07750, Monmouth Beach, New Jersey Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 07750, Monmouth Beach, New Jersey is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.04 percent of residents in 07750 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center with a distance of 2.53 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Monmouth Beach (ZIP Code 07750)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. In the picturesque coastal community of Monmouth Beach, New Jersey (ZIP code 07750), the ease of access to specialized medical care significantly impacts the quality of life for residents. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the "Prostate Cancer Score" for this area, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing options, all vital components of healthcare access.

Monmouth Beach, a town of approximately 3,300 residents, offers a unique blend of seaside charm and proximity to urban centers. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation options for those needing regular medical appointments, including those related to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Monmouth Beach is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The major roadways serving the area are the Garden State Parkway and Route 36. The Garden State Parkway provides a north-south corridor, facilitating travel to hospitals in northern Monmouth County and beyond. Route 36, running east-west, connects Monmouth Beach to the mainland, providing access to various medical facilities.

Drive times to key healthcare providers are crucial. The closest hospital, Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, is typically a 10-15 minute drive via Route 36, depending on traffic. This short commute is a significant advantage for residents. However, specialized prostate cancer care may necessitate travel to larger facilities with advanced resources.

Traveling north on the Garden State Parkway to hospitals like Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank or Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune City, requires approximately a 20-30 minute drive, traffic permitting. These longer commutes can impact the convenience and potentially the stress levels of patients, especially those undergoing treatment that requires frequent visits.

The availability of parking at these facilities is another factor. While Monmouth Medical Center generally has adequate parking, larger hospitals, particularly during peak hours, may present challenges. This further emphasizes the importance of considering alternative transportation options.

**Public Transit: The Rails and Buses**

Public transit in Monmouth Beach, while present, is less robust than in more urban areas. The primary public transportation options are the NJ Transit bus system and the occasional use of the North Jersey Coast Line train.

NJ Transit bus route 834 serves Monmouth Beach, connecting it to Long Branch and other towns along the coast. This route provides access to Monmouth Medical Center and other medical facilities. However, the frequency of buses can be limited, especially during off-peak hours and weekends. The travel time by bus can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey.

The North Jersey Coast Line train, with stations in nearby towns like Long Branch and Little Silver, offers a more direct route to destinations further north, including hospitals in Red Bank and beyond. However, the train station in Long Branch requires a short bus or taxi ride from Monmouth Beach.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. NJ Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. Train stations are generally ADA-compliant, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the services. However, the walk from the bus stop or train station to a medical facility can still pose a challenge for some patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: The Digital Age Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation to and from medical appointments. In Monmouth Beach, ride-sharing is readily available, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to patients needing assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Monmouth County area. These services can be particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their medical condition.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Monmouth Beach, considering the factors outlined above, is moderately favorable. The proximity to Monmouth Medical Center and the availability of ride-sharing services contribute positively to the score. However, the limited public transit options and the potential for longer drive times to specialized care facilities slightly detract from the overall score.

The score is also influenced by the individual patient's circumstances. A patient who can drive and has access to a personal vehicle will likely experience a higher score than someone reliant on public transit or medical transportation.

**Moving to Monmouth Beach: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Monmouth Beach, the accessibility of healthcare should be a key consideration. While the area offers a generally good level of healthcare access, potential residents should carefully evaluate their specific needs and preferences.

Those with existing prostate cancer or at high risk should consider the following: the proximity to specialized care centers, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with these options.

The overall healthcare landscape in Monmouth Beach is favorable, with a strong emphasis on primary care and access to a variety of specialists. However, prospective residents should conduct thorough research to ensure their specific healthcare needs can be met within the community. The "Prostate Cancer Score," while not a definitive metric, provides a useful framework for evaluating the transportation and healthcare access landscape in Monmouth Beach, making it a valuable tool for those seeking to make an informed decision about their future.