08244, Somers Point, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08244, Somers Point, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.99 percent of residents in 08244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Shore Medical Center with a distance of 0.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Somers Point, NJ (ZIP Code 08244)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and decisive action. Early detection and access to specialized care are paramount, significantly impacting survival rates. This write-up explores the crucial intersection of transportation and healthcare access for residents of Somers Point, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08244), providing a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Somers Point, who must prioritize their health needs.

The “Lung Cancer Score” isn't a numerical value but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the ease with which a resident can reach essential medical services, specifically those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This score considers various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, each playing a vital role in determining a patient's ability to access timely and appropriate care.

The primary healthcare hub for Somers Point residents is AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center (ARMC), Mainland Campus, located in Pomona, approximately 10 miles away. This facility houses a comprehensive oncology program, including pulmonology specialists, diagnostic imaging, and radiation therapy. The drive to ARMC is generally straightforward, utilizing the Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery. Expect a drive time of 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Route 9, a secondary road, provides an alternative, albeit often slower, route, especially during peak hours.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options exist, though they present significant limitations. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes in the area. The 509 bus route, which runs along Bay Avenue in Somers Point, offers a connection to the 505 route, which travels to Atlantic City, where ARMC’s City Campus offers additional medical services. However, this journey involves multiple transfers and can take over an hour, significantly impacting the Lung Cancer Score. ADA accessibility varies across these routes; it's crucial to confirm specific features with NJT before relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation avenue. Availability in Somers Point is generally good, particularly during daylight hours. However, surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather could significantly increase costs, adding a financial burden to an already challenging situation. The accessibility of ride-sharing for patients with mobility limitations should also be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and Liberty Medical Transportation operate in the region, providing door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services offer convenience and peace of mind, they can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies.

The Lung Cancer Score for Somers Point, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. The proximity to ARMC, with its comprehensive oncology services, is a significant positive. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation negatively impact the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport provides additional options, but cost and accessibility considerations temper their positive impact.

The ability to quickly access diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, is crucial for lung cancer detection. ARMC Mainland Campus offers these services, but travel time is a factor. Furthermore, access to specialized treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, is vital. ARMC's oncology program provides these services, but the patient's ability to consistently attend appointments is directly linked to transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Somers Point, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those reliant on public transportation or facing mobility challenges should carefully evaluate the accessibility of medical services. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport should be factored into their financial planning.

The impact of transportation on the Lung Cancer Score extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It also affects a patient's overall well-being. Stress related to transportation delays or difficulties can exacerbate health issues. Furthermore, the ability to have family members or caregivers accompany patients to appointments is often contingent on transportation options.

The quality of life for a lung cancer patient is significantly impacted by healthcare access. A high Lung Cancer Score indicates a system that facilitates timely and convenient access to care, reducing stress and improving the patient's ability to focus on their treatment and recovery. A lower score suggests challenges that require proactive planning and resourcefulness.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Somers Point, while not perfect, provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this community. By carefully considering the transportation options available and proactively planning for potential challenges, residents can improve their chances of receiving the timely and appropriate care they need. The presence of a strong oncology program at ARMC, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, provides a degree of optimism. However, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare access for all residents, especially those battling lung cancer.