07724, Eatontown, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07724, Eatontown, New Jersey is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.40 percent of residents in 07724 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 3.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Eatontown (ZIP Code 07724)

Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone, especially those contemplating a move to a new area. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities within and surrounding Eatontown, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07724). We will delve into various transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families prioritizing healthcare access when considering moving to Eatontown.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation mode and their impact on healthcare access. Factors considered include drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and the presence of medical transport services. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare transportation within the Eatontown area.

**Driving: The Dominant Force**

For residents of Eatontown, personal vehicles remain the most common mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for navigating the area are the Garden State Parkway, Route 35, and Route 36. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides relatively quick access to healthcare providers in both directions. Route 35, running parallel to the Parkway, offers a more local route, often experiencing heavier traffic, especially during peak hours. Route 36, connecting Eatontown to the coastal towns, provides another crucial link, though it too can be congested.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in Eatontown and surrounding towns vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. Monmouth Medical Center, located in Long Branch, is a major regional hospital. During off-peak hours, a drive to Monmouth Medical Center from Eatontown might take approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 36. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily double. Other facilities, such as outpatient clinics and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the area, with travel times depending on their specific locations. Traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly impact healthcare access, potentially delaying appointments and increasing stress levels.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Eatontown are limited, posing a challenge for those who rely on it for healthcare access. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service in the area, with several routes serving Eatontown. The primary routes that could be used to access healthcare facilities include the 830 and 832. However, these routes often have limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends.

The availability of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. NJ Transit strives to provide accessible buses, but the overall convenience of public transit for healthcare access in Eatontown remains a concern. Travel times on buses are often longer than driving, and transfers may be required, adding to the complexity of the commute. For those considering moving to Eatontown, the limitations of public transit should be carefully considered, especially if they rely on it for healthcare needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Eatontown and offer an alternative to driving or public transit. These services can provide convenient access to healthcare facilities, especially for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be particularly helpful for appointments at off-peak hours or when public transit options are limited. However, ride-sharing costs can add up, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services are crucial for those who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using public transit. Several medical transport providers operate in the Eatontown area, offering various levels of service, from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance. The availability and cost of these services are important factors to consider when assessing healthcare access.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Eatontown (ZIP Code 07724) reflects a mixed picture. While driving offers the most direct and flexible access, traffic congestion can pose a significant challenge, especially during peak hours. Public transit provides a limited alternative, with potential drawbacks in terms of frequency, travel time, and accessibility. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable options, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals moving to Eatontown, the "Overall Health Score" suggests the need for careful planning. Those who drive will likely find healthcare access relatively convenient, but should factor in potential traffic delays. Those reliant on public transit will need to carefully evaluate the available bus routes and schedules. Individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs should explore the options offered by medical transport services.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Eatontown is moderate. While driving is the dominant mode, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services require careful consideration. Anyone considering moving to Eatontown should thoroughly research the location of healthcare facilities, assess their transportation needs, and plan accordingly to ensure seamless access to healthcare services. This proactive approach will help them make an informed decision and maintain their health and well-being in their new community.