07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.73 percent of residents in 07755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center with a distance of 2.90 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Oakhurst (07755)

The decision to relocate to Oakhurst, New Jersey (ZIP code 07755), presents a compelling lifestyle choice, particularly for those seeking a balance of coastal charm and suburban tranquility. However, for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a paramount concern. This "Asthma Score" write-up provides a detailed assessment of transportation options to healthcare facilities in and around Oakhurst, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care and maintaining optimal asthma management.

Oakhurst, nestled within Monmouth County, offers a relatively convenient location for healthcare access compared to more rural areas. However, transportation challenges can still arise, particularly during peak hours or for individuals with mobility limitations. This analysis considers the primary healthcare providers serving the area, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist offices, and assesses the feasibility of reaching them via various transportation modes.

**Driving Directions: The Road to Relief**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Oakhurst. The primary roadways serving the area include the Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, and Route 35, a busy commercial corridor. Navigating these roads requires careful planning, especially during rush hour, which typically occurs between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

For those seeking emergency care, Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch is a critical destination. From Oakhurst, the drive via Route 35 and Broadway typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. During peak hours, this commute can easily extend to 20-30 minutes. The Garden State Parkway offers a faster route, but traffic congestion at the exits and tolls can add to the travel time.

Urgent care facilities, such as those operated by AFC Urgent Care in nearby towns like Eatontown and Red Bank, offer convenient alternatives for non-life-threatening asthma exacerbations. The drive to AFC Urgent Care in Eatontown via Route 35 and Wyckoff Road typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Red Bank, a vibrant town with a variety of healthcare providers, is accessible via Route 35 and the Cooper Bridge, with a drive time of approximately 20-25 minutes.

Specialist appointments, such as those with pulmonologists or allergists, often require travel to larger medical centers. The drive to specialists in areas like Shrewsbury or Freehold typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The accessibility of these facilities is a crucial factor for individuals considering moving to Oakhurst, as it directly impacts the ability to receive timely and effective asthma care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Oakhurst are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. However, the New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system offers some connectivity. The primary bus routes serving the area are the 830 and 831. These routes connect Oakhurst to neighboring towns and regional hubs, including Long Branch, Asbury Park, and Red Bank.

The 830 bus travels along Route 35, providing access to healthcare facilities and commercial centers. The 831 bus provides connections to the train station in Long Branch. While these bus routes offer a cost-effective alternative to driving, they have limitations. Service frequency can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. Furthermore, travel times can be significantly longer than driving, due to multiple stops and potential traffic delays.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. NJT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, it's advisable to contact NJT in advance to confirm the availability of accessible buses on specific routes and times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an increasingly popular transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing services in Oakhurst is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering door-to-door transportation to and from healthcare appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with limited mobility or those who require assistance with medical equipment. Several medical transport providers operate in the Monmouth County area, including First Transit, and Medical Transportation Management (MTM).

These companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services offer convenience and specialized assistance, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access and the Asthma Score**

The "Asthma Score" for Oakhurst (07755) is influenced by a combination of factors. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of multiple transportation options, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities all contribute to the overall score.

The relatively short drive times to emergency care and urgent care facilities contribute positively to the score. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options further enhances the accessibility of healthcare. However, the limitations of public transit, particularly its infrequent service and longer travel times, detract from the score.

For individuals considering moving to Oakhurst with asthma, a thorough understanding of these transportation options is crucial. Careful planning, including considering traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services, is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach**

The optimal transportation strategy for healthcare access in Oakhurst will vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. For those with reliable access to a personal vehicle, driving remains the most convenient option. For individuals who prefer not to drive or lack access to a vehicle, ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offer viable alternatives. Public transit can be a cost-effective option, but careful planning is necessary to account for potential delays and limited service frequency.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Oakhurst reflects a balance of advantages and disadvantages. While the area offers good access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion require careful consideration. By understanding the available transportation options and planning accordingly, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate healthcare access in Oakhurst and maintain optimal health management. The decision to relocate to Oakhurst, therefore, demands a personalized approach to transportation planning, ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority.