08722, Beachwood, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08722, Beachwood, New Jersey is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.77 percent of residents in 08722 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 9.85 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 08722

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical illness like breast cancer, is a complex equation. It's not just about the quality of medical professionals, but also the accessibility of their services. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP code 08722 (Beachwood, NJ), focusing on the crucial element of **transportation**. We'll examine the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services available to those seeking breast cancer care. This information is vital for anyone considering **moving to Beachwood** or already residing within this community, especially those concerned about **healthcare access**.

Beachwood, nestled within Ocean County, offers a suburban charm, but its proximity to quality healthcare facilities is a significant factor in its livability. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape efficiently directly impacts the patient's ability to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. A high Breast Cancer Score reflects a community that prioritizes accessibility, reducing stress and improving outcomes for those battling this disease.

Let's begin by analyzing the most common mode of **transportation**: driving. The primary arteries serving Beachwood are the Garden State Parkway and Route 9. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive to major healthcare providers can vary significantly.

For instance, Community Medical Center in Toms River, a well-regarded facility with a comprehensive breast cancer program, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via the Garden State Parkway or Route 37. However, during peak rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, significantly impacting appointment adherence and increasing patient anxiety. Similarly, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood, another potential care provider, is roughly a 20-25 minute drive via Route 9, but again, traffic can drastically alter the timeline.

Further afield, the drive to specialized cancer centers in the region, such as those in Red Bank or New Brunswick, can take upwards of an hour, especially when factoring in potential traffic congestion on the Garden State Parkway or the New Jersey Turnpike. This extended travel time highlights the importance of considering alternative **transportation** options.

Public transit, while less prevalent in suburban areas, offers a crucial lifeline for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. The Ocean Ride bus system provides some service within Ocean County, but its routes and frequency are limited. Specifically, the Route 559 bus does offer service along Route 9, potentially connecting Beachwood residents to some medical facilities. However, the schedules are often infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve all hospitals or cancer centers.

The Ocean Ride buses are designed to be ADA-accessible, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited scope of the system poses a significant challenge for those relying on public **transportation** for their breast cancer care. The lack of direct routes and the potential for multiple transfers can add considerable time and stress to an already demanding journey.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible, albeit potentially expensive, alternative. While readily available in the 08722 area, surge pricing during peak hours or in times of high demand can make these services cost-prohibitive. The availability of these services also depends on driver availability, which can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. For patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, the cost and reliability of ride-sharing become critical considerations.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to address the needs of patients requiring assistance with their **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Ocean County area, including Atlantic Ambulance, Quality Medical Transport, and Care Ride. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, depending on the distance and the level of care required.

The availability and affordability of medical transport are crucial for patients who are unable to drive themselves or rely on public **transportation**. These services provide a vital link to care, ensuring that patients can attend appointments and receive treatment without the added burden of navigating complex **transportation** challenges.

The Breast Cancer Score for 08722 is moderately impacted by the **transportation** landscape. While the proximity to some healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the potential cost of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transport all contribute to a complex picture.

For individuals considering **moving to Beachwood** or already residing there, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. The ability to drive and the financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services significantly enhance **healthcare access**. Those relying on public **transportation** will face greater challenges.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as family members or friends who can provide rides, is a crucial element in navigating the **transportation** challenges. The Breast Cancer Score isn't just about the physical infrastructure; it also encompasses the social support network available to patients.

In conclusion, while Beachwood offers a desirable lifestyle, the **transportation** challenges associated with accessing breast cancer care must be carefully considered. The drive times, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport all play a significant role in determining the overall Breast Cancer Score. For those seeking optimal **healthcare access**, a proactive approach to planning **transportation** is essential. This includes exploring all available options, building a strong support network, and understanding the potential financial implications of each mode of travel. This is a crucial factor for anyone contemplating **moving to Beachwood** or any community.