07721, Cliffwood, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07721, Cliffwood, New Jersey is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.63 percent of residents in 07721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 3.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07721 (Cliffwood, NJ)

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a deep dive into various factors. One crucial element is the ease with which residents can access healthcare. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within ZIP code 07721, specifically Cliffwood, New Jersey, and how it impacts residents' ability to reach medical facilities. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for anyone **moving to Cliffwood**.

The **transportation** network in Cliffwood, while offering a degree of connectivity, presents certain challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The area's reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, can create barriers for those without cars, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. Understanding these nuances is crucial for evaluating the overall health score.

Driving to healthcare facilities is the most common method for residents of 07721. The primary thoroughfares impacting commute times are the Garden State Parkway and Route 35. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers located further afield. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. Route 35, a more local road, offers direct access to nearby medical offices and clinics, but it is prone to traffic lights and local congestion.

For instance, a trip to Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, a major regional hospital, typically takes 15-25 minutes via the Garden State Parkway, depending on traffic. Reaching urgent care facilities in Hazlet might take around 10-15 minutes via Route 35. Smaller practices and specialist offices located in Aberdeen or Matawan can be reached in 10-20 minutes via a combination of local roads. The availability of parking at these facilities is generally adequate, but it can be a factor during peak hours.

Public transit options in Cliffwood are limited, which presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service, primarily Route 67, which connects Cliffwood with key destinations like the Hazlet Train Station and the Aberdeen-Matawan Train Station. The bus route, however, operates on a limited schedule, especially on weekends and evenings. This schedule may not align with medical appointments, requiring careful planning and potential delays.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. NJT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses with features like wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the availability of accessible bus stops and the overall ease of navigating the system with mobility aids can vary. Residents with disabilities should confirm the accessibility of specific bus stops and routes before relying on public transit for healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The availability of these services in Cliffwood is generally good, although surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. Ride-sharing can provide convenient door-to-door service, but it's important to factor in potential wait times, especially during inclement weather or at off-peak hours. Booking rides in advance is advisable for medical appointments to ensure timely arrival.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, including those requiring assistance with mobility or those who cannot travel independently. Several providers operate in the area, offering services like wheelchair-accessible vehicles, stretcher transportation, and non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. The cost of medical transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

Several medical transportation brands serve the 07721 area. Companies such as MedTrans and First Response Medical Transportation offer specialized services. These services can provide a vital lifeline for patients needing specialized care or those with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and it's essential to book well in advance to ensure availability.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 07721 reflects a mixed picture. While residents have access to a range of medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation create challenges for certain segments of the population. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays on the Garden State Parkway and Route 35 add another layer of complexity.

For individuals **moving to Cliffwood**, carefully considering their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the NJT bus routes and ADA accessibility. Those without cars should factor in the costs and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

In conclusion, improving the overall health score for healthcare access in 07721 requires addressing the limitations of the current transportation infrastructure. Enhancements to public transit, such as increased frequency and extended operating hours, would significantly benefit residents. Promoting awareness of available ride-sharing and medical transportation options, alongside initiatives to reduce traffic congestion, would also contribute to improved healthcare access for all. The future health of Cliffwood depends on it.