07825, Blairstown, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07825, Blairstown, New Jersey is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.25 percent of residents in 07825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahs Hospital Corp with a distance of 11.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 07825

This assessment delves into the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Blairstown, New Jersey (ZIP code 07825), providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, ultimately reflecting the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare. This analysis is crucial for anyone considering moving to Blairstown, as healthcare access significantly impacts overall well-being.

Blairstown, nestled in Warren County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural nature and limited public transportation options necessitate a detailed examination of available transportation to healthcare facilities. The "Overall Health Score" aims to paint a comprehensive picture, guiding potential residents and informing current ones about the realities of healthcare access in this charming community.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Blairstown is personal vehicles. The road network, while scenic, dictates the efficiency of travel. The primary arteries influencing drive times are **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, **Route 94**, and **Route 521**.

Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as Hackettstown Medical Center, involves navigating these roads. Hackettstown, approximately 15 miles away, typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey utilizes **Route 94** to **Route 46** and then **Route 57** to Hackettstown.

Traveling further afield to larger hospitals in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, like St. Luke's Hospital - Anderson Campus, involves a longer commute. This trip, roughly 30-40 miles, utilizes **I-80 West** to **Route 33 South**. The drive can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, contingent on traffic conditions.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice, common during winter months, can lengthen commutes and potentially hinder access to urgent care. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges this potential for disruption, factoring it into the assessment.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Blairstown are limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider is **NJ Transit**, but its service in this area is sparse.

The **Route 197** bus, while serving the Blairstown area, primarily connects to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. This route is not designed for healthcare access, and the travel time to New York City is not conducive to immediate medical needs.

The lack of frequent, direct bus routes to nearby hospitals and medical centers contributes to a lower "Overall Health Score" for public transit. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on available routes needs further investigation. Information on ADA features, such as ramps and designated seating, is crucial for those with mobility impairments. The limited public transit options necessitate reliance on other modes of transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Blairstown, but their availability and reliability can vary. The availability of drivers may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can present challenges for those needing immediate or scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services, catering specifically to patients with mobility limitations or requiring specialized care, offer an alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **CareLine Ambulance**. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transportation to doctor's appointments, dialysis, and other medical treatments.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The "Overall Health Score" considers the financial implications of relying on these services, acknowledging the potential burden on residents.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Blairstown:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Blairstown, ZIP code 07825, is moderate. While the road network allows for relatively efficient driving to nearby healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services present challenges.

The score is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Blairstown. Those without access to a personal vehicle, or those with mobility limitations, will face greater difficulties in accessing healthcare. It is imperative to factor in the costs and availability of alternative transportation methods when making a decision.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static measure. It is subject to change based on factors such as the expansion of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the development of new healthcare facilities in the area.

For those considering moving to Blairstown, researching healthcare providers and transportation options before relocating is crucial. Understanding the limitations and costs associated with healthcare access will allow for informed decision-making and ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool in this process, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility within the community.