08733, Lakehurst, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08733, Lakehurst, New Jersey is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.37 percent of residents in 08733 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 6.25 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lakehurst, NJ (ZIP Code 08733)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is significant. For individuals contemplating a move to Lakehurst, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08733), understanding the landscape of lung cancer care is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial factors in determining a "Lung Cancer Score" for this community. This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential healthcare facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The geographical positioning of Lakehurst, nestled in Ocean County, influences healthcare accessibility. Proximity to major medical centers is a key determinant. The efficiency of transportation directly impacts the patient experience, influencing factors like stress levels, appointment adherence, and overall quality of life. A higher "Lung Cancer Score" indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**Driving Directions: The Road to Care**

For those who prefer the autonomy of personal vehicles, understanding drive times is essential. Several major roadways serve Lakehurst. The Garden State Parkway provides north-south access, while Route 70 and Route 37 offer east-west connectivity. The New Jersey Turnpike, though not directly accessible, is a viable option for those traveling from further distances.

Reaching the closest major hospitals requires careful planning. Community Medical Center in Toms River, approximately 10-15 miles away, is a primary destination. The drive typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which can be heavy during peak hours, particularly on Route 37. Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch, further afield, is approximately 35-40 miles away, translating to a drive time of around an hour, depending on traffic on the Garden State Parkway.

Consider the impact of traffic. Rush hour congestion on Route 70 and Route 37 can significantly extend travel times. The Garden State Parkway, while offering a faster route, can also experience delays, especially during summer weekends. Planning appointments outside of peak traffic periods is highly recommended.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid the stress of driving. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the area. The 559 bus route, for instance, connects various towns in Ocean County, including Lakehurst, with destinations like Toms River. The 559 bus offers a connection to the train lines that run through the area.

However, public transit options have limitations. Bus schedules may not align perfectly with medical appointment times. Travel times can be longer than driving, and transfers between routes may be necessary. Accessibility is another crucial consideration. While NJT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses with ramps and designated seating, not all routes or stops may be fully accessible. Confirming ADA accessibility before relying on public transit is critical.

The train provides a more direct route to some of the larger hospitals in the area. The train station in Toms River is a short ride away from Community Medical Center. The train also provides access to the New York area, which offers access to a wide variety of hospitals and medical facilities.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand transportation. These services can be particularly useful for individuals unable to drive or needing immediate transportation. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. Surge pricing, which increases fares during peak hours, can also be a factor.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require pre-booking and may be covered by insurance. The availability of these services in Lakehurst and their coverage by insurance plans should be thoroughly investigated.

**Calculating the Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Approach**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lakehurst, NJ (08733) is not a simple numerical value. It's a composite assessment considering several factors. Drive times to major hospitals, the reliability and accessibility of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall cost of transportation all contribute to the score.

A high score would indicate easy access to multiple hospitals, frequent and reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing and medical transport options, and affordable transportation costs. A lower score would reflect challenges in accessing healthcare, such as long drive times, limited public transit, and high transportation costs.

**Moving to Lakehurst: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering a move to Lakehurst, understanding this "Lung Cancer Score" is critical. It is imperative to research the local healthcare landscape thoroughly. Contacting local hospitals, primary care physicians, and patient advocacy groups can provide valuable insights.

Consider the potential impact of transportation on your overall quality of life. Factor in the time and cost associated with reaching medical appointments. Assess the availability of support services, such as home healthcare and palliative care, which can further enhance the patient experience.

Ultimately, the decision to relocate is a personal one. By carefully evaluating the transportation options and healthcare resources available in Lakehurst, prospective residents can make informed choices that prioritize their health and well-being. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a framework for evaluating these crucial aspects, ensuring that access to quality healthcare is a key consideration in the decision-making process.