07712, Asbury Park, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07712, Asbury Park, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.02 percent of residents in 07712 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jersey Shore University Medical Center with a distance of 0.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07712 (Asbury Park, NJ)

The vibrant coastal city of Asbury Park, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07712), offers a unique blend of artistic energy, historical charm, and a burgeoning healthcare landscape. However, prospective residents, particularly those considering a move to the area, must carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services. This "Overall Health Score" aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and around Asbury Park, helping individuals make informed decisions about their well-being.

The primary concern for many is the ease with which they can reach medical facilities. This is where the "commute to healthcare" component becomes critical. Residents of 07712 have a variety of options, but the efficacy of these options varies based on individual needs and circumstances. The goal is to understand how easily one can access the care they need, whether it's a routine check-up or an emergency situation.

Driving is, for many, the most immediate option. The major arteries serving Asbury Park are the Garden State Parkway and Route 35. The Garden State Parkway, a toll road, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist offices located further north and south. Route 35, a more local thoroughfare, provides direct access to several medical facilities within and near Asbury Park. The drive time, however, is significantly affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

During rush hour, navigating Route 35 can be a slow and frustrating experience. Congestion can extend drive times to nearby hospitals like Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune (approximately 10-20 minutes outside of rush hour, but potentially 30-45 minutes or longer during peak times). Similarly, access to Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch (about 15-25 minutes without traffic) can be hindered. This is a critical consideration for those with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent care.

Public transportation, a vital component of healthcare access, presents a different set of considerations. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service to and from Asbury Park. Several bus routes, including the 317, 830, and 831, connect Asbury Park to surrounding towns and medical facilities. The 317, for example, travels north to Long Branch, providing access to Monmouth Medical Center. The 830 and 831 routes offer connections to other medical offices and facilities.

The frequency of these bus routes varies, with more frequent service during peak hours. However, the overall travel time via bus is often longer than driving, especially when factoring in potential wait times and transfers. For individuals with mobility limitations, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible services, but it's essential to confirm the availability of accessible routes and features for specific trips.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide door-to-door convenience and can be particularly useful for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The availability of ride-sharing services is generally good in Asbury Park, but costs can fluctuate based on demand and time of day. This is an important factor to consider when budgeting for healthcare-related transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. Companies like Atlantic Ambulance and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance during their journey. While these services can be beneficial, they often come with higher costs than other transportation options.

The healthcare landscape in Asbury Park itself is developing. The city has a variety of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities. However, the availability of specific specialists may be limited, requiring residents to travel to nearby towns for specialized care. This further emphasizes the importance of understanding transportation options and their associated travel times.

The overall health score for "commute to healthcare" in 07712 is a complex calculation. It considers the drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options. The score also weighs the availability of healthcare facilities within Asbury Park and the need to travel to neighboring towns for specialized care.

For individuals considering moving to Asbury Park, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Those with chronic conditions or those who require frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on their preferred mode of transportation. The proximity of hospitals, specialist offices, and urgent care centers to their potential residence is crucial.

For those who rely on public transportation, understanding the bus routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is paramount. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but the associated costs should be factored into the budget. Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations, but the cost factor should be considered.

The overall health score, then, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that evolves based on individual needs, the availability of transportation options, and the ever-changing healthcare landscape. It is a crucial consideration for anyone seeking to establish a healthy and fulfilling life in the vibrant community of Asbury Park.