07732, Highlands, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07732, Highlands, New Jersey is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.86 percent of residents in 07732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 5.21 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highlands, NJ (ZIP Code 07732)

Moving to a new town, especially one as charming as Highlands, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07732), involves a myriad of considerations. Beyond the allure of the waterfront and the quaint shops, a crucial factor for anyone, particularly those with health concerns, is healthcare access. This write-up delves into the "Lung Cancer Score" for Highlands, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-share possibilities, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and prospective movers.

Highlands, nestled on the northern tip of the Monmouth County peninsula, presents a unique challenge. Its geographical location, while offering stunning views, can complicate transportation to specialized medical care. The "Lung Cancer Score" here considers the time and ease of reaching facilities equipped to handle the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This includes access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, surgical specialists, and support services.

The primary mode of transportation for many Highlands residents is the automobile. Driving to healthcare appointments often involves navigating the local road network. Route 36, the main artery through Highlands, offers a direct route to the Garden State Parkway. From there, access to major medical centers is possible. Driving south on the Parkway, you can reach Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

Further south, in Long Branch, is Monmouth Medical Center, a slightly longer drive, typically 30 to 45 minutes via the Parkway or Route 36. Monmouth Medical Center is a major regional hospital with a robust oncology program. These drive times, however, are susceptible to traffic, especially during peak commuting hours or summer weekends. The Parkway can become congested, adding significant time to travel.

Heading north, the closest major medical center is in Staten Island, New York. This journey involves crossing the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, potentially a 45- to 60-minute drive, again contingent on traffic. While offering access to New York City's renowned medical institutions, the commute presents its own set of challenges, including tolls and potential delays.

Public transportation provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. NJ Transit operates bus routes in the area. The 834 bus, for example, connects Highlands to key towns along the Route 36 corridor, including Middletown and Red Bank. However, these routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, requiring transfers or a combination of bus and ride-share services. The 834 bus is generally ADA accessible, equipped with ramps and designated seating.

The train is also an option. The North Jersey Coast Line, with stations in nearby towns like Little Silver and Red Bank, offers a more direct route to New York City and other areas with extensive medical facilities. However, reaching these train stations from Highlands necessitates a bus ride, ride-share, or driving, adding to the overall travel time. The train stations themselves are generally ADA compliant.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Highlands. These services provide a convenient option for door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Availability may also be limited during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance, are available in the area. These services, often provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local private providers, offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They can transport patients to and from appointments, providing a crucial service for those unable to drive or utilize public transportation. These services require advance booking and can be expensive.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Highlands, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the town benefits from its proximity to major medical centers, the reliance on cars and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. Public transportation offers an alternative, but its limitations and the need for transfers can increase travel time. Ride-share services and medical transport provide valuable options, but at a cost.

For individuals considering moving to Highlands, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. Assessing your individual healthcare needs, including the frequency of appointments and the need for specialized care, will help you determine the suitability of Highlands. Researching the specific medical facilities you may need to access, including their locations and the transportation options available, is highly recommended.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, influenced by individual circumstances and evolving transportation options. Living in Highlands offers a lifestyle many find desirable, but it is imperative to weigh the beauty of the location with the reality of healthcare access. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and understanding the potential transportation challenges are crucial for ensuring access to quality healthcare. The journey to healthcare, like the journey of life, requires careful planning and the right tools to navigate the road ahead.