07718, Belford, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 07718, Belford, New Jersey is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.80 percent of residents in 07718 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 4.84 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Belford, NJ (ZIP Code 07718)

Belford, New Jersey, a charming community nestled along the Raritan Bay, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling New York City metropolitan area. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of access to crucial healthcare services, including regular check-ups and medication refills, becomes a paramount concern. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 07718, provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessing the accessibility of healthcare, specifically considering the challenges of transportation.

The “Hypertension Score” is a multi-faceted assessment, evaluating the time and effort required to reach essential healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and emergency services. It considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services. The score aims to empower potential and current residents with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare management.

The primary challenge in Belford, like many suburban areas, is its reliance on personal vehicles. The major arteries facilitating transportation within and beyond the community are crucial. The Garden State Parkway, a north-south thoroughfare, provides a direct route to hospitals and specialist offices in Monmouth County, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. The commute to healthcare facilities, therefore, is heavily dependent on the ebb and flow of traffic.

Route 36, a vital east-west artery, connects Belford to key commercial centers and medical facilities. Navigating this road, particularly during rush hour, presents another hurdle. The ability to quickly reach a healthcare provider in an emergency is paramount. The strategic location of healthcare facilities along these major roadways is a positive factor, however, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a significant barrier for individuals who are unable to drive or who lack access to a car.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the area. The 67 bus route, for example, traverses through Belford, offering connections to key destinations, including Middletown, and eventually, to transportation hubs with access to medical facilities. However, the frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a deterrent.

Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. NJT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. Yet, the physical distance between bus stops and healthcare facilities, coupled with potential wait times, can pose challenges. The availability of accessible transportation is a key factor in determining the overall "Hypertension Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. These services can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing, especially for frequent trips, can be a financial burden. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas, cannot be guaranteed.

Medical transportation services specifically cater to individuals with mobility limitations. Companies like CareRide and Logisticare offer non-emergency medical transportation, often providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation. However, booking these services requires advance planning, and availability may be limited.

Pharmacies, a critical component of hypertension management, are generally accessible within the Belford area. Retail pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens, offer prescription filling services and are often conveniently located. However, the distance to a pharmacy, particularly for those with mobility limitations, remains a factor. Home delivery services offered by some pharmacies can mitigate this challenge.

Emergency medical services are readily available in Belford. The local emergency medical services (EMS) are equipped to respond to medical emergencies, including those related to hypertension. The proximity to hospitals, such as Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, is a significant advantage. However, the response time, which depends on traffic conditions and the location of the emergency, is a crucial factor in the overall "Hypertension Score."

Moving to Belford, or any community, requires a thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape. For individuals managing hypertension, the ease of access to healthcare is a critical consideration. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool, providing insights into the transportation challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 07718. It highlights the importance of considering all available transportation options and planning for potential obstacles.

The "Hypertension Score" in Belford, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion, presents a challenge. Public transportation offers an alternative, but with limitations in frequency and accessibility. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation provide convenient options, but at a cost. The accessibility of pharmacies and the availability of emergency medical services are positive factors.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Belford, NJ (07718) reflects a community with good healthcare resources, but with transportation challenges that require careful planning. Individuals managing hypertension should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure timely access to essential healthcare services. The availability of multiple transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the responsiveness of emergency services contribute to a favorable overall score. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration.