08085, Swedesboro, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08085, Swedesboro, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.52 percent of residents in 08085 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Medical Center with a distance of 10.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Swedesboro (ZIP Code 08085)

The quaint borough of Swedesboro, New Jersey, with its charming Main Street and burgeoning community, often beckons those seeking a quieter life. However, before packing your bags and embracing the small-town charm, prospective residents should carefully consider the accessibility of healthcare services. This "Overall Health Score" analyzes the commute to healthcare within and around ZIP Code 08085, evaluating transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical facilities. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating **moving to Swedesboro**, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical care.

The foundation of healthcare access in Swedesboro rests upon its location in Gloucester County. The town's relative proximity to larger population centers like Philadelphia and Wilmington, Delaware, provides a wider array of specialized medical services. However, this advantage is tempered by the complexities of **transportation** within the region.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Swedesboro. The town is strategically positioned near several major roadways, yet traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. The primary arteries for healthcare access are Interstate 295 (I-295), the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), and Route 322.

For routine appointments, the closest primary care physicians and urgent care facilities are generally located within a 15- to 20-minute drive. These facilities are often clustered along Route 322 or in neighboring towns like Woolwich Township and Mullica Hill. However, during peak hours, particularly on weekday mornings and evenings, traffic on Route 322 and the ramps to I-295 can extend commute times considerably.

Specialized medical care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals located further afield. Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive via I-295, offers a comprehensive range of services. For more specialized treatments, the University of Pennsylvania Health System in Philadelphia, a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic, provides access to world-renowned specialists.

The New Jersey Turnpike, while offering a faster route to Philadelphia, can be heavily congested, especially near the Delaware Memorial Bridge. This adds another layer of uncertainty to travel times. Therefore, residents should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments, especially those requiring timely arrival.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Swedesboro are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The primary public transit provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) system. Bus Route 402 serves the area, connecting Swedesboro to nearby towns and regional transportation hubs. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

The nearest train station is in nearby Woodbury, offering access to the Atlantic City Rail Line. However, this option is less practical for reaching healthcare facilities, as it requires a transfer to another mode of transportation.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on NJT buses is generally good, with features like ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those with mobility issues or requiring frequent medical appointments. This can be a significant consideration for individuals considering **healthcare access** as a priority.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Swedesboro, offering an alternative to driving. However, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours. Surge pricing, a common practice during periods of high demand, can significantly increase the cost of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like Senior Care Transportation and Liberty Medical Transportation offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

Several healthcare facilities are accessible from Swedesboro. Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, as mentioned, is a major regional hospital. Several urgent care centers and primary care physician offices are located within a short driving distance.

The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is more limited within Swedesboro itself. Residents often need to travel to larger medical centers in Woodbury, Philadelphia, or Wilmington to access these services.

The accessibility of these facilities varies. While most facilities are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, it is always advisable to confirm specific accessibility features, such as wheelchair access, before scheduling an appointment.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Swedesboro is moderate. While the town offers access to essential healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges.

**Strengths:**

* Proximity to major roadways (I-295, Route 322) provides access to a range of healthcare facilities.
* Availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.
* Access to larger hospitals and specialized care in nearby towns and cities.

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public transit options, particularly for those without access to a car.
* Traffic congestion on major roadways can significantly increase travel times, impacting **healthcare access**.
* Dependence on driving, which can be challenging for seniors or individuals with mobility issues.
* Limited availability of specialized medical services within Swedesboro itself.

**Recommendations:**

* Individuals considering **moving to Swedesboro** should carefully assess their transportation needs and ability to drive.
* Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* Factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling medical appointments.
* Advocate for improved public transit service to enhance **transportation** options for all residents.

This "Overall Health Score" provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Swedesboro, equipping prospective residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The information underscores the importance of considering transportation options and potential travel times when evaluating the town's suitability as a place to live.