07737, Leonardo, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07737, Leonardo, New Jersey is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.64 percent of residents in 07737 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 4.07 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Leonardo, NJ (ZIP Code 07737)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex equation. It's not just about medical expertise; it's about the ease of getting there. This assessment, a "Breast Cancer Score," analyzes transportation accessibility for residents of Leonardo, New Jersey (ZIP code 07737), focusing on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to essential medical facilities. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Leonardo, as proximity to quality care can be a significant factor.

Leonardo, nestled in Monmouth County, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the Jersey Shore. However, its location impacts healthcare access, necessitating a deep dive into transportation options. This analysis considers the critical need for timely access to diagnostic imaging, surgical centers, oncology practices, and support services. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape for those facing or at risk of breast cancer.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. From Leonardo, the primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating a network of highways and local roads. Driving times fluctuate based on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions.

The Garden State Parkway (GSP) is a crucial artery. Heading north, the GSP provides access to hospitals in Red Bank and Long Branch, both within a reasonable drive. Southbound, the GSP leads to facilities in Toms River and beyond. However, rush hour can transform this into a parking lot, significantly increasing travel times.

Route 36, a major thoroughfare, offers direct access to hospitals and medical centers in the immediate vicinity. However, it is often congested, particularly during peak hours. Local roads like Cooper Avenue and Navesink Avenue are essential for navigating within Leonardo and connecting to the larger road network. These roads can be narrow and winding, adding to travel time.

For those heading to specialized cancer centers, like the highly-regarded facilities in New York City, the drive becomes more complex. This involves navigating the GSP, the New Jersey Turnpike, and potentially the Outerbridge Crossing or the Goethals Bridge, depending on the destination. Such trips can easily consume over an hour, even without significant traffic delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its limitations in this area are significant. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service, but the routes serving Leonardo are limited in frequency and coverage. The 817 bus, for example, connects Leonardo to Red Bank and other towns along Route 36. However, the schedule may not align with medical appointments, and the service frequency is not ideal for frequent trips.

The NJ Transit train system, while offering more extensive coverage, is not directly accessible from Leonardo. Residents would need to drive to a nearby station, such as Middletown or Little Silver, to catch a train. This adds an extra layer of complexity and travel time.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible buses and trains, but the availability of accessible routes and stations may vary. For individuals with mobility challenges, confirming the accessibility of specific routes and stations is essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, alternative to driving or public transit. Their availability in Leonardo is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare operate in the area, offering scheduled rides to medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or have difficulty using public transit.

However, these services are often subject to availability and scheduling constraints. Booking in advance is crucial, and waiting times can be significant. The cost of medical transportation can also be a barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Leonardo (07737) reflects a nuanced picture. While the area offers proximity to healthcare facilities, transportation challenges exist. Driving times are manageable, but traffic congestion can be a factor. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services can be costly. Medical transportation offers a valuable option, but availability and cost are considerations.

For those considering moving to Leonardo, this score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation needs. Factors like the frequency of medical appointments, mobility limitations, and financial resources should be considered.

**Conclusion: Planning for Healthcare Access**

Living in Leonardo offers a lifestyle with access to healthcare, but planning is essential. Researching the location of medical facilities, understanding commute times, and exploring all transportation options is crucial. For those facing or at risk of breast cancer, proactive planning ensures timely access to vital medical care. This analysis provides a starting point for making informed decisions about healthcare access and the potential benefits of moving to Leonardo. The ultimate goal is to facilitate a seamless journey to care, allowing individuals to focus on their health and well-being.