08752, Seaside Park, New Jersey Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 08752, Seaside Park, New Jersey is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.15 percent of residents in 08752 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 11.22 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Seaside Park (ZIP Code 08752)

Relocating to the charming seaside town of Seaside Park (ZIP code 08752) presents a unique set of considerations, particularly for individuals managing asthma. While the allure of ocean breezes and a relaxed lifestyle is undeniable, assessing healthcare access, specifically the ease of commute to medical facilities, is paramount. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their potential impact on individuals seeking healthcare within and beyond the borough.

The core of the "Asthma Score" lies in evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities. This involves scrutinizing the available transportation options, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. The aim is to paint a comprehensive picture, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Seaside Park's location on the Barnegat Peninsula, while offering stunning views, presents certain transportation challenges. The primary access routes are the Garden State Parkway (GSP) and Route 37. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Congestion can exacerbate asthma symptoms, making a quick and reliable commute essential.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the drive to the nearest major healthcare provider, Community Medical Center in Toms River, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The journey involves navigating Route 37 West, which can become heavily congested, particularly during the summer months. Alternatively, one could utilize the GSP to Route 37, though this adds to the overall travel time and potential exposure to vehicle emissions.

Beyond Community Medical Center, other healthcare options exist, though they often involve longer drive times. Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch is a viable option, but the commute, primarily via the GSP, can extend to an hour or more, depending on traffic. This extended travel time can be a significant concern for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Public transportation options in Seaside Park are limited. The Ocean County Transportation (OCT) provides bus services within the county, but routes and schedules are often infrequent, making them less practical for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the OCT buses may not always offer the most direct routes to healthcare facilities, potentially requiring multiple transfers and extending travel times.

Specific OCT routes serving Seaside Park are minimal. Route 559 provides limited service, but its frequency and coverage are not ideal for regular medical appointments. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on OCT buses are available, including ramps and designated seating, which are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing respiratory distress. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for crowded buses can pose challenges for asthma sufferers.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a more flexible transportation option than public transit. However, surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can significantly increase costs. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be unpredictable, particularly during inclement weather or periods of high demand.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are critical for individuals requiring immediate medical attention or those unable to drive themselves. Several ambulance services operate in the area, providing emergency response capabilities. However, non-emergency medical transport options may be limited, and availability can vary depending on the provider and the patient's insurance coverage.

Several medical transport brands serve the region, including Atlantic Ambulance and MONOC (Mobile Onsite Nursing and Outreach Center). These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, but it's crucial to investigate their service area, coverage, and associated costs.

The "Asthma Score" also considers the environmental factors that can trigger asthma symptoms. Seaside Park's proximity to the ocean offers fresh air, which can be beneficial. However, the presence of allergens, such as pollen and mold, can also be a concern. Additionally, exposure to air pollution from vehicles, particularly during traffic congestion, can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Moving to Seaside Park, therefore, demands a proactive approach to healthcare access. Prospective residents with asthma should thoroughly research the available transportation options, considering their individual needs and preferences. This includes assessing drive times, public transit schedules, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

Furthermore, individuals should establish a relationship with a local healthcare provider, preferably a pulmonologist or allergist, to develop a personalized asthma action plan. This plan should outline strategies for managing asthma symptoms, including medication schedules, emergency protocols, and environmental control measures.

The "Asthma Score" for Seaside Park, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the location offers appealing lifestyle benefits, transportation limitations and potential environmental triggers necessitate careful planning. The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the need for proactive management of asthma triggers.

Ultimately, the success of managing asthma in Seaside Park hinges on a combination of factors. These include a well-defined asthma action plan, a strong relationship with a healthcare provider, a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape, and a commitment to minimizing exposure to environmental triggers. By proactively addressing these factors, individuals with asthma can enjoy the benefits of living in this coastal community while effectively managing their health.