07711, Allenhurst, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07711, Allenhurst, New Jersey is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.64 percent of residents in 07711 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jersey Shore University Medical Center with a distance of 2.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Allenhurst, NJ (ZIP Code 07711)

The air hangs thick with the scent of salt and sea in Allenhurst, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07711), a picturesque coastal community. But beneath the idyllic surface lies a crucial question for residents and those considering a move: how easily can one access potentially life-saving healthcare, particularly for a disease like lung cancer? This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access within and around Allenhurst, providing a detailed perspective on navigating the crucial journey to care.

Allenhurst, with its charming Victorian homes and proximity to the Atlantic, presents a unique challenge. The borough's small size translates to limited on-site medical facilities. This necessitates reliance on surrounding towns and cities for specialized healthcare, particularly for oncology services. Our analysis focuses on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial factors in determining the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Allenhurst is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Driving offers the greatest flexibility, allowing for direct routes to hospitals and cancer centers. The Garden State Parkway, a major artery, provides a swift north-south corridor. Heading north, a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes will bring you to Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, a prominent healthcare provider. The journey involves a short hop onto the Parkway, followed by an exit and local road travel.

Southbound on the Parkway, a similar drive time, perhaps slightly longer depending on traffic, leads to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune. This option is particularly attractive for those residing in the southern reaches of Allenhurst. These drive times assume moderate traffic conditions. Peak hours, especially during the summer months when the Jersey Shore experiences a surge in visitors, can significantly extend travel times.

Secondary roads, like Deal Road and Allenhurst Avenue, offer alternative routes, though they are often slower and more susceptible to traffic congestion. These roads are essential for navigating the local area, providing access to pharmacies, primary care physicians, and other essential services. Residents, especially those with mobility issues or limited access to a car, must consider these alternative routes and their potential impact on healthcare access.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complex picture. New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes that serve the area. The 830 and 831 routes, for example, connect Allenhurst to neighboring towns and cities. However, these routes often involve multiple transfers and longer travel times compared to driving. For individuals undergoing cancer treatment, the physical demands of navigating public transit, including potential exposure to inclement weather and the need to stand for extended periods, can be significant barriers.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. While NJT strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the availability of accessible buses and the ease of navigating stations can vary. Those with mobility limitations, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or recovering from surgery, may find public transit challenging. The "Lung Cancer Score" must factor in the practical realities of using public transportation for individuals with compromised health.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services in Allenhurst, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, should also be considered. The reliability of these services is a vital component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a dedicated solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local providers often offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. While these services provide a valuable resource, they come with associated costs, which can be a financial burden for some patients.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the availability of support services within Allenhurst and the surrounding communities. Support groups, counseling services, and palliative care options can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals battling lung cancer. Access to these services, often located within hospitals or community centers, depends on the ease of transportation. The ability to attend support groups and access mental health services is an integral part of the overall healthcare experience.

Moving to Allenhurst, while offering a desirable lifestyle, necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" for this ZIP code highlights the importance of having a reliable transportation plan. This plan should consider the various options available: personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. The most effective plan is often a combination of these options, tailored to the individual's needs and circumstances.

The proximity of quality healthcare facilities like Monmouth Medical Center and Jersey Shore University Medical Center provides a crucial advantage. However, the reliance on transportation underscores the need for careful planning and consideration. Residents and prospective movers must weigh the benefits of coastal living against the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical tool for understanding these complexities and making informed decisions about healthcare access in Allenhurst, New Jersey.