08736, Manasquan, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08736, Manasquan, New Jersey is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.35 percent of residents in 08736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 4.56 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 08736

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, becomes a pivotal factor in patient outcomes. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 08736 (Manasquan, New Jersey), assesses the accessibility of lung cancer treatment, considering transportation options, drive times, and the availability of various services. This information is crucial for residents and those contemplating moving to Manasquan, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access within the community.

Manasquan, a charming coastal town, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The very nature of its location, while offering scenic beauty, necessitates careful consideration of how residents will access potentially life-saving medical care. The "Lung Cancer Score" aims to illuminate these considerations.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in and out of Manasquan is Route 35. Traveling north on Route 35 provides access to healthcare facilities in the neighboring towns of Wall Township and Belmar. Expect drive times to vary significantly depending on traffic, especially during peak hours and the summer months. A trip to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune Township, a major regional hospital, usually takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 35 North, but this can easily extend to 45 minutes or more during rush hour.

Heading south on Route 35 can lead to hospitals in Point Pleasant and Brick Township. These facilities may offer specialized care, but driving times can be similar, contingent on traffic flow. Another crucial road is the Garden State Parkway. Accessing the Parkway requires navigating local roads, adding to the overall travel time. The Parkway provides quicker access to hospitals further north, such as those in Long Branch, but it also introduces toll costs.

For those with lung cancer, frequent appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and potential emergency visits make drive times a critical concern. Longer travel times can lead to increased stress, fatigue, and potentially delayed treatment.

**Public Transit Perspectives:**

Public transportation in 08736 offers an alternative, though its availability is limited. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the area. The 317 bus route operates through Manasquan, connecting it to neighboring towns. However, bus schedules can be infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. This can pose a significant challenge for patients requiring timely access to medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. NJT buses are generally equipped with features like ramps and priority seating to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall convenience of bus travel must be carefully evaluated. Transferring between bus routes, or from bus to other modes of transport, can be cumbersome for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment.

The train service, accessible via the Bay Head station, offers a faster and more direct route to some destinations, including New York City. However, the train does not directly serve many of the local hospitals and medical centers. Therefore, a combination of train and other transportation methods would be required, adding complexity to the journey.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Manasquan. They offer a convenient, on-demand transportation option, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, ride-share availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Costs can also be a factor, with fares potentially increasing during peak demand.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients. These services offer non-emergency medical transport, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide these services in the region. They are particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to travel independently. These services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they offer a higher level of support and are tailored to medical needs.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Framework:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 08736 considers these factors:

* **Drive Time to Major Hospitals:** Assesses the average time to reach hospitals with comprehensive lung cancer treatment facilities.
* **Public Transportation Accessibility:** Evaluates the frequency, reliability, and ADA compliance of bus and train services.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport Availability:** Examines the availability, cost, and suitability of these services for lung cancer patients.
* **Proximity to Treatment Centers:** Considers the distance to radiation oncology centers, chemotherapy infusion suites, and specialized lung cancer clinics.
* **Overall Patient Experience:** Incorporates factors such as parking availability, ease of navigation within medical facilities, and the availability of support services.

**Implications for Moving to Manasquan:**

For those considering moving to Manasquan, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides valuable insights into healthcare access. While Manasquan offers a desirable lifestyle, the availability and accessibility of lung cancer treatment are vital considerations. Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare needs of their family members and assess the practicality of transportation options.

The proximity to Jersey Shore University Medical Center is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on Route 35 and the potential for traffic congestion must be acknowledged. The limited public transportation options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 08736 highlights the complexities of healthcare access in a coastal community. While the area offers access to quality medical facilities, transportation limitations and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can pose challenges. For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, or those at risk, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements. The information provided in this write-up should empower residents and potential newcomers to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively, ensuring timely access to potentially life-saving treatments.