08733, Lakehurst, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 08733, Lakehurst, New Jersey is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.37 percent of residents in 08733 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 6.25 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lakehurst, NJ (ZIP Code 08733)

The decision to relocate, especially when managing a health condition like hypertension, demands a thorough understanding of local resources. For prospective residents considering a move to Lakehurst, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08733), this write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and healthcare access critical for managing this chronic condition. This score considers the ease of reaching medical appointments, pharmacies, and related services, directly impacting the ability to maintain optimal blood pressure control.

Lakehurst, a borough in Ocean County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The town’s relatively small size offers a sense of community, but the availability of specialized medical services, particularly for hypertension management, requires a careful evaluation of transportation options. The "Hypertension Score" considers the practicality and efficiency of getting to and from appointments, factoring in both time and potential stress.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

Personal vehicle remains a primary mode of transportation in Lakehurst. Residents rely on a network of roads, with the most crucial arteries being the Garden State Parkway, Route 37, and Route 70. The proximity of these highways significantly impacts access to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and specialists.

For routine appointments, the drive time to local primary care physicians within Lakehurst and neighboring towns like Toms River and Manchester is typically manageable. Reaching these practices, often located along Route 70 or near the Garden State Parkway, usually takes between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak hours, however, congestion can increase travel times, potentially impacting the timely administration of medications or the need for urgent care.

Specialist care, particularly cardiology and nephrology services crucial for hypertension management, often necessitates travel outside of Lakehurst. The drive to larger hospitals and specialized clinics, such as Community Medical Center in Toms River, may extend to 20-30 minutes, or even longer during rush hour. These longer commutes can add stress and potentially disrupt medication schedules, impacting blood pressure control.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Public transportation options in Lakehurst are limited but present a viable alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. Ocean Ride, the county's public transit system, offers bus routes that serve the area. However, the frequency of service and the routes available can be limiting, especially for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Route 559, a key Ocean Ride route, provides service through Lakehurst, connecting it to Toms River and other key locations. While this route offers a degree of accessibility, the schedule may not align perfectly with appointment times, and the journey can be time-consuming due to multiple stops. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is crucial. All Ocean Ride buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, ensuring that those with mobility challenges can access healthcare.

Navigating the public transit system requires careful planning. The lack of direct routes to all healthcare facilities necessitates transfers, potentially increasing travel time and the risk of missed appointments. The "Hypertension Score" considers the reliability and efficiency of these routes as a critical factor in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Expanding the Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transportation. These services are readily available in Lakehurst and provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related destinations. The ability to book a ride quickly and efficiently is a significant advantage, especially for those with mobility limitations or who prefer not to drive.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with healthcare needs, offer specialized support. Companies like Senior Ride NJ and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including door-to-door service, assistance with boarding and disembarking, and sometimes even accompaniment to appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance navigating the healthcare system.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability, cost, and reliability of these ride-share and medical transportation options. While these services offer increased flexibility and convenience, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

**Pharmacies and Essential Services**

Access to pharmacies is crucial for managing hypertension. Lakehurst and the surrounding areas have several pharmacies, including national chains and local pharmacies. These pharmacies provide prescription refills, over-the-counter medications, and essential health services, such as blood pressure monitoring. The proximity of pharmacies to residents and healthcare facilities is a key component of the "Hypertension Score."

Other essential services, such as grocery stores offering healthy food options and exercise facilities, also contribute to the overall score. Access to these resources supports a healthy lifestyle, which is crucial for managing hypertension. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance of residents is a vital consideration.

**The "Hypertension Score" – A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Lakehurst (ZIP Code 08733) is based on a composite of these factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transportation, the accessibility of ride-share and medical transportation services, and the proximity of pharmacies and essential services.

The score is designed to provide a realistic assessment of the ease with which residents can access healthcare, specifically for managing hypertension. It is not a definitive judgment but a tool to aid in informed decision-making. The score can be influenced by individual circumstances, such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and personal preferences.

**Moving to Lakehurst: A Personalized Approach**

For individuals considering moving to Lakehurst, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a starting point for a personalized evaluation. Prospective residents should consider their individual needs and preferences when assessing the transportation options and healthcare access.

It is essential to research the specific healthcare providers in the area, including their locations, hours of operation, and insurance acceptance. Contacting local pharmacies to inquire about prescription refill services and delivery options is also recommended.

Furthermore, individuals should explore the availability of ride-share and medical transportation services and assess the associated costs. Familiarizing oneself with the Ocean Ride bus routes and schedules is also advisable.

The decision to move to Lakehurst should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for this understanding, empowering prospective residents to make informed choices about their healthcare access and overall well-being. The goal is to ensure that managing hypertension is as stress-free as possible, allowing individuals to focus on enjoying the benefits of living in this Ocean County borough.