07703, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07703, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 07703 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 2.92 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 07703

The quest for optimal healthcare access, especially for those managing asthma, is a critical factor when considering a move, particularly in a new locale like ZIP code 07703. This area, encompassing portions of Eatontown, Oceanport, and Tinton Falls, offers a unique blend of suburban living and proximity to the Jersey Shore. Understanding the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access is paramount for residents, especially those with respiratory conditions. This 'Asthma Score' write-up delves into the complexities of navigating transportation to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options within and around 07703.

The cornerstone of transportation in 07703 is the automobile. The area is conveniently situated near major roadways, providing relatively easy access to healthcare providers. Driving to healthcare appointments is often the most direct route, offering the greatest control over travel time and minimizing exposure to environmental triggers.

For residents in the northern part of 07703, access to healthcare facilities in Long Branch and Red Bank is facilitated by the Garden State Parkway. The Parkway, a major north-south artery, allows for a quick commute to hospitals and specialist offices. The drive to Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, for example, could take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, for those in the southern reaches of 07703, Route 36 and Route 35 provide direct access to healthcare facilities in Eatontown and Shrewsbury. Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, located in Long Branch, is also easily accessible via these routes. These roads, however, can experience heavier traffic, particularly during peak hours, potentially adding to the commute time and increasing stress levels, which can trigger asthma symptoms.

The presence of these major roadways, coupled with the relative absence of significant congestion outside of rush hour, generally contributes to a favorable 'Asthma Score' for those who prefer to drive. However, it is essential to consider the potential for traffic delays, especially during inclement weather or holiday periods.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those who prefer not to drive or do not have access to a vehicle. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the 07703 area, though the routes and frequency might not always align perfectly with healthcare appointment schedules.

The primary bus route serving the area is the 830, which runs along Route 35 and Route 36, connecting to Long Branch, Red Bank, and other key destinations. This route provides access to various healthcare facilities, including Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus and other medical offices. The 830 also connects to the NJ Transit train lines, offering further transportation options.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. NJT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of the 830 route, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limitation. Waiting times at bus stops, particularly during periods of extreme weather, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The 'Asthma Score' is somewhat diminished by the limitations of public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular for transportation. They offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for those who need door-to-door service. Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma, as it allows them to control their environment and minimize exposure to potential triggers.

The availability of ride-sharing services in 07703 is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments. Moreover, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be affected by factors such as driver availability and surge pricing, which could impact the 'Asthma Score' negatively.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those with asthma. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the 07703 area, including Liberty Medical Transportation and MedTrans.

Medical transport services are particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their medical condition. However, these services often require prior arrangements and can be more expensive than other transportation options. The 'Asthma Score' is enhanced by the availability of medical transport, but the cost and scheduling requirements must be considered.

The decision to move to Fort Monmouth, a significant redevelopment project located within the 07703 area, adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation. The influx of new residents and businesses could potentially increase traffic congestion, impacting drive times to healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the development of new residential areas and commercial spaces could influence the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services.

The redevelopment of Fort Monmouth also presents an opportunity to enhance healthcare access. The potential for new medical facilities and the expansion of existing services could improve the 'Asthma Score' for residents. However, the long-term impact of the redevelopment on transportation infrastructure and healthcare access remains to be seen.

In conclusion, the 'Asthma Score' for healthcare access in 07703 is relatively favorable, primarily due to the proximity to major roadways and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport must be considered.

For individuals with asthma, careful planning and consideration of transportation options are essential. Prioritizing direct routes, utilizing ride-sharing or medical transport when necessary, and being prepared for potential delays can help mitigate the challenges of navigating transportation to healthcare appointments. The ongoing redevelopment of Fort Monmouth offers both challenges and opportunities for enhancing healthcare access in the future. The overall 'Asthma Score' is a dynamic measure, influenced by individual needs, transportation choices, and the evolving landscape of healthcare access in 07703.