08731, Forked River, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08731, Forked River, New Jersey is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.05 percent of residents in 08731 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 16.75 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Forked River, NJ (ZIP Code 08731)

Moving to a new community, especially when considering healthcare needs, requires careful evaluation. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focuses on transportation and healthcare access within and from ZIP Code 08731 (Forked River, NJ). This score aims to illuminate the ease of accessing breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities, crucial for individuals and families seeking comprehensive care. The accessibility of transportation options significantly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent medical attention.

Forked River, a coastal community, presents unique transportation challenges. While offering a quieter lifestyle, its relative isolation from major urban centers necessitates careful consideration of travel times and available resources. The "Breast Cancer Score" will explore these factors, providing a clearer picture for those prioritizing healthcare access.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Road Ahead**

The primary mode of transportation in Forked River is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars necessitates an understanding of drive times to nearby healthcare facilities. For residents of 08731, the most direct routes to specialized breast cancer care often involve travel along the Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery. Accessing the Parkway is relatively straightforward, typically via Route 9, a busy commercial corridor.

Navigating Route 9 can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Traffic congestion can significantly extend travel times, impacting appointments and potentially delaying critical care. The distance to facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services is a key element of the "Breast Cancer Score."

Ocean Medical Center in Brick Township, approximately 15-20 miles north, is a significant healthcare provider. A drive to Ocean Medical Center, utilizing the Garden State Parkway, usually takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This facility offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment options. The drive time is a critical factor in the "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

Another option is Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch, approximately 35-40 miles north. The journey to Long Branch, also primarily via the Garden State Parkway, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer travel time impacts the "Breast Cancer Score," reflecting the increased burden on patients.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Forked River are limited. The availability of public transit significantly affects the "Breast Cancer Score," particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

The Ocean Ride bus system, operated by the Ocean County Department of Transportation, provides some service within Ocean County. However, routes are infrequent and may not directly connect Forked River to major healthcare facilities. The limited frequency and potential for multiple transfers can make these routes impractical for regular medical appointments.

The absence of direct public transit routes to specialized breast cancer centers significantly lowers the "Breast Cancer Score." The challenges associated with relying on public transportation underscore the importance of alternative options.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on Ocean Ride buses is a critical consideration. All Ocean Ride buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times remain significant drawbacks.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Forked River can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a factor in the "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide another avenue. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Services of NJ offer specialized transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services, while potentially more expensive than ride-sharing, can be a crucial resource for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. The availability and affordability of medical transportation services contribute to the "Breast Cancer Score."

**The "Breast Cancer Score" – A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 08731 incorporates the following factors: drive times to breast cancer care facilities, the availability and frequency of public transportation, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. The score reflects the overall ease of accessing timely and consistent healthcare.

The score is weighted, with drive times carrying the most significant weight due to the reliance on personal vehicles. The limited public transit options and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability also impact the score. The accessibility and affordability of medical transportation services provide a partial offset to these challenges.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Forked River**

For individuals considering moving to Forked River (08731) and prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for this area reflects these complexities. While Ocean Medical Center in Brick Township offers a relatively accessible option, the longer travel times to other specialized facilities and the limitations of public transportation impact the overall score.

Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and explore all available options. This detailed assessment provides a valuable framework for understanding the healthcare accessibility landscape in Forked River, empowering informed decisions and ensuring access to vital breast cancer care. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a guide for individuals seeking a community that prioritizes healthcare access.