08518, Florence, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08518, Florence, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.44 percent of residents in 08518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Virtua Willingboro Hospital with a distance of 5.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08518 (Florence, NJ)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 08518, Florence, New Jersey, focusing on the crucial element of transportation to healthcare facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Florence or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The location of Florence, nestled within Burlington County, presents a unique transportation landscape. Proximity to major highways and the Delaware River offers both opportunities and challenges. The Overall Health Score will evaluate these variables to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities are, therefore, a critical component of the Overall Health Score. The primary thoroughfare serving Florence is Route 130, a busy highway that connects the area to surrounding towns and cities. Access to healthcare facilities in nearby towns is largely determined by the efficiency of Route 130.

Traveling south on Route 130, residents can reach Virtua Willingboro Hospital in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This facility offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and outpatient clinics. Further south, the drive to Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County in Willingboro takes about 20-25 minutes, offering another valuable option.

Northbound on Route 130, access to healthcare facilities in Trenton, the state capital, becomes a factor. Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton, a major regional hospital, is typically a 30-40 minute drive. This longer commute time necessitates consideration of traffic patterns, especially during peak hours.

The New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) provides a faster, albeit toll-based, alternative for accessing healthcare facilities. While not directly accessible from Florence, residents can utilize the Turnpike via interchanges in nearby towns. This option can significantly reduce travel times to hospitals in Philadelphia and other locations.

The availability of local roads, such as Florence-Columbus Road and Hornberger Avenue, offers alternative routes, though they are generally slower and more susceptible to traffic congestion. The Overall Health Score will factor in the variability of drive times based on traffic conditions and the time of day.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation plays a vital role in healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles. The New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) system provides bus service in the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, the availability and frequency of bus routes are crucial considerations.

The primary NJ Transit route serving Florence is the 409 bus, which connects the area to Trenton and other points. This route provides access to healthcare facilities in Trenton, including Capital Health Regional Medical Center. However, the frequency of the 409 bus may be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings, potentially impacting healthcare access.

The 413 bus offers another option, connecting Florence to Burlington and Mount Holly. This route provides access to healthcare facilities in those towns, including Virtua Memorial Hospital of Burlington County in Mount Holly. The accessibility of these routes, including ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features like ramps and audio-visual announcements, is a key factor in the Overall Health Score.

The reliance on public transit necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel times. The Overall Health Score will evaluate the efficiency and reliability of NJ Transit services in relation to healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Assistance**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as a convenient transportation option. Their availability in Florence provides an on-demand alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive.

The Overall Health Score will consider the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services for accessing healthcare facilities. However, it's important to acknowledge that ride-sharing fares can fluctuate based on demand, potentially impacting healthcare affordability.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater specifically to individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services are critical for patients with medical conditions that restrict their ability to travel independently.

Several medical transport providers operate in the Florence area. The Overall Health Score will evaluate the availability, responsiveness, and cost of these services. Understanding the options for medical transport is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare for individuals with specific needs.

**Overall Health Score: Synthesis and Recommendations**

The Overall Health Score for residents of ZIP Code 08518 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are generally moderate, with access to a range of hospitals and clinics within a reasonable radius. The reliance on Route 130 and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning.

Public transit options, while available, are limited by the frequency and coverage of NJ Transit bus routes. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but their cost and availability should be considered. Medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with specific needs.

For those considering moving to Florence, a thorough understanding of these transportation dynamics is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on their preferred mode of transportation. Current residents should familiarize themselves with all available options and plan their healthcare journeys accordingly.

The Overall Health Score for Florence, NJ, reflects a community with moderate healthcare accessibility. While drive times are generally manageable, the limitations of public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing services require careful consideration. The availability of medical transport services provides an essential safety net for individuals with specific needs. Continuous improvements to public transportation infrastructure and the promotion of affordable ride-sharing options would significantly enhance the Overall Health Score and improve healthcare access for all residents.