08755, Toms River, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08755, Toms River, New Jersey is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.16 percent of residents in 08755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 6.25 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 08755

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is fraught with emotional and logistical challenges. This analysis focuses on the crucial element of **transportation** within ZIP code 08755 (Toms River, New Jersey), aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" – a practical assessment of **healthcare access** for residents facing this disease. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount, influencing treatment options, patient well-being, and overall quality of life. For those **moving to Toms River**, this score offers a critical lens through which to evaluate the practicality of accessing vital medical services.

The score considers various modes of **transportation**, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. We examine drive times, route accessibility, and the availability of services tailored to the needs of individuals with mobility limitations, such as those undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

The primary arteries of **transportation** in 08755 are the Garden State Parkway and Route 37. The Parkway provides a north-south corridor, while Route 37 traverses east-west. These are the lifelines, but their efficiency is subject to traffic, especially during peak hours and summer months. The secondary roads, such as Hooper Avenue, Route 9, and Fischer Boulevard, are often congested, adding to travel times.

The drive time to the nearest major healthcare facilities, including Community Medical Center (CMC) and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus (MMCSC), is a critical factor. From central Toms River, the drive to CMC, located within the ZIP code, typically takes 10-15 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. MMCSC, in nearby Lakewood, can be reached in 20-30 minutes, depending on the route and traffic.

For those without private vehicles, public transit options are available, though their accessibility and frequency are limited. Ocean Ride, the Ocean County Department of Transportation's bus service, operates routes within Toms River and to surrounding towns. Route 559 is a key route, connecting Toms River to Lakewood, passing near MMCSC. However, frequency can be an issue, with buses running less frequently on weekends and evenings.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. Ocean Ride buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible stops and the ease of navigating transfer points can vary. Riders should confirm specific route accessibility and schedule adherence.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option. Availability in 08755 is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. For individuals undergoing treatment, the financial implications of frequent ride-sharing trips must be carefully considered.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar and CareRide, specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services provide a valuable option for individuals with mobility limitations, they are often more expensive than other modes of **transportation** and require advance booking.

The Breast Cancer Score for 08755 is influenced by several factors. Drive times to medical facilities are relatively short, particularly to CMC. The availability of public transit offers an alternative for those without private vehicles, but frequency and accessibility are limitations. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient option, but cost can be a barrier. Medical transport services offer specialized assistance but are the most expensive option.

The score also considers the availability of support services. The presence of local support groups, such as the American Cancer Society's Reach to Recovery program, and patient navigation services at local hospitals can significantly improve **healthcare access** and the overall patient experience. These services can assist with coordinating appointments, navigating insurance, and providing emotional support.

The ease of **healthcare access** is not solely determined by physical **transportation**. The availability of telehealth services, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can mitigate some of the challenges associated with travel. The availability of virtual appointments for follow-up visits and consultations can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score for 08755 should be interpreted with an understanding of individual circumstances. Factors such as physical mobility, financial resources, and access to social support networks will influence each person's experience. The score serves as a starting point for evaluating the **transportation** landscape and identifying potential challenges.

For those **moving to Toms River**, this analysis offers crucial insights. The proximity of medical facilities, the availability of various **transportation** options, and the presence of support services are all factors to consider when evaluating the suitability of the area. Understanding the practicalities of accessing healthcare is essential for making informed decisions about where to live and how to manage a breast cancer diagnosis.

In conclusion, while 08755 offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on private vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate a proactive approach to planning **transportation**. Exploring all available options, including ride-sharing, medical transport, and telehealth services, is essential for ensuring timely access to care and maximizing the quality of life for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The Breast Cancer Score for 08755 is a dynamic measure, and its value lies in its ability to inform decisions, facilitate planning, and ultimately, empower individuals to navigate the complexities of their healthcare journey.