08865, Phillipsburg, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08865, Phillipsburg, New Jersey is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.14 percent of residents in 08865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Warren Hospital with a distance of 1.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Phillipsburg, NJ (ZIP Code 08865)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Phillipsburg, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08865), focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access. A key determinant of this access is the efficiency and availability of transportation options. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably directly impacts health outcomes, making the commute to healthcare a critical factor for residents considering moving to Phillipsburg or already residing within its borders.

Phillipsburg, nestled along the Delaware River, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its location, while offering scenic beauty, also necessitates navigating a network of roads and utilizing alternative modes of transit to reach essential healthcare services. The overall health score reflects the interplay of these factors, weighing the convenience, cost, and accessibility of various transportation methods. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and out of Phillipsburg are Interstate 78 (I-78) and Route 22. I-78 provides a direct east-west connection, while Route 22 offers a more local, albeit often congested, alternative. Traveling to healthcare facilities within Phillipsburg itself is generally straightforward, with most destinations accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. However, accessing specialized care or hospitals located outside the immediate vicinity requires navigating these major roadways.

For residents seeking care at St. Luke's Warren Hospital in Phillipsburg, the drive is typically short and manageable, often taking less than 10 minutes from most residential areas. However, accessing larger hospitals like St. Luke's University Hospital in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, requires a longer commute, typically around 30-45 minutes via I-78, depending on traffic. This distance can be a significant barrier for those with acute medical needs or limited mobility.

Public transportation options in Phillipsburg, while present, are limited. Trans-Bridge Lines offers bus service, primarily connecting Phillipsburg to New York City and other regional destinations. However, these routes are not specifically designed for healthcare access, and the frequency and routing may not be ideal for medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on these buses should be investigated to ensure accessibility for all residents.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Phillipsburg, offering a convenient, albeit potentially costly, option for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing are crucial considerations when evaluating healthcare access.

Medical transport services also play a vital role, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) operate in the area, providing door-to-door service for medical appointments. These services are particularly important for seniors and individuals with disabilities, enabling them to access healthcare without relying on family or friends. Researching the specific NEMT providers serving Phillipsburg and evaluating their service areas, costs, and accessibility features is essential.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Phillipsburg is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the immediate access to local healthcare facilities is relatively good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present challenges. The commute times to larger hospitals and specialized care facilities, especially during peak traffic, can significantly impact healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides critical alternatives, but their cost and reliability must be considered. The degree to which these services are accessible to all residents, including those with disabilities and those with limited financial resources, is a key factor in determining the overall health score.

Furthermore, the location of healthcare facilities relative to residential areas is crucial. Residents in areas with limited access to public transportation or ride-sharing services may face greater challenges in reaching medical appointments. The availability of sidewalks, crosswalks, and other pedestrian-friendly infrastructure also impacts healthcare access, particularly for those who may need to walk or use assistive devices.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Phillipsburg should be viewed as a dynamic measure, influenced by factors such as traffic patterns, service availability, and the evolving needs of the community. The ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly and reliably is a fundamental right, and the transportation infrastructure must be designed to support this right.

For individuals considering moving to Phillipsburg, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is crucial. Researching the location of healthcare facilities, evaluating commute times, and exploring the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services is essential. Understanding the potential challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in Phillipsburg will allow individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being.

The health score for Phillipsburg, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While local healthcare access is generally good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides crucial alternatives, but their cost and reliability must be carefully considered. The overall health score is influenced by the interplay of these factors, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.