07747, Matawan, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07747, Matawan, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.75 percent of residents in 07747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 1.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07747 (Matawan, NJ)

This assessment provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare accessibility for residents of Matawan, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07747). We will examine the various transportation options available for accessing medical facilities, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This analysis aims to inform potential residents considering moving to Matawan, providing a clear picture of the ease with which they can reach crucial healthcare services.

The overall health score considers the efficiency and reliability of transportation options, proximity to medical facilities, and the availability of services catering to individuals with disabilities. A high score indicates excellent access, while a lower score reflects potential challenges in accessing healthcare.

**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure:**

Matawan's location offers both advantages and disadvantages regarding transportation. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are the Garden State Parkway and Route 34. The Parkway provides a direct north-south artery, connecting Matawan to hospitals in Monmouth and Middlesex counties. Route 34 serves as a critical east-west connector, facilitating access to medical offices and facilities in nearby towns.

During peak hours, traffic congestion on the Parkway and Route 34 can significantly impact drive times. Morning and evening commutes often experience delays, potentially increasing the time needed to reach medical appointments. However, the overall road infrastructure is generally well-maintained, contributing to a relatively smooth transportation experience.

Reaching major hospitals such as Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel or Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy typically requires a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Smaller medical offices and urgent care facilities located within Matawan or neighboring towns like Aberdeen and Hazlet are generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive.

**Public Transit Options:**

New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides public transportation options for residents of Matawan. The North Jersey Coast Line train offers a direct route to New York City, but its relevance to healthcare access is limited. However, NJT bus routes, specifically the 67 and 817 lines, are crucial for accessing local medical facilities.

The 67 bus route connects Matawan to Keyport, Hazlet, and Middletown, providing access to various medical offices and urgent care centers. The 817 bus route offers service to Freehold, which includes access to CentraState Medical Center. Both routes operate with varying frequencies throughout the day, with reduced service on weekends and holidays.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor in evaluating public transit. NJT strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair lifts on buses and accessible features at train stations. However, the availability of these features can vary, and riders should confirm accessibility before traveling.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Matawan, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, offering flexibility and ease of use. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available for residents requiring assistance. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. Medical transportation companies often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers.

Several medical transportation brands operate in the Matawan area, including First Transit and Senior Transportation Services. These services require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The availability and cost of medical transportation should be considered when assessing healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access and Proximity:**

Matawan offers a diverse range of healthcare options, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities. The town's proximity to larger medical centers in surrounding areas provides access to a broader spectrum of medical services.

The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access. Residents of Matawan have multiple options for receiving medical care, minimizing the need for extensive travel. However, the specific needs of individual residents, such as the need for specialized care, will influence their overall healthcare access experience.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Matawan (ZIP Code 07747) is considered good. The availability of multiple transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, contributes to a positive score. The proximity to a variety of medical facilities further enhances healthcare access.

However, several factors should be considered. Traffic congestion during peak hours can impact drive times. The frequency of public transit service may be limited, especially on weekends. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a burden for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Matawan, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation preferences is recommended. Prospective residents should research the availability of specific medical services, the accessibility of public transit, and the cost of transportation options.

**Conclusion:**

Matawan offers a favorable environment for accessing healthcare. The combination of convenient roadways, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation provides residents with diverse options. While some challenges exist, such as traffic congestion and limited public transit frequency, the overall healthcare access score is positive. Moving to Matawan offers residents reasonable access to a comprehensive range of medical services.