07703, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07703, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 07703 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 2.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07703

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, particularly when considering a relocation to a new area. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 07703, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services, considering various transportation options and their impact on timely access to medical care. This analysis is especially relevant for individuals and families **moving to Fort Monmouth** and seeking to understand the practicalities of healthcare access in their new community.

ZIP Code 07703, encompassing the areas surrounding Eatontown, New Jersey, presents a unique blend of suburban and coastal living. Its proximity to the Jersey Shore offers recreational opportunities, but its healthcare access hinges significantly on the efficiency of its **transportation** infrastructure. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical facilities is a key determinant of the overall health score.

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in 07703 are the Garden State Parkway and Route 35. The Garden State Parkway, a toll road, provides relatively swift north-south travel. Route 35, a major thoroughfare, offers more local access, connecting various towns and commercial centers. Congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying access to urgent care or scheduled appointments.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary depending on the location within 07703 and the destination. Monmouth Medical Center, located in Long Branch, is a significant regional hospital. Driving times to Monmouth Medical Center can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 36 and local roads. Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, another major hospital, typically requires a 20- to 35-minute drive via Route 35 or the Garden State Parkway. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are generally more accessible, often reachable within a 10- to 20-minute drive.

Public **transportation** options in 07703 offer an alternative to driving, though their impact on healthcare access requires careful consideration. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service in the area. Several bus routes, including the 830, 831, and 832, serve areas within and around 07703, connecting residents to nearby towns and potentially to healthcare facilities. The frequency of these routes, however, can be a limiting factor, especially for those requiring timely medical attention. The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features on these buses is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring their ability to utilize public transit.

The NJT train system, while not directly serving all parts of 07703, offers access to stations in nearby towns such as Long Branch and Red Bank. From these stations, residents can connect to hospitals and medical centers. The train offers a more reliable travel time compared to buses, particularly during rush hour. However, the need for transfers and the distance from the train stations to medical facilities can add to the overall travel time and complexity.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 07703, providing on-demand **transportation** to healthcare appointments. These services offer convenience and flexibility, allowing individuals to bypass the complexities of public transit or the potential stress of driving. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a crucial service for individuals with limited mobility or those who cannot drive themselves. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, ensuring patients can safely and comfortably reach their medical appointments. Researching the availability and coverage of these services within 07703 is essential for those who require them.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 07703 is influenced by the interplay of these **transportation** options. While the area benefits from proximity to major hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services, the reliance on private vehicles, potential traffic congestion, and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The cost of ride-sharing and the availability of medical **transportation** services can also impact the overall score.

For individuals **moving to Fort Monmouth**, careful consideration of these factors is crucial. Assessing the proximity of their residence to healthcare facilities, evaluating the reliability of their chosen **transportation** method, and understanding the availability of support services like NEMT are essential steps in ensuring timely and convenient access to medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" for 07703 is, therefore, a nuanced assessment. It acknowledges the presence of quality healthcare providers in the region but also highlights the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making when it comes to **healthcare access**. Residents need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each **transportation** option, considering their individual needs, financial constraints, and mobility limitations.

Furthermore, the ongoing development of **Fort Monmouth** and the potential influx of new residents may impact the healthcare landscape. Increased demand for services could strain existing resources, potentially affecting wait times and the availability of appointments. Therefore, staying informed about changes in healthcare access and proactively seeking information about available services is crucial for maintaining a high "Overall Health Score."

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in 07703 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services offer advantages, the potential for traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of some **transportation** options present challenges. Residents, particularly those **moving to Fort Monmouth**, must carefully assess their individual needs and proactively plan their healthcare **transportation** strategies to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care. This proactive approach is key to maximizing their "Overall Health Score" and ensuring a positive healthcare experience in their new community.