07704, Fair Haven, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07704, Fair Haven, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.85 percent of residents in 07704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 1.60 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07704 (Fair Haven, NJ)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Fair Haven, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07704) necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access, particularly focusing on the ease and efficiency of transportation. This analysis considers various modes, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a nuanced perspective for those considering moving to Fair Haven and their ability to obtain timely medical care.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Fair Haven is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town’s relatively low population density and suburban layout necessitate driving for most medical appointments. While the roads are generally well-maintained, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times, thereby affecting the overall health score.

The major arteries serving Fair Haven include the Garden State Parkway, a toll road providing rapid north-south access. The drive to major hospitals like Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, a vital healthcare hub, typically takes 10-15 minutes under normal conditions via the Parkway or Route 35. However, rush hour can easily double this time, emphasizing the importance of factoring in potential delays when scheduling appointments or seeking emergency care.

Route 35, a major commercial thoroughfare, offers an alternative route, albeit one prone to traffic, particularly near intersections. The secondary roads, such as River Road and Ridge Road, provide local access, but are often slower and less direct. The strategic location of Fair Haven, nestled between these major roadways, offers residents multiple options for transportation, yet the potential for delays remains a significant concern.

Public transportation options in Fair Haven are limited, impacting the health score for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes in the area, offering a crucial link for some residents. The 817 and 836 routes connect Fair Haven to neighboring towns and key destinations, including Red Bank, where several medical facilities are located.

However, the frequency of these bus routes can be infrequent, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, posing a challenge for timely healthcare access. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, necessitating transfers and extending travel times. While NJT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the overall impact on the health score is a reduction, owing to the limited availability and potential inconvenience.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient alternative, particularly for those unable or unwilling to drive. These services offer on-demand transportation to medical appointments, offering a degree of flexibility. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak demand or in areas with limited driver availability. This variability introduces an element of uncertainty, potentially affecting the reliability of healthcare access and impacting the overall health score.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services provide transportation for patients requiring assistance, including those with mobility limitations or who need medical supervision during transit. While these services are essential for a segment of the population, their availability and cost can vary, influencing the health score for those who rely on them.

The proximity of Fair Haven to major healthcare providers is a significant advantage. Riverview Medical Center, a comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of services, is easily accessible by car. Numerous specialist offices and outpatient clinics are located in Red Bank and surrounding towns, providing residents with convenient access to various medical specialities. This geographic advantage positively impacts the health score, mitigating some of the challenges posed by transportation limitations.

The overall health score for Fair Haven residents is influenced by the interplay of various factors. While the town's proximity to healthcare facilities is a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variability of ride-sharing services introduce challenges. The potential for traffic congestion and the cost of transportation services further affect the health score.

For individuals considering moving to Fair Haven, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who can drive and have access to a personal vehicle will likely experience a higher health score due to their increased flexibility and control over their transportation. However, those who rely on public transit, ride-sharing, or specialized medical transport should carefully consider the limitations and potential challenges associated with these modes.

The overall health score is also influenced by individual circumstances. Factors such as age, health status, and financial resources can significantly impact healthcare access. For example, seniors or individuals with chronic illnesses may face greater challenges in accessing transportation and may require specialized services.

The availability of telehealth services, which have gained prominence in recent years, offers another avenue for healthcare access, potentially improving the health score for some residents. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits and mitigating transportation challenges. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on factors such as internet access, technological proficiency, and the nature of the medical condition.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Fair Haven (07704) is a complex metric influenced by transportation infrastructure, service availability, and individual circumstances. While the town's proximity to healthcare providers is a significant advantage, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the variability of ride-sharing services introduce challenges. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to determine if Fair Haven is the right fit. The health score is also impacted by the individual's ability to navigate the transportation landscape, access available services, and leverage telehealth options.