08247, Stone Harbor, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08247, Stone Harbor, New Jersey is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.94 percent of residents in 08247 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Regional Medical Center Inc with a distance of 3.89 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stone Harbor (ZIP Code 08247)

The sun-drenched shores of Stone Harbor, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08247), beckon with promises of idyllic living. But beneath the surface of this coastal paradise lies a crucial consideration for prospective residents: healthcare access, particularly for a serious illness like lung cancer. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation infrastructure, a vital component of healthcare access, to determine the ease with which individuals in Stone Harbor can reach essential medical services. It considers the time and effort involved in accessing specialists, treatment centers, and diagnostic facilities, factoring in various transportation options.

For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, timely access to care is paramount. This score evaluates the practicality of reaching healthcare facilities from Stone Harbor, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities that residents might encounter, offering a crucial perspective for anyone considering moving to Stone Harbor.

The primary method of transportation in and out of Stone Harbor is, of course, by car. The town is situated on a barrier island, accessible via the iconic Stone Harbor Boulevard, which seamlessly connects to the Garden State Parkway. The Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers in the region. Drive times to these facilities are central to our score.

To reach Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May Court House, a well-regarded hospital with oncology services, the drive is typically a manageable 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves navigating Stone Harbor Boulevard to the Garden State Parkway and heading south. The Parkway's efficiency makes this a relatively straightforward commute.

For more specialized care, the drive to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City, a facility with advanced cancer treatment options, extends to approximately 45-60 minutes. This route involves the Garden State Parkway, heading north. Traffic, particularly during peak seasons, can significantly impact this travel time. The Parkway, while generally efficient, can become congested, especially during the summer months, potentially delaying access to critical care.

Public transportation options in Stone Harbor are limited. The primary provider is the Cape May County Bridge Commission, which operates a bus service. However, this service is primarily geared towards local travel and does not offer direct routes to major hospitals or cancer treatment centers. The buses are not equipped with extensive ADA features, which could pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Stone Harbor. However, their reliability and availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. While these services offer a convenient option, they are not a guaranteed solution for regular medical appointments or emergency situations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are available in the region. Companies like Med-Trans and Liberty Medical Transportation offer specialized transportation for medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transportation. However, availability and scheduling constraints should be considered.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Stone Harbor considers these factors. The relatively short drive times to Cape Regional Medical Center, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation, contribute positively to the score. However, the longer drive to AtlantiCare in Atlantic City, the limited public transit, and the reliance on private vehicles introduce challenges.

For individuals with lung cancer, or those at high risk, proximity to specialized care is critical. While Stone Harbor offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation considerations are essential. The availability of medical transportation services is a significant advantage, ensuring access to care for those who cannot drive.

The score takes into account the potential for traffic delays, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The reliance on the Garden State Parkway, while generally efficient, is a factor that needs careful consideration. The lack of robust public transportation options necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Stone Harbor, this assessment provides a crucial framework for evaluating healthcare access. It is not just about the beauty of the beaches; it is about understanding the practicalities of navigating the healthcare system. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of planning for transportation, particularly for those with existing health conditions or those concerned about future healthcare needs.

The final score reflects a nuanced picture. Stone Harbor offers reasonable access to healthcare, particularly with the availability of medical transportation. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays warrant careful consideration. The score underscores the importance of proactive planning and understanding the transportation landscape when making decisions about healthcare access in this beautiful coastal community.