08701, Lakewood, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08701, Lakewood, New Jersey is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.48 percent of residents in 08701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 0.36 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lakewood, NJ (ZIP Code 08701)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex tapestry woven with threads of medical expertise, emotional resilience, and logistical hurdles. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 08701 (Lakewood, NJ), aims to illuminate the landscape of **healthcare access** for those facing this challenge, specifically considering **transportation** options. Understanding these pathways is crucial, whether you're a long-time resident or **moving to Lakewood**, as it directly impacts the speed and ease with which you can receive vital care.

Lakewood, a vibrant community, presents a unique set of circumstances. While blessed with a central location and a growing population, its healthcare infrastructure, like any region, demands careful scrutiny, especially concerning specialized services like those for breast cancer. This write-up will delve into the available options, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" framework to help navigate the complexities of accessing care.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in Lakewood and surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this option hinges on traffic patterns, which can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and the day of the week. Major arteries like the Garden State Parkway and Route 9 are crucial conduits, but they can also become congested.

For those seeking breast cancer care, the most significant destinations are likely to be medical centers in Toms River, Freehold, or even further afield in Monmouth County or Philadelphia. Driving to Toms River, home to Community Medical Center, via Route 9 or the Garden State Parkway, generally takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Freehold, housing CentraState Medical Center, is reachable via Route 9 and County Road 524, typically requiring a 30 to 50-minute drive.

The distance to Philadelphia, offering a wider array of specialized cancer centers, is considerable. A drive via the Garden State Parkway and I-195 can take upwards of 1.5 to 2.5 hours, making this a less desirable option for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit Possibilities:**

Public transportation, while available, presents a less direct route for those needing frequent medical appointments. New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes serving Lakewood. The 317 and 67 routes connect Lakewood with Toms River and other surrounding towns. However, these buses may not always align with the tight schedules often required for medical treatments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a critical factor. NJT strives to provide accessible services, with features like ramps and designated seating. However, the reliability and frequency of bus service can still pose challenges, especially for individuals undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or mobility issues.

The Lakewood Bus Terminal serves as a hub, and from there, connections to other regional transportation options can be made. However, the additional travel time and potential transfers can add significant stress to an already demanding situation.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible alternative to public transportation. Their availability in Lakewood is generally good, and they can be summoned on-demand. This provides a convenient way to reach appointments, but the cost can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent trips.

Specialized medical transport services provide another layer of support. Companies like MedRide and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often prioritize patient comfort and safety, but they also come with a higher price tag.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Framework:**

To assess the overall accessibility, we can frame a "Breast Cancer Score" based on several factors.

* **Proximity to Comprehensive Cancer Centers:** The distance and travel time to facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services, are paramount.
* **Transportation Options and Reliability:** The availability, frequency, and reliability of various transportation modes (personal vehicle, public transit, ride-sharing, medical transport) directly impact the ease of access.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The financial burden of transportation, including gas, tolls, ride-share fees, and medical transport costs, is a significant consideration.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations is crucial.
* **Support Services:** The availability of patient navigation services, which can assist with transportation arrangements, is a valuable asset.

**Scoring Considerations:**

Lakewood, with its reliance on personal vehicles and limited public transit options, might receive a moderate score on the "Breast Cancer Score." The drive times to major medical centers are manageable, but traffic can be a factor. The availability of ride-sharing services provides flexibility, while medical transport services offer specialized support. The cost of transportation, however, could be a significant concern for some patients.

**Recommendations:**

Individuals **moving to Lakewood** or residing there and facing a breast cancer diagnosis should proactively research their **healthcare access** options. This includes identifying nearby cancer centers, understanding insurance coverage for transportation, and exploring patient navigation services.

The local healthcare system should prioritize initiatives to improve **transportation** accessibility. This could involve partnerships with ride-sharing services, expansion of public transit routes, and enhanced support for medical transport providers.

Ultimately, the journey through breast cancer is a personal one. Understanding the landscape of **healthcare access** and the available **transportation** options empowers individuals to make informed decisions and navigate this challenging time with greater ease and support.