07720, Bradley Beach, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07720, Bradley Beach, New Jersey is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.55 percent of residents in 07720 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jersey Shore University Medical Center with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 07720 – A Commute Analysis

Moving to Bradley Beach, New Jersey, ZIP code 07720, offers the allure of coastal living. However, for individuals managing asthma, proximity to quality healthcare and ease of transportation become paramount considerations. This analysis, an “Asthma Score” write-up, delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare facilities from 07720, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of **transportation** challenges and opportunities, directly impacting **healthcare access** for residents with respiratory conditions.

The “Asthma Score” framework emphasizes the critical link between accessible healthcare and a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively. Factors like travel time, reliability of transportation, and availability of specialized medical services directly affect medication adherence, appointment attendance, and overall well-being. This write-up aims to illuminate these factors, providing prospective residents with the information necessary to make informed decisions about their move.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roads**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, several healthcare facilities are within a reasonable radius of Bradley Beach. The primary arteries for travel are Route 35, a major north-south thoroughfare, and Route 33, connecting to inland areas. Accessing these routes is generally straightforward, with well-maintained roads throughout the area.

Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 35. This drive time can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, especially during peak hours and summer weekends. The Garden State Parkway, while offering a faster route, may involve tolls and can experience heavy congestion.

Other options include Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch, accessible via Route 36, typically a 15-25 minute drive. This route, however, can be subject to traffic, particularly near the Long Branch area. Smaller clinics and specialist offices are scattered throughout the region, often requiring shorter drives but potentially involving navigating local roads and residential areas.

**Public Transit: A Breath of Fresh Air?**

For those reliant on public **transportation**, New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the 07720 area. The primary bus route serving Bradley Beach is the 830, which connects to Asbury Park, Belmar, and other surrounding towns. This route offers connections to train lines at Long Branch, providing access to New York City and other regional destinations.

The 830 bus route has designated stops throughout Bradley Beach, offering convenient access for residents. However, the frequency of service varies, with reduced schedules on weekends and evenings. This can pose challenges for those needing urgent medical attention or regular appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on NJT buses include wheelchair lifts and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these features on all buses cannot be guaranteed, and passengers with specific needs should confirm accessibility before boarding.

The train, while potentially faster for longer distances, requires a transfer from the bus or a ride to the Long Branch station. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the commute, particularly for individuals with asthma who may be sensitive to environmental factors like air quality at the station.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: The Modern Solution?**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the 07720 area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on fixed schedules or navigate traffic.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or emergencies. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase costs, potentially impacting access to care for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as First Transit or Medical Transportation Management (MTM), cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments, providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility.

Medical transport services often require pre-booking and may have eligibility requirements, such as a physician's referral. While offering a valuable service, they may not be readily available for urgent situations or last-minute appointments.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Evaluating the **transportation** options available in 07720 reveals a mixed picture. While driving offers the most flexibility, traffic congestion and parking limitations can pose challenges. Public **transportation** provides an affordable alternative, but its limited frequency and potential for delays can be problematic. Ride-sharing offers convenience, but at a potentially higher cost. Medical transport services provide specialized assistance, but with limitations on availability and eligibility.

The “Asthma Score” for 07720, therefore, would consider the following:

* **Drive Time Variability:** The range of drive times to key healthcare facilities, accounting for peak traffic and seasonal fluctuations.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency and punctuality of NJT bus routes and train connections.
* **Ride-Sharing Accessibility:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The ease of access and eligibility requirements for medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance and accessibility of pharmacies for medication refills.
* **Air Quality Considerations:** The impact of traffic and environmental factors on asthma triggers.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For individuals considering **moving to Bradley Beach**, the “Asthma Score” highlights the importance of carefully evaluating **healthcare access** and **transportation** options. While the area offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, the practicalities of commuting to healthcare facilities must be considered.

Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare providers they intend to use, assessing the feasibility of each **transportation** option based on their individual needs and circumstances. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services is crucial.

Ultimately, the best decision will depend on individual priorities, financial resources, and the severity of their asthma. By carefully weighing these factors, individuals can make an informed choice that supports their health and well-being, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of living in 07720. The goal is to empower individuals with asthma to navigate the **transportation** landscape and ensure they can readily access the healthcare they need, making Bradley Beach a truly welcoming and supportive community.