07753, Neptune, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07753, Neptune, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.81 percent of residents in 07753 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jersey Shore University Medical Center with a distance of 1.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Neptune, NJ (ZIP Code 07753)

The salty air whispers secrets along the Jersey Shore, but for residents of Neptune, NJ (ZIP Code 07753), the promise of ocean breezes can be a double-edged sword. Proximity to the Atlantic brings potential asthma triggers – pollen, mold, and, of course, the ubiquitous ocean mist. Coupled with the challenges of *transportation* to *healthcare access*, managing asthma in this coastal community demands careful consideration. This 'Asthma Score' write-up delves into the complexities of getting to medical appointments, focusing on the practical realities faced by residents, particularly those considering *moving to Neptune*.

The primary determinant of an asthma score is the ease with which a resident can reach their pulmonologist, allergist, or primary care physician. In Neptune, the options are diverse, but each presents its own set of challenges. The most common mode of *transportation* is, predictably, the personal vehicle. Driving offers the greatest flexibility, allowing residents to dictate their schedules and bypass potential delays. However, this convenience comes with a price.

The Garden State Parkway, a major artery for the region, is often congested, particularly during peak hours and summer weekends. A trip to a specialist in Red Bank, for example, could involve navigating the Parkway's southbound lanes, a drive that might typically take 20 minutes but can easily stretch to 45 minutes or more during rush hour. Route 35, another crucial thoroughfare, presents its own hazards. Heavily trafficked and dotted with traffic lights, Route 35 can become a source of frustration, and the stop-and-go nature of the traffic can exacerbate asthma symptoms for some.

For those without a personal vehicle, public *transportation* offers an alternative, albeit a less convenient one. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service throughout Monmouth County. Several routes serve Neptune, including the 830, which connects to Asbury Park and Long Branch, and the 831, which travels north and south along Route 35. However, bus schedules can be infrequent, especially during off-peak hours, and the potential for delays is ever-present.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public *transportation* for individuals with asthma is a critical consideration. While NJT buses are mandated to be ADA-accessible, meaning they have ramps or lifts for passengers with mobility impairments, the reality can be more complicated. Limited seating, the potential for overcrowding, and the exposure to various environmental triggers within the bus environment – perfumes, cleaning agents, and the presence of other passengers with colds or allergies – can pose challenges for individuals with sensitive airways.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public *transportation*. These services provide on-demand rides, allowing residents to schedule appointments and travel without relying on fixed bus schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The unpredictable nature of surge pricing can further complicate budgeting for *healthcare access*.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, represent another option. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) offer non-emergency medical *transportation*, often providing door-to-door service. These services are typically covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option for some. However, availability can be limited, and scheduling requires advance planning.

The distance to *healthcare access* centers is another factor influencing the asthma score. Neptune is relatively well-served by medical facilities. Jersey Shore University Medical Center, a major hospital, is located in nearby Neptune Township, offering a wide range of specialists and emergency services. Numerous private practices, including pulmonologists and allergists, are also located in the surrounding towns of Red Bank, Long Branch, and Shrewsbury.

However, the concentration of *healthcare access* in these neighboring towns necessitates travel, adding to the commute time and potential exposure to environmental triggers. Even a short drive can be a challenge for someone experiencing an asthma flare-up. The stress of navigating traffic, coupled with the physical exertion of driving, can worsen symptoms.

The availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within Neptune also contributes to the asthma score. Having convenient access to medication refills and immediate medical attention is crucial for managing asthma. Several pharmacies are located within the ZIP code, providing easy access to prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. Urgent care centers are also available, offering immediate care for asthma exacerbations.

The overall asthma score for Neptune, NJ (ZIP Code 07753) is moderate. While the community offers a reasonable level of *healthcare access*, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public *transportation* present challenges. The potential for traffic congestion on major roadways, the cost of ride-sharing, and the need for advance planning for medical *transportation* services all contribute to the complexity of commuting to medical appointments.

For individuals considering *moving to Neptune* with asthma, a thorough assessment of *transportation* needs is essential. Understanding the potential commute times to medical providers, evaluating the accessibility of public *transportation*, and budgeting for ride-sharing or medical *transportation* services are all critical considerations. The proximity of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within the community is a positive factor, but the overall score underscores the need for careful planning and proactive management to ensure effective *healthcare access*. The ocean breezes may be alluring, but the practical realities of *transportation* and *healthcare access* must be factored into the decision-making process for anyone with asthma in Neptune.