07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.73 percent of residents in 07755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center with a distance of 2.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oakhurst, NJ (ZIP Code 07755)

This report provides an overall health score assessment for residents of Oakhurst, New Jersey (ZIP code 07755), focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access through various transportation options. Understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities is paramount in evaluating community well-being. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of the accessibility landscape for those seeking healthcare.

Oakhurst, nestled within Monmouth County, benefits from a relatively advantageous location. However, healthcare access, like anywhere, is influenced by transportation realities. The score reflects the multifaceted nature of reaching healthcare, accounting for the practicalities of daily life. This is especially relevant for individuals considering moving to Oakhurst, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health needs.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Oakhurst are the Garden State Parkway and Route 35. The Garden State Parkway provides a north-south corridor, offering quick access to hospitals in Long Branch and Red Bank. Route 35, running parallel to the coastline, facilitates travel to local medical offices and urgent care facilities.

During peak hours, the Garden State Parkway can experience heavy congestion, particularly around exits leading to hospitals. However, the overall drive times to major healthcare providers are generally reasonable. Expect a 10-20 minute drive to Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch, and a similar timeframe to Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, depending on traffic.

Smaller medical practices and urgent care facilities are often accessible within a 5-10 minute drive, primarily along Route 35 and local roads. The efficiency of this road network is critical, especially for emergency situations. Considering the prevalence of aging residents in the area, rapid access to healthcare is a significant factor in the overall health score.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Oakhurst are available, but limited. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) operates bus routes that serve the area. The primary route of relevance is the 830 bus, which runs along Route 35, connecting to nearby towns and offering access to some medical facilities.

While NJ Transit buses provide an affordable option, they can be subject to delays and may not directly serve all healthcare locations. The frequency of service varies, and the routes may require transfers to reach certain medical centers. The 830 bus does offer ADA accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, making it accessible for individuals with mobility limitations.

However, the limited scope of public transit presents a challenge for residents without personal vehicles. The reliability and convenience of public transit are essential components of healthcare access, and the relative scarcity of these services in Oakhurst slightly diminishes the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Oakhurst. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can provide door-to-door service, making it easier to reach medical appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services, however, is subject to demand and pricing fluctuations. During peak hours or periods of high demand, wait times may increase, and fares may be higher. Nonetheless, the presence of these services significantly enhances healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Specialized medical transport services are also available in the area. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those who require wheelchair assistance or stretcher transport. Companies such as Atlantic Ambulance and Bayshore Medical Transport operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation.

These specialized services are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. While these services come at a cost, they offer a vital link to healthcare for those who cannot utilize other transportation options.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Oakhurst, NJ (ZIP code 07755) is moderately positive. The accessibility is determined by the interplay of various transportation options, with the road network being the most reliable means of getting to medical facilities.

The proximity of major hospitals and medical centers is a significant advantage, and the availability of ride-sharing services further enhances access. The primary limitations are the limited public transportation options and potential traffic congestion during peak hours.

For individuals considering moving to Oakhurst, this assessment highlights the importance of evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. While the area generally offers good access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit should be considered.

The presence of ride-sharing and specialized medical transport services provides additional support for those who may face challenges with traditional transportation. The overall health score reflects a balance between convenience and potential limitations, making Oakhurst a reasonably accessible location for healthcare, but with room for improvement in public transit infrastructure.

The health score is also influenced by the demographics of the community. An aging population, coupled with limited public transit, underscores the importance of reliable and accessible transportation options. The availability of ride-sharing and specialized medical transport services helps mitigate some of the challenges faced by this demographic.

In conclusion, while Oakhurst boasts a relatively favorable healthcare access environment, further investment in public transit and initiatives to improve traffic flow could significantly enhance the overall health score and improve the well-being of its residents. The evaluation of transportation options is a key factor in assessing the overall health of a community.