08723, Brick, New Jersey Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 08723, Brick, New Jersey is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.79 percent of residents in 08723 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 2.87 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08723

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires proactive planning, especially concerning healthcare access. This assessment focuses on the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 08723 (Brick, New Jersey), aiming to provide a practical "Alzheimer's Score" based on the ease and reliability of reaching medical facilities. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, all critical components for individuals and families managing the challenges of this disease. The goal is to empower informed decisions about healthcare access, particularly for those considering moving to Brick.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Brick, and the surrounding areas, is the automobile. Driving is the most prevalent mode of transportation, particularly for those with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments. From the heart of Brick, accessing major healthcare providers necessitates understanding the local road network. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides swift access to facilities in Toms River (Community Medical Center) and further north towards Monmouth County. However, peak traffic hours, particularly during summer weekends, can significantly inflate drive times.

Navigating the Parkway requires careful attention. Exits are frequent, and merging onto and off the highway demands quick decision-making, a challenge for those with cognitive decline. Route 70, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers another route to healthcare, connecting Brick to various medical offices and facilities. Traffic on Route 70 can be heavy, especially near intersections and shopping centers, demanding constant vigilance. Route 88, running parallel to Route 70, provides an alternative, albeit often slower, route to the same destinations. Local roads, such as Chambers Bridge Road and Brick Boulevard, offer access to local doctors' offices and pharmacies, but these routes can be congested during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Drive times to key healthcare facilities from a central Brick location (e.g., near the Brick Township Municipal Building) vary. Community Medical Center in Toms River is typically a 15-20 minute drive via the Parkway or Route 70, assuming moderate traffic. Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch requires a 30-45 minute drive via the Parkway, again, traffic dependent. Smaller, local practices and urgent care facilities within Brick offer shorter drive times, often under 10 minutes. These shorter distances are crucial for routine appointments and urgent needs.

Public transportation presents another facet of the transportation puzzle. Ocean Ride, the county's public transit system, operates routes within Brick and to neighboring towns. Route 559 connects Brick to Toms River and other areas, offering a potential link to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these buses can be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings. Accessibility is a critical consideration. Ocean Ride buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the complexity of navigating bus routes, schedules, and transfers can be overwhelming for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The reliance on fixed routes and schedules can create significant challenges. Waiting at bus stops, navigating crowded buses, and managing transfers require a high degree of cognitive function and independence, often compromised in individuals with Alzheimer's. The limited service areas and infrequent schedules further restrict healthcare access for those relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in Brick, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. The convenience of door-to-door service is a significant advantage, especially for individuals with mobility issues. However, ride-sharing relies on smartphone technology and the ability to communicate with drivers, which can be challenging for those with cognitive impairments.

Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours can further inflate costs, impacting the financial burden on families managing Alzheimer's. The reliability of ride-sharing services can also be a concern, as availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer specialized transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical requirements. Several medical transport providers operate in the Brick area, including Liberty Medical Transportation and Reliable Medical Transport. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assistance with medical equipment, and trained staff to provide support during transport.

The cost of medical transport services is generally higher than ride-sharing or public transit. However, the specialized care and support offered can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's. Scheduling appointments and coordinating transportation can be handled by the medical transport provider, easing the burden on caregivers.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation and healthcare access in 08723 is complex. While the area boasts a relatively accessible road network, the reliance on driving presents challenges for individuals with cognitive decline. Public transit offers limited options, and ride-sharing depends on technological proficiency and financial resources. Medical transport services provide specialized care but come with a higher price tag.

For families considering moving to Brick, or for those already residing in the area, careful consideration of transportation options is paramount. Proximity to healthcare facilities, ease of access to transportation services, and the availability of caregiver support are crucial factors. A proactive approach, including pre-planning transportation for medical appointments, exploring available resources, and building a support network, is essential for ensuring healthcare access and maintaining quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's. The best approach is a multi-faceted one, combining the convenience of driving when possible, the flexibility of ride-sharing when appropriate, and the specialized care of medical transport when necessary.