07721, Cliffwood, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07721, Cliffwood, New Jersey is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.63 percent of residents in 07721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 3.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cliffwood, NJ (ZIP Code 07721)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex equation. Beyond the medical expertise and emotional fortitude required, the logistics of accessing care – the **transportation** puzzle – can significantly impact a patient's experience. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for Cliffwood, NJ (ZIP code 07721), explores the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare, considering the available **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**. This is especially pertinent for those **moving to Cliffwood**, seeking to understand the practicalities of their medical journey.

Cliffwood, a charming community nestled in Monmouth County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to **healthcare access**. Its relative proximity to major roadways, coupled with a limited public **transportation** infrastructure, shapes the landscape of patient **transportation**. The Breast Cancer Score aims to illuminate this landscape, providing a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to residents facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The primary determinant of the Breast Cancer Score is the estimated travel time to key medical facilities offering breast cancer services. These include diagnostic imaging centers (mammography, ultrasound), surgical oncology practices, radiation oncology centers, and medical oncology clinics. The calculations are based on average traffic conditions during typical weekday hours, assuming a patient's need for routine appointments, follow-up care, and potential treatments.

Driving is the dominant mode of **transportation** in Cliffwood. The primary arteries for reaching healthcare facilities are the Garden State Parkway (GSP) and Route 35. Access to the GSP is relatively convenient, with exits at nearby towns like Hazlet and Aberdeen. Route 35, a major commercial thoroughfare, offers direct access to various medical offices and hospitals, but can be subject to significant congestion, particularly during peak hours.

For a patient residing in Cliffwood, a drive to a diagnostic imaging center in nearby Hazlet might take approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 35 or the GSP. A visit to a surgical oncology practice in Red Bank, a regional hub for specialized care, could involve a 25-40 minute drive, depending on traffic. Radiation oncology centers, often located within larger hospital systems, may necessitate a 30-45 minute drive, depending on the chosen facility. These times can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during rush hour, potentially adding stress and anxiety to an already challenging situation.

Public **transportation** options in Cliffwood are limited. New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes in the area, but these routes primarily serve local destinations and lack direct connections to major medical centers. The primary bus route serving Cliffwood is the 67, which runs along Route 35. This route offers some connections to other bus lines and train stations, but the frequency of service can be infrequent, and the travel times can be extended due to multiple stops. The 67 bus does not offer direct access to major hospitals or cancer centers.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. NJT strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public **transportation** system can vary. Patients with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment may find the public **transportation** system challenging to navigate.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Cliffwood. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive themselves or who need to avoid the stress of navigating traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially causing delays.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including door-to-door service, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and trained drivers. These services can be particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to use other forms of **transportation**. However, these services often require advance booking and may involve higher costs compared to other options.

The Breast Cancer Score for Cliffwood, considering these factors, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major roadways offers reasonable driving times to certain facilities, the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services present challenges. The score is further influenced by the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, which can significantly impact travel times and add to the stress of medical appointments.

For individuals **moving to Cliffwood** and seeking to understand their **healthcare access**, it is crucial to consider these factors. A proactive approach is essential. Researching the location of healthcare providers, assessing the available **transportation** options, and planning for potential delays are key steps.

Patients should also explore the availability of support services within the community. Cancer support groups, patient navigators, and social workers can provide invaluable assistance in coordinating care, navigating the **transportation** challenges, and accessing resources. These support systems can help alleviate the burden of **transportation** and improve the overall patient experience.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static metric. It evolves with changes in **transportation** infrastructure, the availability of medical services, and the emergence of new technologies. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of Cliffwood have access to the best possible care and support.

In conclusion, while Cliffwood offers reasonable driving access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential costs associated with alternative **transportation** options present challenges for breast cancer patients. Careful planning, proactive research, and the utilization of available support services are crucial for navigating the **transportation** landscape and ensuring optimal **healthcare access**. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that the journey to healthcare is not just about medical expertise; it is also about the practicalities of getting there.