08802, Asbury, New Jersey Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 08802, Asbury, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.56 percent of residents in 08802 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Warren Hospital with a distance of 8.86 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 08802

Understanding the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 08802 can access crucial healthcare services, particularly for conditions like hypertension, is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, exploring drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the practical realities of healthcare access for individuals living in and potentially moving to Asbury Park.

The core of healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical facilities efficiently. For those in 08802, driving is a primary mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the Garden State Parkway (GSP) and Route 35. Depending on the destination, residents may also utilize local roads like Main Street and Deal Road. Drive times vary significantly based on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. A trip to a specialist in Red Bank, for instance, could take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day and the traffic on Route 35.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of challenges. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service within the area, with routes like the 830, 831, and 832 serving key locations. These buses can connect residents to hospitals and clinics, but frequency and travel times can be significant drawbacks. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. NJT is mandated to provide accessible buses, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can vary. For individuals with mobility limitations, the reliance on public transit can present significant hurdles in accessing timely healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel time compared to public transit. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Considering the financial burden is vital when assessing the overall "Hypertension Score."

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering specialized transportation options. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs must be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" should consider the specific needs of individuals managing this chronic condition. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits are all critical components of hypertension management. The ease of access to these services directly impacts patient outcomes and quality of life. A high "Hypertension Score" would indicate easy and reliable access to healthcare facilities, while a low score would highlight significant barriers to care.

For residents of 08802, the score is influenced by several factors. The proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies is crucial. The availability of transportation options, including drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing reliability, and medical transport services, plays a pivotal role. The affordability of transportation and healthcare services is another critical factor.

When considering moving to Asbury Park, prospective residents should carefully assess these factors. Researching the availability of healthcare providers in the area, understanding the transportation options, and estimating the associated costs are essential steps. A thorough investigation will provide a realistic picture of healthcare access and enable informed decision-making.

The presence of hospitals and urgent care centers within a reasonable distance is a positive factor. Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune is a major healthcare provider accessible from 08802, but travel times and traffic conditions must be factored in. Smaller clinics and specialized practices located closer to Asbury Park can improve healthcare access, reducing travel times and making it easier for residents to manage their health.

Public transit, while available, may not be the most convenient option for many residents. The limited frequency of bus routes and potential travel times can pose challenges, especially for those with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent appointments. The reliability of public transit is also a factor, as delays or disruptions can impact healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services offer a more flexible option, but the cost and availability of drivers can vary. Residents should research the typical costs of ride-sharing to healthcare facilities and consider the potential impact on their budget. The reliability of ride-sharing services during peak hours or in areas with lower demand should also be considered.

Medical transport services provide a specialized option for those with specific needs. Researching the availability of these services in the area and understanding the associated costs is essential. Individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey may find these services particularly beneficial.

The "Hypertension Score" must also incorporate the quality of healthcare services available in 08802. The availability of qualified physicians, specialists, and support staff is crucial. The quality of care provided by local healthcare facilities and the overall patient experience also impact the score.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for 08802 is a complex assessment, reflecting the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the specific needs of individuals managing hypertension. Drive times on the GSP, Route 35, and local roads are critical, as are the nuances of public transit via NJT routes, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. Prospective residents considering moving to Asbury Park should conduct thorough research, considering all these factors to make an informed decision about healthcare access. The score should reflect the ease and reliability with which residents can access the healthcare services they need to manage their condition effectively.