08349, Port Norris, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08349, Port Norris, New Jersey is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.00 percent of residents in 08349 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Inspira Medical Center Vineland with a distance of 13.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08349 (Port Norris, NJ)

The overall health score for residents of Port Norris, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08349), concerning their access to healthcare, is significantly influenced by the complexities of transportation. This rural community, nestled along the Maurice River, faces challenges in healthcare access due to its geographical isolation and reliance on personal vehicles for most errands. Assessing this score requires a deep dive into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a picture of accessibility that directly impacts the well-being of those **moving to Port Norris**.

The primary arteries connecting Port Norris to healthcare facilities are Route 47 and Route 553. Driving times to the nearest hospitals and urgent care centers are critical factors in the health score. The closest hospital, Inspira Medical Center Vineland, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive via Route 47. This drive can be longer during peak traffic hours or inclement weather, creating potential delays in seeking timely medical attention. Another option is Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May Court House, which is about an hour’s drive via Route 47 and Route 9.

Urgent care facilities are located in Bridgeton and Millville, both roughly a 20- to 30-minute drive from Port Norris, again primarily via Route 47. While these options provide immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions, the distance still represents a barrier to quick healthcare access. The condition of the roads, especially during winter, further complicates travel, potentially impacting the health score negatively.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The primary public transit provider in the region is the New Jersey Transit (NJT), but its services are not readily available in Port Norris. Bus Route 551, which runs from Atlantic City to Philadelphia, passes through nearby towns, but it does not directly serve Port Norris. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, limiting their ability to access healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the absence of ADA-accessible features on existing routes, such as elevators or ramps, further restricts access for individuals with disabilities, compounding the challenges of **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability in Port Norris are variable. Ride-sharing services can be a viable option for those without vehicles or who cannot drive, but they often come with higher costs, especially during off-peak hours or when demand is high. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as wait times can be long in rural areas, potentially delaying medical appointments or emergency care. The availability of ride-sharing services adds to the overall health score, but the impact is tempered by the factors of cost and reliability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services cater to individuals who require assistance due to mobility limitations or other medical needs. While these services can improve **transportation** options, their availability and cost can still be a barrier for some residents.

The overall health score for Port Norris is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. While there may be some local primary care physicians and specialists, the range of services offered is likely limited compared to larger urban centers. Residents may need to travel to Vineland, Bridgeton, or other nearby towns to access specialized care, further increasing the importance of reliable transportation.

The health score is also impacted by the demographics of the community. Port Norris has a significant elderly population, who may have mobility issues or rely on others for transportation. This demographic characteristic underscores the importance of accessible and affordable transportation options.

For individuals **moving to Port Norris**, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options mean that owning a car is almost essential for accessing healthcare. This factor should be weighed against the affordability of car ownership, including insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs.

The health score is also affected by the presence of community resources. Programs that provide transportation assistance to seniors or low-income individuals can improve healthcare access. The availability of such programs can mitigate the negative impact of limited public transit and ride-sharing options.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Port Norris, NJ (08349) concerning access to healthcare is moderate. The primary challenges are the reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of readily available public transportation, and the variable availability and affordability of ride-sharing services. The drive times to healthcare facilities, primarily via Route 47 and Route 553, are a significant factor, and the limited availability of specialized medical transportation services can also be a barrier. However, the presence of local healthcare providers, community resources, and the availability of ride-sharing services do contribute to a more positive outlook. The health score for Port Norris can be improved by investing in public transit, supporting community transportation programs, and increasing the availability of affordable ride-sharing options. This will ensure that all residents, especially those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles, have equal access to the healthcare they need.