The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08312, Clayton, New Jersey is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
54.67 percent of residents in 08312 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Inspira Medical Center Elmer with a distance of 6.85 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 08312, Clayton, New Jersey
Overall Health Score | 44 |
---|---|
People Score | 18 |
Provider Score | 81 |
Hospital Score | 33 |
Travel Score | 52 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 08312 | Clayton | New Jersey |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.73 | 0.73 | 6.31 |
1 Car | 11.95 | 11.95 | 22.51 |
2 Cars | 50.44 | 50.44 | 39.65 |
3 or More Cars | 36.88 | 36.88 | 31.52 |
Vehicular Access in 08312, Clayton, New Jersey
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08312 (Clayton, NJ)
The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Clayton, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08312), focusing specifically on the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Clayton or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.
Clayton, a borough in Gloucester County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its location, while offering a degree of rural charm, also necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The overall health score for this aspect of life in Clayton will be determined by the availability, accessibility, and affordability of these essential transportation modalities.
**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**
For many residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments will be personal vehicles. The road network in and around Clayton plays a significant role in determining the ease of access. The primary arteries for navigating the area include **Route 40**, a major east-west thoroughfare that connects Clayton to surrounding towns and cities. The **Route 55** expressway, accessible via Route 40, provides a faster north-south route, although it can be prone to traffic congestion during peak hours.
Travel times by car will vary depending on the destination and time of day. For example, reaching Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, a major regional hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Route 40 and Route 45, with potential delays during rush hour. Smaller medical practices within Clayton or neighboring towns like Glassboro may be accessible within 10-15 minutes. Residents should factor in potential delays due to traffic, especially on Route 55, and plan accordingly.
**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**
Public transportation options in Clayton are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit)** system provides bus service in the area, but routes and frequency are less extensive than in more urbanized areas. **Route 403** is the primary bus route serving Clayton, connecting it to Glassboro and other nearby towns.
Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. NJ Transit is mandated to provide accessible services, including buses equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, riders should confirm the specific accessibility features of each route and plan their journeys accordingly. The limited frequency of bus service, particularly on weekends and evenings, can significantly impact healthcare access for those reliant on public transit.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer an alternative transportation option, especially for trips to medical appointments. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and time of day. Residents should be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand.
For individuals with specific medical needs, specialized medical transport services are available. These services, such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **MedStar Ambulance**, provide non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transit. The cost of these services can be substantial, so it's important to understand insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
**Healthcare Access: Assessing the Landscape**
The availability of healthcare facilities within and around Clayton is another critical factor in the overall health score. Clayton itself has a limited number of medical practices, including primary care physicians, dentists, and other specialists. Residents often need to travel to neighboring towns like Glassboro, Woodbury, or Vineland to access a broader range of healthcare services.
The distance to these facilities and the availability of transportation options directly impact the ease of healthcare access. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments may face greater challenges. The overall health score will reflect the combined impact of transportation limitations and the geographic distribution of healthcare providers.
**Moving to Clayton: A Balanced Perspective**
For those considering moving to Clayton, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. While the borough offers a relatively affordable cost of living and a close-knit community, the limitations in transportation options and the need to travel for certain healthcare services should be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their individual needs and circumstances, including their reliance on public transit, their ability to drive, and their access to ride-sharing services.
The availability of healthcare providers in the surrounding area is also a crucial factor. Researching the location of hospitals, specialists, and urgent care facilities and assessing the ease of travel to these locations is essential. For families with children, the availability of pediatricians and other child-specific healthcare services should be a priority.
**Conclusion: An Informed Health Score**
The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Clayton (08312) reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major roadways like Route 40 and Route 55 facilitates access by car, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport pose challenges. The availability of healthcare facilities within Clayton and the surrounding area is also a critical factor.
The score will be influenced by individual circumstances. Residents with personal vehicles and the ability to drive will likely experience fewer challenges than those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing. Individuals with specific medical needs or mobility limitations may face additional obstacles.
Ultimately, the overall health score for Clayton (08312) is a reflection of the interconnectedness of transportation, healthcare access, and community well-being. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, prospective movers, and local policymakers seeking to improve the health and quality of life in Clayton. Continuous efforts to enhance public transit options, promote ride-sharing accessibility, and ensure the availability of healthcare services within a reasonable distance will be vital for improving the overall health score and fostering a thriving community.
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