08217, Elwood, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08217, Elwood, New Jersey is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 08217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shore Medical Center with a distance of 19.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Elwood, NJ (ZIP Code 08217)

Elwood, New Jersey, a charming locale nestled within the vast expanse of Atlantic County, presents a unique set of circumstances when considering its residents' overall health and their access to healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 08217, delves into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare facilities, evaluating the available transportation options and their impact on the well-being of the community. This is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating **moving to Elwood**, as the ease and efficiency of reaching medical care are paramount considerations.

The **transportation** landscape in Elwood is primarily dominated by personal vehicles. The vast majority of residents rely on cars for their daily commutes, including trips to doctors' appointments, hospitals, and pharmacies. This reliance, while offering flexibility, also presents potential challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. The primary thoroughfares serving Elwood are the Atlantic City Expressway, the Garden State Parkway, and various local roads, including Route 561 and Route 536.

Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the time of day. Reaching Atlanticare Regional Medical Center, the closest major hospital, located in Atlantic City, typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes via the Atlantic City Expressway. The journey can be significantly longer during peak traffic hours, particularly during the summer months when tourism swells the population. Accessing specialist care, often located in larger cities like Philadelphia, can involve a drive of an hour or more, adding to the burden on patients.

Public **transportation** options in Elwood are limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents. The primary public **transportation** provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 502 and 552, but their frequency and coverage are restricted, especially in the evenings and on weekends. These routes generally connect Elwood to larger towns like Hammonton and Atlantic City, where additional healthcare facilities are located.

The accessibility of public **transportation** for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. NJT strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of using public **transportation** can still be a concern, especially for those with mobility limitations. The lack of sidewalks and the distance between bus stops and residential areas can further exacerbate these challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option for residents of Elwood. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly in less densely populated areas. While ride-sharing provides a convenient way to access healthcare, the expense can be prohibitive for some, especially those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services can also be a concern, as wait times and driver availability may vary.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in the region. These services cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. Companies like Atlantic Ambulance and other private medical **transportation** providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services, often covered by Medicaid or other insurance plans. However, the availability and coverage of these services can vary, and booking appointments in advance is often necessary.

The distance to pharmacies and other essential healthcare services within Elwood itself is generally manageable. Several pharmacies are located within a reasonable distance, making it easier for residents to pick up prescriptions and other medical supplies. However, access to specialized medical services, such as diagnostic imaging or specialist consultations, often requires travel to facilities outside of Elwood.

The overall **health score** for **healthcare access** in Elwood, NJ (08217) is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, can be a challenge for those without access to a car. The limited public **transportation** options, coupled with the potential for long travel times to reach specialized healthcare facilities, presents a significant hurdle for some residents. While ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers offer alternative solutions, their availability and cost can be limitations.

The convenience of accessing pharmacies and other essential healthcare services within Elwood itself contributes positively to the overall score. However, the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care can negatively impact the ease and efficiency of **healthcare access**. The accessibility of public **transportation** for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor, with NJT's efforts to provide accessible services representing a positive step.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges on the overall health of the community is significant. Limited **healthcare access** can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced adherence to treatment plans, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improvements to public **transportation**, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and enhanced support for medical **transportation** providers.

For individuals considering **moving to Elwood**, understanding these **transportation** and **healthcare access** considerations is crucial. Evaluating the availability of personal vehicles, the feasibility of using public **transportation**, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services is essential. Furthermore, assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities and the ease of accessing specialist care should be a key part of the decision-making process.

In conclusion, while Elwood offers a desirable quality of life in many respects, the challenges associated with **transportation** and **healthcare access** are significant. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public **transportation**, the promotion of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of medical **transportation** options is essential to improve the overall health and well-being of the community. This is particularly important for those contemplating **moving to Elwood**, as the ability to easily and affordably access healthcare is a fundamental component of a healthy and fulfilling life.