07734, Keansburg, New Jersey Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 07734, Keansburg, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.53 percent of residents in 07734 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 3.98 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Keansburg, NJ (ZIP Code 07734)

Considering a move to Keansburg, New Jersey, and managing arthritis? Assessing healthcare access is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" evaluates transportation options, crucial for consistent medical appointments and symptom management. We'll examine commute times, public transit, and alternative transport, providing a comprehensive picture for those seeking optimal healthcare access. This analysis focuses on the practical realities of navigating the area, offering insights beyond mere statistics.

Keansburg, nestled on the Raritan Bay, presents unique transportation challenges and opportunities. The town's relative isolation, coupled with its aging population, necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare accessibility. This score weighs the ease of reaching medical facilities, considering the specific needs of individuals with arthritis. The goal is to empower informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare remains readily available, minimizing travel-related stress and maximizing quality of life.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Keansburg. The primary artery is Route 36, a major thoroughfare connecting Keansburg to surrounding towns and cities. Travel times can vary significantly depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours. Reaching Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, a major regional hospital, requires navigating Route 36, often followed by the Garden State Parkway. Expect a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The Garden State Parkway, a toll road, offers a faster route south, but can become congested during rush hour and weekends. Route 35, accessible via Route 36, provides another option, though it often experiences heavy traffic. Smaller local roads, like Main Street and Beachway, offer alternative routes, but are generally slower and less direct. These roads may be preferable to avoid traffic, especially for those with limited mobility or pain.

For those seeking specialized care or facilities outside the immediate area, the New Jersey Turnpike is accessible via the Garden State Parkway. This opens up access to hospitals and specialists in North Jersey and Philadelphia, although these trips involve significantly longer travel times. The overall driving experience in Keansburg is manageable, but requires careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns, especially for those with arthritis.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its limitations must be acknowledged. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service in Keansburg. The 817 bus route serves the area, connecting Keansburg to Keyport and other towns along the Bayshore. This route can provide access to local medical offices and pharmacies. However, bus frequency may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends.

The 817 route does not directly connect to major hospitals like Monmouth Medical Center. Transfers to other bus routes or train lines would be necessary, adding time and complexity to the journey. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial. NJ Transit generally offers accessible buses on its routes, but it is essential to confirm availability and schedule in advance, especially for those with mobility limitations.

The nearest train station is in Hazlet, requiring a bus ride or a short drive. The train provides access to New York City and other destinations, but is not a direct route to most local healthcare facilities. Public transit, while available, may not be the most convenient option for frequent medical appointments, especially for individuals with arthritis.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Keansburg. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for short trips or when driving is not feasible. However, availability can vary, and surge pricing may apply during peak hours or periods of high demand.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like MedTrans and Liberty Medical Transportation, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and providing a comfortable and safe ride. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or those who require assistance. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The availability of these alternative transport options enhances healthcare access in Keansburg. They provide crucial support for those who cannot drive or are unable to use public transit. However, the cost and availability of these services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The "Arthritis Score" considers all these factors. While Keansburg offers a range of transportation options, each presents its own challenges. Driving, while convenient, is subject to traffic. Public transit, while accessible, requires careful planning and may involve transfers. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable alternatives, but come with associated costs.

For individuals with arthritis, the ideal scenario involves easy access to healthcare. This means minimizing travel time, reducing physical strain, and ensuring reliable transportation. The score weighs the practicality of each mode, factoring in the specific needs of those with arthritis.

Moving to Keansburg requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the town offers a sense of community and affordability, its relative isolation and transportation limitations must be acknowledged. The "Arthritis Score" aims to provide a realistic assessment, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This involves weighing the pros and cons of each transportation option, and prioritizing those that best meet their individual requirements.

The proximity of medical facilities, the availability of specialized care, and the ease of transportation all play a critical role in managing arthritis. This analysis provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare access in Keansburg, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions and plan for their future healthcare needs.