08701, Lakewood, New Jersey Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 08701, Lakewood, New Jersey is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.48 percent of residents in 08701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 0.36 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lakewood, NJ (ZIP Code 08701)

Considering a move to Lakewood, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08701)? Beyond the allure of affordability and community, a crucial factor in your decision-making should be healthcare access, particularly if you’re a man over 50. Prostate cancer, a significant health concern, necessitates regular screenings, timely diagnosis, and effective treatment. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lakewood, evaluating the ease of accessing prostate cancer healthcare within the area, considering transportation options.

Lakewood, nestled in Ocean County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The town's layout, combined with its growing population, influences how residents access medical care. Our assessment considers the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources available to residents seeking prostate cancer care.

**The Score:** The Prostate Cancer Score for Lakewood, NJ (08701) is a composite metric reflecting the accessibility of prostate cancer healthcare. It considers the proximity of medical facilities offering prostate cancer services, the efficiency of various transportation modes, and the availability of support services. A higher score indicates better healthcare access. This score is dynamic, influenced by factors like traffic, service availability, and evolving healthcare infrastructure.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Lakewood. The accessibility of prostate cancer specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities is heavily influenced by the road network. Major arteries like the Garden State Parkway (GSP) and Route 9 are vital for reaching healthcare providers.

From central Lakewood, reaching specialists in Toms River, a neighboring town, typically involves a drive of 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic on Route 9 or the GSP. The GSP offers a faster, albeit toll-based, route. Heading south on Route 9 leads to Community Medical Center in Toms River, which offers comprehensive urology and oncology services.

Venturing north on Route 9, you can reach facilities in Howell and Freehold, such as CentraState Medical Center, offering advanced prostate cancer treatment options. This journey, depending on traffic, could take 30-45 minutes. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, significantly impacts drive times, potentially delaying access to critical care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network:**

Public transportation, while available, presents challenges. New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes serving Lakewood and surrounding areas. The 317 bus route connects Lakewood to Toms River, providing a potentially viable option for those without personal vehicles. However, bus travel times are considerably longer than driving, often taking upwards of an hour to reach Toms River.

The 319 route, connecting Lakewood to Philadelphia, might be an option for accessing specialized care in the city, but the travel time, including transfers, is substantial. The frequency of these routes, especially on weekends and evenings, can be limited.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. NJT buses are equipped with accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system for individuals with mobility limitations can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Lakewood, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, offer a dedicated solution for patients requiring assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access: The Key to the Score:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities specializing in prostate cancer care significantly influences the Prostate Cancer Score. Lakewood residents have access to several options within a reasonable driving distance. Community Medical Center in Toms River, CentraState Medical Center in Freehold, and other facilities in the surrounding areas offer a range of services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care.

The availability of specialized urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists is a critical factor. The presence of advanced treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, also contributes to the score.

**Factors Impacting the Score:**

Several factors can impact the Prostate Cancer Score. Traffic congestion on Route 9 and the GSP can increase drive times, potentially delaying access to care. The availability and frequency of public transit routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can also affect accessibility. The cost of transportation, including fuel, tolls, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services, can be a barrier for some residents.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, can enhance the healthcare experience. These services can help patients navigate the healthcare system, understand their diagnosis and treatment options, and connect with other patients.

**Moving to Lakewood and Your Health:**

If you are considering moving to Lakewood, carefully evaluate your healthcare needs. Assess the transportation options available to you and consider the potential impact of traffic and travel times on your ability to access care. Research the healthcare facilities in the area, including the specialists and treatment options available.

The Prostate Cancer Score is a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in Lakewood. It provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility of prostate cancer care and making informed decisions about your healthcare needs.

**The Verdict:**

Lakewood, NJ (08701) offers a moderate Prostate Cancer Score. While the town provides access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Traffic congestion and the cost of transportation can also be factors. However, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options. The score can be improved by advocating for enhanced public transit, promoting better traffic management, and supporting the development of comprehensive healthcare services within the community. Choosing to move to Lakewood requires understanding the nuances of its transportation and healthcare access.