07750, Monmouth Beach, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07750, Monmouth Beach, New Jersey is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.04 percent of residents in 07750 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center with a distance of 2.53 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Monmouth Beach, NJ (ZIP Code 07750)

The salty air and charming coastal vistas of Monmouth Beach, New Jersey, offer a desirable quality of life. However, when considering a move to this idyllic community, prospective residents must also assess their healthcare access, particularly concerning a potentially devastating diagnosis like lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 07750, evaluating transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and ride-share/medical transport availability, painting a clear picture of the challenges and advantages residents face in navigating the healthcare landscape.

The primary concern is the timely access to specialized lung cancer care, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), pulmonology consultations, oncology appointments, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. Delays in diagnosis and treatment significantly impact patient outcomes. Therefore, the efficiency and reliability of transportation become paramount.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

For residents of Monmouth Beach, the automobile remains the most common mode of transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the Garden State Parkway and Route 36. Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 36, depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, especially weekday mornings and evenings, this commute can extend to 20-30 minutes.

Further afield, but offering specialized care, is the Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune. This facility is accessible via the Garden State Parkway, requiring a drive time of roughly 20-30 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow. The journey to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, a major cancer center, requires a longer commute, typically around 45-60 minutes via the Garden State Parkway and Route 18. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment, particularly those experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

Navigating these routes requires careful planning, especially for appointments that demand punctuality, such as radiation therapy sessions. Traffic updates and alternative routes are essential tools for residents.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Monmouth Beach are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes that serve the area, but their frequency and coverage are less than ideal for frequent medical appointments.

The NJT Route 834 provides service along Ocean Avenue, connecting Monmouth Beach to Long Branch and Asbury Park. While this route offers a potential link to Monmouth Medical Center, the schedule may not align with appointment times, and the travel time is often longer than driving due to multiple stops. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses on this route should be confirmed to ensure accessibility for patients with mobility limitations.

The NJT North Jersey Coast Line train, with stations in nearby towns like Long Branch and Little Silver, offers a faster connection to New York City and other areas. However, it does not directly serve Monmouth Beach. Patients would need to use a combination of bus and train, which adds complexity and travel time to their healthcare journey.

The reliance on public transportation for lung cancer treatment presents several hurdles, including the potential for longer travel times, the need for multiple transfers, and the challenges of navigating public spaces while undergoing treatment.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide an alternative transportation option, offering on-demand rides to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent visits. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in Monmouth Beach, particularly during off-peak hours, may be limited.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, cater specifically to patients needing assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While offering convenience and specialized support, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability of medical transport services in Monmouth Beach is crucial for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transportation due to their condition or treatment side effects. Thorough research of available providers and their associated costs is essential.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Monmouth Beach (ZIP code 07750) reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While the proximity to Monmouth Medical Center offers a significant advantage, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning and reliance on alternative transportation options.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Proximity to Cancer Centers:** The close proximity to Monmouth Medical Center is a positive factor.
* **Drive Times:** The drive times to key facilities are generally reasonable, but traffic congestion can impact reliability.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The limited public transit options pose a significant challenge.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport Availability:** The availability of these services provides crucial support, but cost and availability are concerns.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

For individuals considering moving to Monmouth Beach, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, the following recommendations are crucial:

1. **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive and the potential impact of traffic on your commute to medical appointments.
2. **Research Public Transit:** Investigate the NJT bus routes and their schedules to determine their feasibility for your needs.
3. **Explore Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:** Identify local providers and understand their costs, availability, and services.
4. **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Prioritize housing locations that offer convenient access to healthcare providers.
5. **Plan for Contingencies:** Develop backup transportation plans for times when your primary mode of transportation is unavailable.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

Moving to Monmouth Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, but the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully considering healthcare access. While the area boasts a reputable medical center within a short drive, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic delays require proactive planning. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing their healthcare needs, residents can navigate the challenges and access the vital care they need. This underscores the importance of thorough research and a commitment to prioritizing healthcare access when considering a move to this coastal community. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor in ensuring positive health outcomes for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.