08742, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08742, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.65 percent of residents in 08742 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 3.55 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Point Pleasant Beach (ZIP Code 08742)**

For those considering a move to the charming coastal town of Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey (ZIP code 08742), understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical concern like breast cancer, is paramount. This report, the "Breast Cancer Score," aims to provide a comprehensive overview of transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services, thereby aiding informed decision-making. The goal is to illuminate the realities of **transportation** challenges and opportunities, ultimately impacting **healthcare access** for potential residents.

Point Pleasant Beach, a haven for beachgoers and families, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**. The town's relative isolation, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Manasquan River, influences the ease of reaching specialized medical facilities. The **Breast Cancer Score** considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, providing a holistic view of the journey to care.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents is the personal vehicle. The **Breast Cancer Score** analyzes drive times to key breast cancer treatment centers, factoring in typical traffic conditions and potential delays. Accessing specialized care often necessitates travel outside of Point Pleasant Beach.

The most direct route to many facilities involves navigating the Garden State Parkway. Traveling north on the Parkway, one can reach Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, a regional hub for cancer care, in approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The Parkway's tolls and potential congestion, particularly during peak hours and summer weekends, must be considered.

Alternatively, traveling south on the Parkway, then east on Route 37, offers access to Community Medical Center in Toms River. This drive, usually taking 30-40 minutes, provides another option for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Route 37, while generally efficient, can experience significant traffic during rush hour, impacting **healthcare access**.

For those seeking specialized care at facilities in New York City, the drive is significantly longer. The journey involves navigating the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and potentially the Lincoln Tunnel or the Outerbridge Crossing. This trip can take upwards of two hours, excluding potential delays, making it less convenient for frequent appointments and treatments.

Understanding these drive times is crucial for assessing the feasibility of accessing timely care. The **Breast Cancer Score** emphasizes the importance of factoring in travel time when considering treatment options and appointment scheduling.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in Point Pleasant Beach are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the area, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities.

The primary bus route serving Point Pleasant Beach is the 317, which connects to Toms River and other regional hubs. However, the 317’s frequency is limited, particularly on weekends, making it less reliable for time-sensitive medical appointments. This impacts **healthcare access**.

The 317 bus does not directly connect to Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Passengers would need to transfer to another bus or utilize a ride-sharing service. This adds to the travel time and complexity, potentially creating barriers to **healthcare access**.

ADA accessibility on NJT buses is generally available, but it is essential to confirm specific features and availability when planning a trip. The **Breast Cancer Score** highlights the need for careful planning and coordination when relying on public **transportation** for medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative to personal vehicles and public **transportation**. These services are generally available in Point Pleasant Beach, but availability and pricing can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day.

The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The **Breast Cancer Score** emphasizes the need to factor in these costs when budgeting for **healthcare access**.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by MedRide and CareRide, cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with medical needs.

Medical transport services are particularly valuable for patients undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to drive or use public **transportation**. While offering convenience and support, these services can be expensive and require advance booking.

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

The **Breast Cancer Score** considers all these factors – drive times, public **transportation** limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options – to provide a comprehensive assessment of **healthcare access** in Point Pleasant Beach. It acknowledges the challenges posed by the town's location and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care.

For those considering **moving to Point Pleasant Beach**, understanding these **transportation** realities is crucial. The **Breast Cancer Score** encourages prospective residents to evaluate their individual needs and circumstances, considering factors such as treatment frequency, mobility limitations, and financial resources.

The **Breast Cancer Score** is not a definitive rating but a guide to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available options, and seeking support from healthcare providers and community resources. By understanding the complexities of **healthcare access** in Point Pleasant Beach, individuals can make informed choices that prioritize their health and well-being.