07732, Highlands, New Jersey Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 07732, Highlands, New Jersey is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.86 percent of residents in 07732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 5.21 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highlands, NJ (ZIP Code 07732)

The salt-laced air of Highlands, New Jersey, a charming borough nestled along the Sandy Hook Bay, offers a picturesque setting for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. But for individuals managing arthritis, the beauty of this location must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 07732, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for those with mobility limitations. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all critical factors impacting healthcare access.

The primary concern for anyone with arthritis is the ability to reach medical appointments. The pain, stiffness, and fatigue associated with the condition can make even short journeys daunting. Therefore, understanding the transportation infrastructure is crucial. For residents of Highlands, this means evaluating the accessibility of various healthcare facilities, including rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management specialists.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in Highlands. The borough is directly accessible via the **NJ Route 36**, a major thoroughfare that connects the area to the Garden State Parkway and other key roadways. Heading north on Route 36, you'll quickly reach the Sea Bright Bridge, offering access to areas like Rumson and Little Silver. Southbound, Route 36 leads towards Atlantic Highlands and eventually connects to the Garden State Parkway.

The drive time to healthcare facilities varies. Monmouth Medical Center, a large hospital in Long Branch, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 36 and the Parkway. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours. Another option, Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, is about a 25-35 minute drive, also requiring navigating Route 36 and other local roads. The drive to specialists in Middletown or Shrewsbury can take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

For those without a personal vehicle or unable to drive, public transportation offers an alternative. The **NJ Transit** system provides bus service to and from Highlands. The **Route 834** bus connects Highlands to Red Bank, offering a link to the NJ Transit train line. This train provides access to New York City and other areas in Monmouth County. However, bus service frequency can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

Accessibility is a critical consideration. NJ Transit buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with mobility impairments. The Red Bank train station is also equipped with elevators and accessible platforms. However, the walk from the bus stop or train station to a healthcare provider can still be a challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Highlands area. These services can provide a convenient door-to-door transportation option, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to use public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, and the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, may vary.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for individuals with disabilities. **CareRide** and **LogistiCare** are two medical transportation providers that operate in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking, and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, these services typically require prior scheduling and may have limitations on the distance they serve.

For individuals considering moving to Highlands, the proximity of healthcare facilities should be a priority. While the borough offers a tranquil environment, the drive times to specialized medical care can be significant. The availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options can mitigate some of the challenges.

The terrain in Highlands is relatively flat, which makes walking within the borough easier than some other areas. However, sidewalks may not be consistently maintained, and some areas lack sidewalks altogether. This can be a significant obstacle for individuals with arthritis who rely on assistive devices.

The location of pharmacies is another factor. Several pharmacies are located within a short drive of Highlands. These pharmacies offer prescription services and over-the-counter medications, providing convenient access to necessary medications.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for Highlands, NJ (07732) is moderate. While the borough offers a pleasant living environment, healthcare access requires careful planning. The drive times to specialized medical care are reasonable, but traffic can be a factor. Public transportation options are available but may be limited. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional support.

Individuals with arthritis who are considering moving to Highlands should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare providers and considering the availability of alternative transportation options is essential.

The decision to move to Highlands should be informed by a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The beauty of the location should be balanced with the practicalities of managing a chronic condition.

Ultimately, the success of living in Highlands with arthritis depends on proactive planning and utilizing available resources. This includes understanding the drive times, exploring public transit options, and utilizing ride-sharing or medical transportation services when necessary.