08225, Northfield, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08225, Northfield, New Jersey is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.14 percent of residents in 08225 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shore Medical Center with a distance of 4.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08225 (Northfield, NJ)

Considering a move to Northfield, New Jersey (ZIP code 08225)? Assessing the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount for your overall well-being. This report analyzes the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on commute times, transportation options, and their accessibility. This score aims to help you make an informed decision about your potential move.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite metric reflecting the ease of reaching healthcare facilities from various points within 08225. Factors considered include travel time, mode of transportation, and the availability of accessible options. The score is rated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the easiest and most accessible healthcare access.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

Northfield, a charming community, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary roads facilitating healthcare access are the Garden State Parkway and Route 9. These thoroughfares offer direct routes to hospitals and medical centers, yet traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

For residents in 08225, the drive to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center (ARMC) Mainland Campus in Pomona, a major healthcare provider, is a common journey. This trip typically involves using the Garden State Parkway or Route 9. The average drive time, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 10 to 15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this can easily extend to 20-30 minutes.

Other essential healthcare facilities, such as Shore Medical Center in Somers Point, are accessible via Route 9. The drive time to Shore Medical Center is usually around 15 to 20 minutes, contingent on traffic. Smaller medical practices and specialist offices are scattered throughout the region, often requiring shorter drives, perhaps 5-10 minutes, using local roads like Mill Road or Zion Road.

The availability of parking at these healthcare facilities is generally good, but it can be limited during peak hours. Consider the time of day when scheduling appointments to minimize parking challenges.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in 08225 are limited, which impacts the "Overall Health Score." The primary public transit provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit). The bus routes servicing the area, such as the 502 and 509, connect Northfield to neighboring towns, including Atlantic City and Pleasantville.

These bus routes, however, may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Passengers might need to transfer or walk a considerable distance to reach their appointments. This can be particularly challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on NJ Transit buses is a crucial factor. All NJ Transit buses are equipped with features like ramps or lifts, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements. Despite these features, navigating public transit with a disability can still pose challenges, especially with limited route frequency and potential for longer travel times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in 08225. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for accessing healthcare facilities, providing door-to-door service.

However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, especially during peak demand, which can impact affordability for frequent healthcare visits.

Medical transportation services are also available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services typically provide transportation for patients with mobility issues or those needing medical equipment. Companies like SeniorCare Transportation and Atlantic Medical Transportation are among those serving the region.

These services often require advance booking and may involve higher costs compared to standard ride-sharing. However, they provide a valuable service for those who need it.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 08225 is a **6 out of 10**. This score reflects the convenience of driving to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The score is affected by the dependence on personal vehicles, potential traffic delays, and the limited scope of public transportation. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services boosts the score, providing alternative access methods.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Consider your mobility and healthcare needs. If you rely on public transit, the limited options in 08225 may be a drawback.
* **Factor in commute times:** Account for potential traffic congestion when planning healthcare appointments.
* **Explore ride-sharing and medical transportation options:** Familiarize yourself with the availability and cost of these services.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare facilities:** If possible, choose a residence closer to essential healthcare providers.
* **Investigate healthcare provider networks:** Ensure your preferred healthcare providers are within easy reach.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Northfield, NJ, presents a generally accessible landscape for healthcare access. While driving is the most convenient option, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides crucial alternatives. The limited public transit options, however, impact the overall score. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this report, prospective residents can make an informed decision and ensure their healthcare needs are met. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for a smooth transition and a healthy life in Northfield.