07734, Keansburg, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07734, Keansburg, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.53 percent of residents in 07734 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 3.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Keansburg, NJ (ZIP Code 07734)

This assessment analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Keansburg, New Jersey (ZIP code 07734), considering various modes of transportation. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease with which individuals can access essential medical care. This information is especially crucial for anyone considering moving to Keansburg, as readily available healthcare significantly impacts overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" will be a subjective assessment, considering factors beyond simple distance or time. It will incorporate elements of convenience, cost, and the availability of specialized services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility within and around Keansburg. The score will range from "Poor" to "Excellent," with each level representing a specific range of access challenges and advantages.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Keansburg's location in Monmouth County presents a mixed bag for healthcare access by car. The primary arteries for travel are **NJ Route 36** and **NJ Route 35**. These roads, while providing direct routes to neighboring towns, can experience significant congestion, particularly during peak hours. The proximity to the Garden State Parkway offers an alternative, but tolls and potential traffic can add to travel time.

For routine appointments, like primary care or general dentistry, residents can often find services within a 15-20 minute drive. Towns like Middletown, Hazlet, and Belford, all accessible via Route 36, offer a range of medical practices. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel further afield.

Drive times to major hospitals, like Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel (via the Garden State Parkway or Route 36) can range from 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, accessible primarily via Route 36, presents a similar time frame. The availability of parking at these facilities, particularly during peak hours, should also be factored into the overall assessment.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Keansburg, while present, offers limited options for healthcare access. The **NJ Transit bus system** provides the primary public transit service, with routes serving the area. The **Route 817** provides service to and from the Hazlet train station, offering access to the North Jersey Coast Line. However, bus frequency can be a significant drawback, especially during evenings and weekends.

The availability of **ADA-accessible buses** is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. NJ Transit strives to maintain ADA compliance, but the reliability of these features and the overall accessibility of bus stops can vary. Individuals relying on public transit for healthcare appointments should carefully plan their trips, accounting for potential delays and the need to transfer between routes.

The **Hazlet train station**, while offering a more reliable schedule, requires a bus connection from Keansburg, adding to the overall travel time. This can be particularly challenging for those with mobility limitations or those needing to travel with medical equipment. The cost of public transportation, while generally more affordable than driving, should also be considered, especially for frequent appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Keansburg and can provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as **CareRide** and **Ambulette**, offer specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. While offering a valuable service, these options often come at a higher cost than other modes of transportation. The availability of these services and the ability to book appointments in advance are also crucial considerations.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Keansburg (ZIP code 07734) is **Fair**. While residents have access to a range of healthcare providers, challenges exist in terms of transportation. Driving is the most direct option, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. Public transportation offers a more affordable alternative, but limited frequency and potential accessibility issues pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but at a higher cost.

Individuals considering moving to Keansburg should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Those with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent specialized care should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities or consider the cost and availability of medical transport services. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to healthcare, ultimately impacting overall health and well-being.