08260, Wildwood, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08260, Wildwood, New Jersey is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.81 percent of residents in 08260 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Regional Medical Center Inc with a distance of 6.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wildwood, NJ (ZIP Code 08260)

Wildwood, New Jersey, a vibrant coastal community, offers a unique blend of recreation and residential life. However, assessing its overall health requires examining a critical factor: the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access**. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 08260, provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport availability. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Wildwood**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" for 08260 is currently considered **moderate**. While the area benefits from a generally accessible healthcare infrastructure, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges, particularly for those without cars or with mobility limitations.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare facilities in and around Wildwood is the personal vehicle. Residents in 08260 primarily rely on the Garden State Parkway (GSP) and Route 47 for navigating to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. The GSP, a major north-south artery, facilitates travel to facilities located further north in Cape May County and beyond. Route 47, running parallel to the coast, provides access to local healthcare providers.

Drive times to key healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May Court House, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via the GSP or Route 47. Shore Medical Center in Somers Point, another significant healthcare provider, requires a 45-60 minute drive, primarily utilizing the GSP. Local clinics and urgent care facilities within Wildwood and neighboring communities like Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood are generally accessible within a 10-20 minute drive. However, during peak tourist seasons, traffic congestion can significantly increase these travel times, potentially impacting **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit options in Wildwood are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Cape May County Bridge Commission operates a bus service, the "Cape May County Transit," which provides some connectivity within the county. However, the routes and schedules are often infrequent, and the service's coverage of healthcare facilities is limited.

The primary bus routes serving the Wildwood area are Route 509 and Route 601. Route 509 connects Wildwood with Cape May Court House, providing access to Cape Regional Medical Center, but the frequency is limited, especially on weekends. Route 601 offers service within Wildwood and to neighboring communities, but it does not directly serve major healthcare facilities outside of the immediate area.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. Cape May County Transit strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the availability of accessible routes and the potential for extended travel times can pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The limited public transit options underscore the importance of considering alternative **transportation** methods for those relying on public transit for **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option for accessing healthcare. Availability in Wildwood is generally good, particularly during peak seasons. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent appointments or long-distance travel to specialists.

Medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Wildwood area, including:

* **Care Ride:** Provides non-emergency medical **transportation** with wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Medical Transport:** Offers stretcher and wheelchair **transportation** services.
* **Liberty Medical Transport:** Specializes in non-emergency medical **transportation** and provides door-to-door service.

These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations, those who cannot drive, or those who require assistance with medical equipment. However, the availability of these services can vary, and booking in advance is often necessary. Costs can vary depending on the distance, type of service, and insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

Beyond **transportation**, other factors influence **healthcare access** in Wildwood. The availability of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, is a crucial consideration. While Wildwood has a good selection of local clinics and urgent care centers, access to specialized care may require travel to facilities further afield.

Insurance coverage also plays a significant role. Individuals with limited or no insurance coverage may face financial barriers to accessing healthcare services, even if **transportation** is readily available. The availability of affordable healthcare options and the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers are essential for ensuring equitable **healthcare access**.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for 08260 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a generally accessible healthcare infrastructure, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provide alternative options, but their costs and availability can be limiting factors.

The **moving to Wildwood** decision should include a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs and **healthcare access** requirements. Individuals without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. Careful consideration of public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical **transportation** services is crucial. Prospective residents should also research the availability of healthcare providers, insurance coverage options, and the overall cost of care in the area.

**Recommendations**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for 08260, several initiatives could be implemented:

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities. Improve accessibility features and provide better information for riders.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Partner with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized **transportation** options for low-income residents or those with medical needs.
* **Expand Medical Transportation Services:** Encourage the growth of medical **transportation** providers and ensure their services are affordable and accessible.
* **Improve Healthcare Infrastructure:** Support the expansion of healthcare facilities and the recruitment of healthcare providers to the area.
* **Increase Healthcare Affordability:** Advocate for policies that promote affordable healthcare options and ensure access to insurance coverage for all residents.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Wildwood can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to quality healthcare services. The community's commitment to enhancing **transportation** options and promoting **healthcare access** will directly contribute to the overall health and well-being of its residents, making it an even more attractive destination for those **moving to Wildwood**.