08244, Somers Point, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08244, Somers Point, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.99 percent of residents in 08244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shore Medical Center with a distance of 0.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08244 (Somers Point, NJ)

The health of a community is intricately woven with the ease and efficiency with which its residents can access healthcare. In Somers Point, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08244), this access hinges significantly on the available **transportation** options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the diverse methods residents utilize to reach medical facilities, from driving to public transit and ride-sharing services. We will evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. This is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Somers Point**, as understanding healthcare accessibility is crucial for overall well-being.

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in Somers Point is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's strategic location, nestled between the Garden State Parkway and the Atlantic City Expressway, offers relatively straightforward access to a variety of medical facilities. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides a direct route to hospitals and specialist offices in Atlantic City and other surrounding towns. The Atlantic City Expressway, while toll-operated, offers a faster alternative for those traveling east towards Atlantic City or west towards Philadelphia.

However, reliance on personal vehicles presents certain limitations. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and summer months, can significantly extend travel times, impacting the timeliness of appointments and potentially exacerbating medical conditions. Weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, can further complicate driving conditions, leading to delays and safety concerns. Parking availability, especially near popular medical centers, can also pose a challenge, adding to the stress of a healthcare visit.

The drive-time to healthcare facilities varies depending on the destination and the time of day. For example, a trip to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, Mainland Campus, in Pomona, via the Garden State Parkway, might take approximately 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily extend to 45 minutes or more. The same trip via the Atlantic City Expressway might be slightly quicker, but the toll costs must be factored in. Smaller clinics and physician offices within Somers Point itself are, of course, more readily accessible, with drive times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes.

Public transit offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. The New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service in the area. Several routes, including the 502 and 509, serve Somers Point and connect to larger hubs like Atlantic City. These buses offer a relatively affordable option for reaching medical appointments, especially for individuals on a fixed income or those who find driving challenging.

However, public transit in the area presents certain drawbacks. The frequency of bus service can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends, potentially requiring patients to wait a considerable amount of time for a bus. The routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, necessitating transfers and increasing travel time. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. NJ Transit is mandated to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with features such as ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of these features and the overall accessibility of bus stops can vary, potentially creating challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. These services provide on-demand access to a vehicle, eliminating the need for personal vehicle ownership or reliance on public transit schedules. Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who prefer not to drive.

However, ride-sharing services are not without their limitations. The availability of drivers can vary, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can be significantly higher than public transit, especially for longer trips. Furthermore, individuals who require specialized medical **transportation**, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, may face limited availability and higher costs.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a vital link to healthcare for those who cannot travel independently. These services, often provided by companies such as MedTrans and American Medical Response, offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility impairments, those who require assistance with medical equipment, or those who are unable to drive themselves.

However, medical **transportation** services can be expensive, and the availability of these services may be limited. The need for advance booking and potential wait times can also pose challenges, especially for urgent medical needs. Insurance coverage for medical **transportation** varies, and patients may be responsible for a portion of the cost.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Somers Point, considering these factors, is moderately positive. The town's proximity to major roadways provides relatively easy access to a range of medical facilities via personal vehicles. Public transit offers a viable alternative for some residents, although limitations in frequency, route coverage, and accessibility must be considered. Ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provide additional options, but their cost and availability can be barriers.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Somers Point is dynamic. The development of new medical facilities, improvements in public transit, and the expansion of ride-sharing services could further enhance the "Overall Health Score." Conversely, factors such as traffic congestion, rising healthcare costs, and limited **transportation** options could negatively impact access.

For individuals **moving to Somers Point**, it is essential to carefully consider their individual **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements. Researching the availability of medical facilities, assessing the feasibility of various **transportation** options, and understanding insurance coverage for medical services are crucial steps in ensuring adequate **healthcare access**. The town's location offers a blend of advantages and disadvantages, and a proactive approach to planning for healthcare needs is essential for maintaining overall well-being.