08720, Allenwood, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08720, Allenwood, New Jersey is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.27 percent of residents in 08720 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 4.50 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Allenwood (ZIP Code 08720)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and efficient access to healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of Allenwood, New Jersey (ZIP code 08720), evaluating its impact on healthcare access for individuals potentially facing this devastating disease. We'll explore the practical realities of navigating the region, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial factors in determining a "Lung Cancer Score" for this community. For anyone considering moving to Allenwood, understanding these complexities is vital.

Allenwood, a quaint community nestled in Ocean County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The very essence of healthcare access hinges on the ability to reach medical facilities promptly. This is especially true for lung cancer patients, who often require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors, providing a realistic picture of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on patient outcomes.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Allenwood are the Garden State Parkway and Route 70. The Parkway, a toll road, offers relatively swift north-south travel. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and summer weekends, can significantly extend drive times, potentially delaying crucial medical appointments. Route 70, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to various medical facilities but is also prone to heavy traffic, especially near shopping centers and intersections.

From Allenwood, the nearest hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment include Community Medical Center in Toms River and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch. The drive to Community Medical Center, typically a 20-30 minute journey via Route 70, can easily stretch to 45 minutes or more during rush hour. Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, accessible via the Garden State Parkway and Route 36, generally requires a 30-45 minute drive, potentially longer depending on traffic conditions. These drive times underscore the importance of reliable transportation for Allenwood residents seeking specialized lung cancer care.

Navigating the local roads, such as Route 547 and various county roads, adds another layer of complexity. These roads, while providing alternative routes, often involve slower speeds and more stop-and-go traffic, further impacting travel times. Residents must carefully consider these factors when planning their healthcare journeys.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Allenwood are limited. The primary provider, New Jersey Transit (NJT), offers bus service in the area. However, the frequency of service and the routes available are not ideal for frequent medical appointments. The 317 bus route, for example, connects Toms River and Freehold, passing through Allenwood. While this route offers a potential connection to healthcare facilities, the schedules may not align with appointment times, and the journey itself can be lengthy.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. While NJT strives to provide accessible services, the reliability of these features and the overall convenience of bus travel may not be sufficient for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment. The lack of direct routes to major hospitals and the potential for long travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many residents.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving, providing on-demand transportation. However, the availability of these services in Allenwood can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, eligibility for these services is often based on specific criteria, and prior arrangements are usually required. The availability of these services and the ease of accessing them are crucial considerations for Allenwood residents.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" – A Composite Picture**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Allenwood is not a single number but a holistic assessment. It considers the following: the drive times to major hospitals, the reliability of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. It also factors in the potential for traffic delays and the overall convenience of accessing healthcare facilities.

For Allenwood, the score reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to major highways offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion, limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net, but access to these services is not guaranteed for all residents.

**Moving to Allenwood: Making Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Allenwood, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is paramount. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the drive times to healthcare facilities, assess the feasibility of using public transit, and research the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Living in Allenwood means accepting the transportation challenges. Planning ahead is essential. Residents should consider factors like the time of day for appointments, potential traffic delays, and the need for alternative transportation options. Proactive planning and a clear understanding of the available resources can mitigate the impact of transportation barriers and ensure timely access to healthcare.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. For Allenwood residents, navigating this complex landscape requires careful planning, a proactive approach, and a willingness to adapt to the realities of the local transportation system. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the timely and effective healthcare they need, regardless of their location or circumstances.