Overall Health Score

07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

Average Rating: 0.0 / 5 stars

0 Reviews

Health Scores

Travel Score in 07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.98 percent of residents in 07762 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jersey Shore University Medical Center with a distance of 3.91 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey

Overall Health Score 82
People Score 59
Provider Score 88
Hospital Score 35
Travel Score 60

Closest Hospital - JERSEY SHORE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 07762 Spring Lake New Jersey
No Cars 3.03 3.03 6.31
1 Car 27.04 27.04 22.51
2 Cars 38.94 38.94 39.65
3 or More Cars 30.99 30.99 31.52

Vehicular Access in 07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey

Travel Score Review of 07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Spring Lake (ZIP Code 07762)

The picturesque coastal town of Spring Lake, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07762), beckons with its charming Victorian architecture, pristine beaches, and close-knit community. However, the idyllic facade hides a crucial aspect of well-being: access to healthcare. This write-up assesses the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Spring Lake, focusing on the critical component of transportation to and from medical facilities. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Spring Lake, as it directly impacts their healthcare access.

A robust "Overall Health Score" considers various factors, including the availability of healthcare providers, the quality of medical services, and, significantly, the ease with which residents can reach those services. Transportation plays a pivotal role, acting as a bridge or a barrier to timely and effective healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding Spring Lake, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

For residents of Spring Lake, the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare is undoubtedly the automobile. The town's location, nestled along the Jersey Shore, dictates the routes to essential medical facilities. The primary arteries for travel are the scenic Ocean Avenue, which hugs the coastline, and the more direct Route 71, which runs north-south, connecting Spring Lake to neighboring towns and cities.

The closest hospitals are located in neighboring towns. Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune Township, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 71. This relatively short drive time offers residents of Spring Lake rapid access to a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Long Branch is another option, roughly a 25-30 minute drive, also accessible via Route 71.

However, drive times can fluctuate considerably, especially during peak seasons. Summer weekends and holidays bring a surge of tourists to the Jersey Shore, causing significant traffic congestion. This can extend drive times to hospitals and medical offices, potentially delaying critical care. Furthermore, the condition of the roads, including potholes and construction, can also impact travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Viable Alternative**

Public transportation in Spring Lake offers a limited but potentially valuable alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service in the area. The 317 bus route, for example, offers service along Route 71, connecting Spring Lake to neighboring towns and cities, including Asbury Park, where healthcare facilities are available.

The accessibility of these routes is a crucial factor in the "Overall Health Score." NJ Transit strives to provide ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially hindering access to medical appointments and emergency care. The travel time on public transit is typically longer than driving, as buses make multiple stops and are subject to traffic delays.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in the Spring Lake area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly helpful for residents who do not own a car or are unable to drive. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times can increase, and surge pricing may apply, making ride-sharing a less affordable option.

Medical transportation services specifically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several providers operate in the Spring Lake area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve door-to-door transportation in specially equipped vehicles, often with trained personnel to assist passengers.

Examples of medical transport brands that service the Spring Lake area include:

* **Atlantic Ambulance:** This company provides both emergency and non-emergency medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **CareRide Medical Transportation:** This company offers NEMT services, focusing on patient comfort and safety.
* **MedTrans Transportation:** This company provides a range of transportation options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.

The availability and cost of these medical transport services are critical considerations for the "Overall Health Score." While these services can bridge the gap for individuals with mobility limitations, they often come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing.

**Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for Transportation and Healthcare Access**

The "Overall Health Score" for transportation to healthcare in Spring Lake, ZIP Code 07762, presents a mixed picture. The proximity to major hospitals in neighboring towns, with drive times generally under 30 minutes, is a significant positive factor. This ensures rapid access to emergency care and a wide range of medical services.

However, the dependence on automobiles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak seasons, introduces a degree of uncertainty. The limited public transit options, while providing an alternative, are constrained by frequency and travel times. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient option but are subject to availability and cost fluctuations. Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations but come at a premium.

For those considering moving to Spring Lake, a thorough understanding of these transportation dynamics is essential. While the town's location offers relatively good access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on automobiles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their cost and availability should be factored into the overall assessment.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for transportation to healthcare in Spring Lake is moderately positive. The accessibility to major hospitals is a key strength, but the reliance on automobiles and the limitations of public transit warrant careful consideration. Residents should be aware of the potential for traffic congestion and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Careful planning and awareness of available options are crucial for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access in this charming coastal community.

Reviews

Recent Reviews

No reviews yet.

Leave a review
Health Scores Near 07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey

You may also like

07719, Belmar, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 1.62 Miles

Total Population: 21,857

07717, Avon By The Sea, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 2.91 Miles

Total Population: 1,760

07720, Bradley Beach, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 3.26 Miles

Total Population: 4,170

07753, Neptune, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 4.30 Miles

Total Population: 37,370

07756, Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 4.46 Miles

Total Population: 3,076

07712, Asbury Park, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 4.46 Miles

Total Population: 39,491

07723, Deal, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 7.50 Miles

Total Population: 603

07727, Farmingdale, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 7.70 Miles

Total Population: 6,394

07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 07762: 7.95 Miles

Total Population: 6,651

Health Scores in 07762, Spring Lake, New Jersey