08758, Waretown, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08758, Waretown, New Jersey is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.62 percent of residents in 08758 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 19.43 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Waretown (ZIP Code 08758)

The picturesque coastal community of Waretown, New Jersey, nestled within the 08758 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the critical element of **transportation**, a cornerstone of successful treatment and recovery. It explores the various pathways to healthcare, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all crucial factors for those contemplating **moving to Waretown** or seeking care within the area.

The journey to healthcare begins with understanding the geography. Waretown, a relatively small town, is flanked by the Garden State Parkway to the east and Route 9, a major north-south artery, running parallel to the coast. The primary medical centers serving the area are located in neighboring towns, creating a reliance on efficient **transportation** networks.

For those with the means, personal vehicles offer the most direct route. Driving to Community Medical Center in Toms River, a common destination for specialized care, involves a trip of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route typically utilizes Route 9, then merges onto the Garden State Parkway, exiting at the Toms River exits. Alternatively, driving south on Route 9 to Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin takes roughly 15-20 minutes, a slightly shorter commute. These drive times, while manageable, are subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and summer months.

The availability of public **transportation** in Waretown is limited, presenting a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The Ocean Ride bus system, operated by the Ocean County Department of Transportation, provides some service. Route 559, the primary route serving Waretown, offers connections to Toms River and other key destinations. However, the frequency of service can be infrequent, with limited weekend and evening schedules. Furthermore, the reliability of public transit can be affected by weather conditions, which are frequent.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. Ocean Ride buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the accessibility of bus stops, particularly in rural areas, may vary. Individuals with mobility limitations should verify the accessibility of their chosen bus stops before relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to public transit, providing on-demand **transportation**. While these services are available in Waretown, their availability and cost can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide another option. These services, often offered by private companies, typically provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility. While medical transport offers convenience and specialized care, it is often the most expensive option, and requires pre-booking.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Waretown, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. The proximity of medical facilities is a positive aspect, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport further influence the overall score.

For individuals contemplating **moving to Waretown** and those seeking **healthcare access**, careful consideration of **transportation** options is paramount. Assessing one's ability to drive, the availability of family or friends for rides, and the affordability of alternative **transportation** methods is crucial.

The journey to healthcare, especially for those battling lung cancer, is a complex one. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of understanding the **transportation** landscape within the 08758 ZIP code. A proactive approach, including planning for **transportation** needs, can significantly improve **healthcare access** and contribute to a better quality of life for those living in Waretown.