize transportation costs for patients could also improve access. Encouraging the development of telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments.

Investing in community health initiatives that address transportation barriers and promote healthy behaviors can also improve the overall health of residents. The overall health score can be improved through these efforts.

**Conclusion: Moving to Salem and Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Salem, NJ, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is vital. While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the limitations in transportation can present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their ability to access medical care. Evaluating the availability of transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, is essential. Planning for potential travel times to healthcare facilities and understanding the associated costs is crucial. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can access the medical care they require. The overall health score reflects the importance of transportation in ensuring the well-being of Salem residents.