08050, Manahawkin, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 08050, Manahawkin, New Jersey is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.89 percent of residents in 08050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 25.56 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Manahawkin (08050)

The decision to relocate, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough evaluation of healthcare access. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of Manahawkin, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08050), focusing on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. It aims to provide a clear picture for prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Manahawkin and prioritizing convenient healthcare access.

Manahawkin, a charming coastal community, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals with asthma who may experience exacerbations requiring rapid medical attention. Therefore, understanding drive times to healthcare facilities becomes paramount.

The most direct route to healthcare from Manahawkin often involves navigating the Garden State Parkway (GSP). Driving south on the GSP offers access to Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin itself. During peak hours, the GSP can experience heavy congestion, potentially extending the commute. Non-peak hours, however, allow for a relatively swift journey.

Alternatively, heading north on the GSP provides access to hospitals in Toms River, such as Community Medical Center. This route, while offering more hospital options, adds distance and the potential for delays, particularly during summer months when traffic volume increases due to tourism. The GSP's toll system also needs consideration, as it adds to the overall cost of transportation.

Local roads like Route 72, a major east-west artery, connect Manahawkin to surrounding areas. Route 72 offers access to local medical practices and urgent care facilities. However, Route 72 can also become congested, especially during rush hour and weekends, impacting the speed of healthcare access. Understanding these traffic patterns is crucial for planning medical appointments and responding to asthma emergencies.

Public transportation options in Manahawkin are limited. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve local areas. The primary bus route serving Manahawkin is the 559 bus, connecting to Atlantic City. This route doesn't directly serve hospitals. Access to healthcare via public transit requires careful planning and potentially multiple transfers, making it less ideal for individuals with asthma who may need immediate medical attention.

The 559 bus, while not directly serving hospitals, offers some ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features. All NJT buses are required to be accessible, featuring ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and potential for long travel times may still pose challenges for individuals with asthma, particularly during an exacerbation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Manahawkin. These services offer a more flexible transportation option compared to public transit, particularly for accessing medical appointments. However, ride-sharing availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, impacting healthcare access for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers, play a crucial role in healthcare access for individuals with asthma. Ambulance services provide emergency medical care and transportation to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical transport services cater to individuals requiring transportation to medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related needs.

Several medical transport providers operate in the Manahawkin area. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. Understanding the availability and coverage of these services is essential for individuals with asthma who may require regular medical appointments or need assistance with transportation.

The "Asthma Score" for Manahawkin reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some flexibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The commute times to healthcare facilities, particularly during peak hours, must be carefully considered.

For individuals moving to Manahawkin with asthma, a comprehensive plan is vital. This plan should include identifying the nearest healthcare facilities, understanding the potential commute times during different times of the day, and exploring all transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

Furthermore, prospective residents should research the availability of asthma specialists and pulmonologists in the area. Proximity to these specialists is crucial for managing asthma effectively.

The decision to relocate to Manahawkin necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. The "Asthma Score" assessment provides a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on individuals with asthma. By carefully considering the factors outlined, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure they have access to the healthcare they need. Moving to Manahawkin requires a proactive approach to healthcare access, prioritizing a well-defined transportation strategy.