08014, Bridgeport, New Jersey Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 08014, Bridgeport, New Jersey is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.97 percent of residents in 08014 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is West Jersey Hospital with a distance of 22.39 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08014

The specter of prostate cancer hangs heavy, a reality for countless men. Early detection and treatment are paramount, making timely healthcare access a critical factor in survival and quality of life. This analysis examines the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 08014 (Bridgeport, NJ), evaluating its impact on healthcare access, specifically concerning prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the challenges and opportunities in **transportation** is crucial for residents and prospective movers alike, particularly those considering **moving to Bridgeport**.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the Prostate Cancer Score, a hypothetical metric reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can access prostate cancer-related healthcare. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, all weighed against the location of key healthcare facilities.

Bridgeport, nestled in Gloucester County, presents a unique set of **transportation** challenges. While the area boasts a rural charm, its proximity to major urban centers like Philadelphia and Wilmington introduces complexities in healthcare **access**. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), the Commodore Barry Bridge (connecting to I-95 in Pennsylvania), and Route 322. These highways are vital for reaching specialized medical facilities, but their efficiency is subject to rush-hour congestion and potential delays.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and cancer centers are the initial indicators. Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, a primary care facility, is a relatively short drive, typically under 20 minutes via Route 322 and Route 45. This proximity offers a degree of convenience for routine check-ups and initial screenings. However, specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy and advanced surgical procedures, often necessitate travel to larger hospitals.

The drive to Cooper University Hospital in Camden, a leading cancer center, presents a longer commute. Depending on traffic conditions on the Commodore Barry Bridge and I-676, the journey can take between 30 to 60 minutes. Similarly, accessing the ChristianaCare Helen F. Graham Cancer Center in Newark, Delaware, requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, primarily utilizing I-95. These longer drive times can pose significant challenges for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating side effects.

Public transit options in Bridgeport are limited, impacting **healthcare access**. The primary provider is the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system. Route 402 offers service to nearby towns and connects to the River Line light rail, which links to Camden and Philadelphia. However, bus frequency is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends. This can significantly extend travel times and make it difficult for patients with mobility issues or those requiring urgent care to reach their appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with disabilities. While NJT strives to provide accessible services, the reliability of these features and the potential for delays due to maintenance or mechanical issues must be considered. The lack of direct public transit to major cancer centers further exacerbates the challenges, often requiring multiple transfers and increasing the overall travel time.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. However, their availability and affordability in Bridgeport are variable. While these services are generally accessible, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs, particularly for patients with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-sharing services, especially during inclement weather or late-night appointments, is another consideration.

Medical transport services provide specialized assistance for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transit. Companies like MedStar and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be invaluable for patients undergoing treatment or those with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially impacting appointment scheduling flexibility.

The Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 08014 is a complex calculation. While the proximity of primary care facilities offers a degree of convenience, the longer drive times to specialized cancer centers, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. This score reflects the potential challenges residents face in accessing timely and efficient prostate cancer-related healthcare.

For individuals considering **moving to Bridgeport**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Proximity to primary care facilities is a positive factor, but the accessibility of specialized oncology services and the reliability of **transportation** options must be carefully evaluated.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Bridgeport demands careful consideration. The challenges in **transportation** can significantly impact the patient experience, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced treatment adherence. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving public transit infrastructure, promoting ride-sharing programs, and expanding medical transport services.

Ultimately, the Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 08014 highlights the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. By understanding the existing challenges and exploring potential solutions, residents and policymakers can work together to improve the quality of life and ensure that all men have the opportunity to receive timely and effective prostate cancer care. This is a vital consideration for anyone **moving to Bridgeport**.