08720, Allenwood, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08720, Allenwood, New Jersey is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.27 percent of residents in 08720 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 4.50 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Allenwood, NJ (ZIP Code 08720)

Understanding the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare is paramount for residents considering a move to Allenwood, New Jersey (ZIP code 08720), or for those already residing there. This analysis, the “Breast Cancer Score,” evaluates transportation options to essential medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of healthcare access, crucial for informed decision-making and peace of mind.

The foundation of healthcare access in Allenwood rests on the availability of transportation. A critical factor in a positive “Breast Cancer Score” is the ease with which residents can reach diagnostic centers, treatment facilities, and follow-up appointments. This score incorporates the time and effort required to navigate the local transportation landscape, recognizing that delays and difficulties can significantly impact a patient's well-being and treatment outcomes.

For residents of Allenwood, the primary mode of transportation to access breast cancer healthcare will likely involve personal vehicles. The major thoroughfare is the Garden State Parkway, which provides relatively direct access to hospitals and specialized cancer centers located further north and south. Commuting times will fluctuate depending on the time of day, with rush hour adding significant delays.

Traveling north on the Garden State Parkway provides access to hospitals like Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care. The drive time to this facility from Allenwood can range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Route 35, a parallel highway, offers an alternative, but is often congested, adding to travel time.

Heading south on the Garden State Parkway provides access to facilities like Ocean Medical Center in Brick. The drive time to this hospital is typically shorter, around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 70, a major east-west artery, intersects with the Parkway, offering another route, but it too can be heavily trafficked.

Public transportation options in Allenwood are limited, which can negatively impact the “Breast Cancer Score.” The primary public transit provider is New Jersey Transit (NJT). Bus routes, while available, are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. For example, a resident might need to take a bus to a transfer point, and then another bus to reach a hospital.

The NJT bus routes serving the area, such as the 67, 605, and 606, do not directly connect to major cancer centers. This necessitates a transfer or a combination of transportation methods. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize public transit. However, due to the limited routes and potential for multiple transfers, public transit may not be the most convenient option for those undergoing breast cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services are readily available in Allenwood, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of these services can also be affected by driver availability, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are another option. Companies like Logisticare and ModivCare provide non-emergency medical transportation, often coordinating rides to and from medical appointments. These services may be covered by insurance, making them a more affordable alternative to ride-sharing. However, availability and scheduling requirements can vary.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the proximity of local pharmacies and medical supply stores. Access to these resources is essential for obtaining medications, medical supplies, and supportive care items. Allenwood has several pharmacies and medical supply stores within a reasonable driving distance, offering convenient access to necessary resources.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Allenwood, NJ (08720) is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. While the Garden State Parkway provides relatively easy access to hospitals and cancer centers, traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their accessibility and cost should be carefully considered. The presence of local pharmacies and medical supply stores contributes positively to the score.

For individuals considering moving to Allenwood, or for current residents, it is crucial to assess their individual transportation needs and preferences. Those without access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in accessing breast cancer healthcare.

Individuals should research the specific transportation options available to the medical facilities they intend to utilize. This includes verifying the availability of public transit routes, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the eligibility requirements for medical transportation programs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just about drive times; it's about the overall ease and affordability of accessing healthcare. The challenges of transportation can add stress and anxiety to an already difficult situation. A comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

In conclusion, while Allenwood offers access to breast cancer healthcare through personal vehicles, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing services present challenges. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare access and underscores the need for proactive planning and research to ensure that residents can readily access the care they need. Careful consideration of these factors is vital for anyone contemplating moving to Allenwood, ensuring they can navigate the transportation landscape and receive timely and effective breast cancer care.