07760, Rumson, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 07760, Rumson, New Jersey is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.85 percent of residents in 07760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center with a distance of 5.60 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rumson, NJ (ZIP Code 07760)

Moving to the picturesque waterfront community of Rumson, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07760), promises a life of serene beauty and close-knit community. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting necessitates a critical examination of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the nuances of transportation options, evaluating their impact on healthcare access, and providing a comprehensive overview for residents and prospective newcomers. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a vivid picture of navigating healthcare within this charming locale.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is the timely and efficient access to medical care, particularly during an asthma exacerbation. This involves considering the distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation, and the potential for delays. The Asthma Score aims to quantify these factors, offering insights into the practical realities of healthcare access in Rumson.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

Rumson's location, nestled between the Shrewsbury River and the Atlantic Ocean, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the roadways. Driving is often the most direct and flexible method of transportation, but it's essential to consider peak traffic times and potential road closures.

The primary route to major healthcare facilities is via **Route 36**, a major east-west thoroughfare that connects Rumson to neighboring towns and cities. During rush hour, traffic on Route 36 can become congested, especially near the intersections with **Rumson Road** and **River Road**. Traveling east towards Long Branch and Monmouth Medical Center, a crucial healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **River Road**, a scenic route that winds along the Shrewsbury River. This road offers a less congested alternative, particularly during off-peak hours. However, it can be a slower route due to its winding nature and numerous stop signs.

For destinations further afield, such as hospitals in Red Bank or Freehold, residents can utilize the **Garden State Parkway**. This toll road provides a faster route, but it's subject to tolls and can also experience heavy traffic during peak hours. The Parkway offers a direct route, but unexpected delays can occur.

The drive time to Monmouth Medical Center, the closest major hospital, is a critical factor. During non-peak hours, the drive can be completed in approximately 20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this time can easily double. This highlights the importance of planning and considering traffic conditions when scheduling appointments or seeking emergency care.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Viable Option**

Public transportation in Rumson is limited but offers an alternative for those who prefer not to drive or who may not have access to a vehicle. The **New Jersey Transit (NJT)** provides bus service in the area.

The **Route 834** bus serves Rumson, connecting the town to Red Bank and other surrounding communities. This route offers a connection to the train station in Red Bank, which provides access to the North Jersey Coast Line, offering service to New York City.

While the bus service provides a valuable option, it's essential to acknowledge its limitations. The frequency of bus service can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can pose challenges for individuals with asthma who may require urgent medical attention.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transportation is a crucial consideration. NJT buses are required to be ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit may vary depending on the specific location within Rumson.

The train, accessible via the Route 834 bus, offers a more reliable and potentially faster option for accessing healthcare facilities further afield. The North Jersey Coast Line provides service to hospitals in New York City, but this option involves a longer travel time and requires careful planning.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in Rumson, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities.

Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for individuals who are unable to drive or who need transportation at odd hours. However, it's important to consider the cost of these services, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services offer a range of options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel.

Several medical transport providers operate in the Rumson area, including **CareRide** and **First Transit**. These services offer a valuable option for individuals who require specialized assistance or who need to be transported to medical appointments.

The availability and cost of medical transport services should be carefully considered, especially for individuals with severe asthma or other medical conditions.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Asthma Score" for Rumson (07760) is not a single numerical value but a holistic assessment of healthcare access based on the factors discussed above. It considers the following:

* **Drive Times:** The proximity to healthcare facilities, including Monmouth Medical Center, and the impact of traffic on drive times.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of NJT bus service and the North Jersey Coast Line.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability, cost, and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and specialized services offered by medical transport providers.

**Moving to Rumson with Asthma: Informed Decision-Making**

For individuals considering moving to Rumson with asthma, the "Asthma Score" provides valuable insights. It underscores the importance of:

* **Choosing a residence with convenient access to major roadways.**
* **Being aware of peak traffic times and planning travel accordingly.**
* **Familiarizing oneself with public transit options, including bus routes and train schedules.**
* **Exploring ride-sharing and medical transport services.**
* **Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider and understanding their emergency protocols.**

Rumson offers a desirable lifestyle, but careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access is crucial for individuals managing asthma. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, residents can ensure timely and efficient access to medical care, promoting a healthy and fulfilling life in this beautiful community. The commitment to healthcare access is a critical factor in the overall quality of life in Rumson, a town that values its residents' well-being.