07735, Keyport, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07735, Keyport, New Jersey is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.80 percent of residents in 07735 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 2.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Keyport, NJ (ZIP Code 07735)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Keyport, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07735), a charming borough nestled along the Raritan Bay, residents' overall health score is significantly impacted by the available transportation options to reach medical facilities. This write-up delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare within and around Keyport, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Keyport** or seeking to understand the area's **healthcare access**.

The **transportation** landscape in Keyport presents a mixed bag. While the borough itself is relatively compact, offering walkable access to some local services, accessing specialized medical care often necessitates venturing beyond its borders. This reality directly influences the overall health score of the community, highlighting the importance of understanding the available options.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary roadways for healthcare access are the Garden State Parkway and Route 35. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers further afield. However, peak-hour traffic can significantly extend travel times, especially during weekday commutes.

Route 35, running parallel to the Parkway, provides a more local route, connecting Keyport to neighboring towns like Hazlet, Middletown, and Red Bank. This route offers access to urgent care facilities, primary care physicians, and some specialized clinics. However, Route 35 is often congested, particularly during rush hour, and can be a frustrating experience for those needing timely medical attention.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For instance, accessing Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, a well-regarded hospital, typically takes 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions via the Garden State Parkway. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or longer. Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, another major hospital, is accessible via Route 35, and the drive can range from 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. Smaller, specialized clinics within the region are often more accessible, with drive times typically under 20 minutes.

**Public Transit Options:**

New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides public transportation options, though their utility for healthcare access in Keyport is limited. The NJ Transit’s North Jersey Coast Line offers train service, with the Keyport station providing access to destinations along the coast and into New York City. However, the train is less useful for reaching hospitals and clinics located inland.

Bus routes, particularly the 817 and 836, offer some connectivity within Monmouth County. The 817 route travels from Keyport to Freehold, passing through towns with some medical facilities. The 836 route primarily serves local areas. However, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. NJ Transit strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and trains. However, the availability of accessible routes and the reliability of these services can vary. Those relying on public transit for healthcare access should thoroughly investigate the accessibility features of the specific routes and stations they intend to use.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Keyport and offer a convenient, albeit potentially costly, option for healthcare transportation. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours, and surge pricing during periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, are also available. Companies like First Transit and CareRide offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often require advance booking and can be a more expensive option than ride-sharing or public transit. However, they provide a crucial service for those unable to drive or use standard transportation options.

**The Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The availability and accessibility of transportation options directly impact the overall health score of Keyport residents. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can create barriers to timely medical care. The limited public transit options, particularly for those needing to reach facilities outside the immediate area, further exacerbate this challenge.

For individuals considering **moving to Keyport**, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. It is essential to assess the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options that meet individual needs, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care.

The overall health score in Keyport is thus influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the borough benefits from its proximity to a range of healthcare providers, the effectiveness of accessing these providers hinges on the availability and efficiency of the **transportation** network. Improving **healthcare access** and addressing the transportation challenges are critical steps in enhancing the overall health and well-being of the Keyport community.