08086, Thorofare, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08086, Thorofare, New Jersey is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.55 percent of residents in 08086 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital with a distance of 7.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08086 (Thorofare, NJ)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services significantly impacts quality of life. For residents of Thorofare, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08086), this write-up delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare, assessing the available transportation options and their implications for the community's overall health score. We'll consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those living and potentially **moving to Thorofare**.

The primary consideration for most residents is the automobile. Thorofare's location in Gloucester County offers relatively straightforward access to healthcare facilities via major roadways. The **New Jersey Turnpike (I-95)**, a vital artery for regional travel, provides rapid north-south connectivity. The **Atlantic City Expressway** offers a direct route to the coast and provides access to some healthcare facilities. The **I-295** is another major highway that allows for easy access to healthcare facilities in the Philadelphia metropolitan area.

Local roads such as **Route 45** and **Route 130** act as crucial connectors, feeding traffic into the larger highway network. These routes, while offering convenient access to local businesses and services, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times to medical appointments. The drive to major hospitals like Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, a short distance away, is generally manageable, typically taking under 15 minutes. However, travel times to facilities in Philadelphia can be significantly longer, potentially exceeding 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Public transportation, while present, presents a more nuanced picture. The **NJ Transit** system serves the region, but its reach within Thorofare is limited. Bus routes are available, though frequency and coverage may not be ideal for all residents, especially those with mobility limitations. The **400 bus route** and the **406 bus route** are the most relevant, providing service to nearby towns and connecting to regional transportation hubs. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access for individuals with disabilities.

The **accessibility of public transit** is a significant determinant of the overall health score. Limited bus routes, infrequent schedules, and the potential for lengthy travel times can pose significant challenges for those relying on public transit for medical appointments. This is especially true for individuals requiring specialized care or frequent visits. The lack of a dedicated rail line directly serving Thorofare further compounds these challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer an alternative transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility and convenience compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially those on fixed incomes or requiring frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services can also fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **MedStar Ambulance** offer specialized transportation for patients requiring ambulance or non-emergency medical transport. These services are essential for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their medical condition. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The **availability and affordability of medical transport** are critical factors in assessing healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or limited mobility often rely on these services to reach medical appointments. The quality and responsiveness of these services can directly impact their health outcomes. The ability to secure timely and reliable medical transport is therefore a significant contributor to the overall health score.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Thorofare, NJ (08086), reflects a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. The proximity to major highways provides relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, particularly for those with personal vehicles. However, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the reliance on medical transport for some residents create potential barriers to healthcare access.

The **impact of transportation challenges** on healthcare access extends beyond mere convenience. Delayed or missed appointments can lead to poorer health outcomes, increased healthcare costs, and a diminished quality of life. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is therefore a fundamental determinant of overall health and well-being.

For individuals considering **moving to Thorofare**, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the available transportation options to determine if the community meets their requirements. Factors such as proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered.

The **future of healthcare access** in Thorofare may be influenced by several factors. Investments in public transit infrastructure, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of innovative medical transport solutions could significantly improve healthcare access for residents. The integration of telehealth services may also play a role, allowing patients to receive some medical care remotely, reducing the need for physical travel.

The overall health score for Thorofare, NJ (08086), is a reflection of the community's ability to provide its residents with timely and convenient access to healthcare services. While the existing transportation infrastructure offers certain advantages, challenges remain. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments and innovative solutions will be essential to ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to achieve optimal health and well-being. The **transportation** infrastructure in Thorofare is a critical component of the healthcare ecosystem, impacting the health and well-being of its residents.