08742, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 08742, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.65 percent of residents in 08742 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 3.55 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Point Pleasant Beach (ZIP Code 08742)

The salty air and charming boardwalk of Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08742), beckon with the promise of coastal living. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of this seaside haven must be tempered with a critical assessment of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape, offering a comprehensive overview of how residents can reach essential medical care, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities. Considering transportation is key to healthcare access, we examine the various options available for moving to Point Pleasant Beach, with a focus on minimizing travel time and maximizing convenience.

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in this area. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides quick access to healthcare facilities located further inland. The Parkway's exits near Point Pleasant Beach, such as Exit 98, offer convenient access to local roads. Route 35, running parallel to the coastline, is another crucial thoroughfare, connecting the borough to neighboring towns and medical providers. Traffic congestion, especially during peak seasons, can significantly impact drive times.

Journey times to healthcare providers fluctuate depending on the destination and the time of day. For instance, a trip to Ocean Medical Center in Brick Township, a comprehensive hospital, via the Parkway, can take approximately 15-25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during summer weekends or rush hour, this commute could easily extend to 40 minutes or more. Local urgent care facilities, such as those in Point Pleasant Borough, are generally accessible within a 5-10 minute drive.

Public transportation, while available, presents a less direct route. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the area. The 317 route, for example, connects Point Pleasant Beach to Toms River and other key destinations, including some healthcare facilities. The frequency of these buses varies, and the travel time can be considerably longer than driving, often requiring transfers.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids, is a crucial factor. NJT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as ramps and priority seating. However, the availability of these features and the overall accessibility of bus stops can vary. Planning a public transit journey requires careful consideration of these factors.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another option for transportation. These services provide door-to-door convenience and can be particularly useful for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Availability, however, can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. Surge pricing during peak times can also significantly increase the cost of these rides.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies such as Liberty Medical Transportation and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and can be a reliable option for individuals who need assistance with mobility or require specialized transport.

The location of healthcare facilities relative to Point Pleasant Beach is a significant determinant of accessibility. While local urgent care centers offer immediate care, more specialized services, such as pulmonology specialists or comprehensive respiratory care, may necessitate travel to hospitals or medical centers located further away. The distance to these facilities and the transportation options available must be carefully considered.

For individuals with asthma, proximity to emergency care is paramount. The ability to quickly access an emergency room in case of an asthma exacerbation can be life-saving. Assessing the drive time to the nearest emergency room and understanding the available transportation options is a crucial aspect of evaluating the Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for Point Pleasant Beach reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare, the reliance on roads susceptible to traffic congestion presents a challenge. Public transportation, though available, may not be the most convenient or efficient option. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternatives, but their availability and cost can vary.

When considering moving to Point Pleasant Beach, individuals with asthma should thoroughly research the location of healthcare providers, the drive times to these facilities, and the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services. This comprehensive assessment will allow them to make an informed decision and ensure they have reliable access to the medical care they need.

The weather in Point Pleasant Beach, with its high humidity and potential for seasonal allergens, can also impact asthma management. Proximity to healthcare providers and ease of access to emergency care are therefore critical considerations.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for Point Pleasant Beach is not a simple numerical value but rather a nuanced assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. It requires careful consideration of individual needs, preferences, and the specific healthcare requirements of each person with asthma. By understanding the intricacies of the transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they can thrive in this coastal community.