07863, Oxford, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07863, Oxford, New Jersey is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.33 percent of residents in 07863 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahs Hospital Corp with a distance of 9.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Oxford, NJ (ZIP Code 07863)

Oxford, New Jersey, a charming locale nestled in Warren County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This analysis, a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 07863, examines the critical intersection of transportation infrastructure and the availability of medical services. Understanding these dynamics is paramount for residents, prospective movers, and policymakers striving to ensure optimal health outcomes. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing capabilities, and specialized medical transportation, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities within this community.

The foundation of healthcare access in Oxford is undeniably the automobile. The primary arteries for travel are **Interstate 80**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and **Route 31**, a north-south route. These highways, though offering relatively swift transit, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and inclement weather. Residents heading east toward Hackettstown or west towards Phillipsburg will find these routes essential. Local roads, including **Route 46** and various county routes, provide access to local medical facilities and services. The drive times to healthcare facilities are, therefore, significantly influenced by the efficiency of these roadways.

For residents relying on personal vehicles, the drive time to the nearest healthcare facilities becomes a crucial factor. **Hackettstown Medical Center**, a well-regarded facility, is typically a 15-20 minute drive via Route 46. This time can fluctuate depending on traffic conditions. Further afield, **St. Luke's Hospital – Warren Campus** in Phillipsburg, accessible via I-80 West, presents a longer commute, generally taking 25-35 minutes. Specialty clinics and services might necessitate even longer journeys, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on their location. These drive times are essential considerations for individuals with chronic conditions, those requiring frequent medical attention, or those facing emergencies.

Public transportation options in Oxford are, unfortunately, limited. **NJ Transit** does not directly serve the town with bus routes. The closest bus service is located in Hackettstown. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including seniors, low-income residents, and those with disabilities. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a major barrier to healthcare access, potentially exacerbating health disparities within the community.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of any available public transportation is a critical component of this assessment. Without direct NJ Transit bus service, the ADA accessibility of the nearest bus stops becomes a moot point. The lack of accessible transportation options poses a significant challenge for individuals with mobility impairments, making it difficult for them to attend medical appointments, access pharmacies, and receive necessary care.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Oxford can be variable. While these services are generally available, wait times and pricing can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is, therefore, not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive themselves and require assistance getting to appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, placing an additional burden on individuals with limited financial resources.

The availability of these medical transportation services is crucial for residents with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The ability to schedule and access reliable transportation is directly correlated with their ability to maintain their health and well-being. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant barrier to access for some individuals.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Oxford, NJ (ZIP Code 07863) is significantly influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable for some, can be a considerable burden for others, especially those with limited mobility or financial constraints. The lack of robust public transit, coupled with the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, creates significant challenges for a segment of the population.

The absence of readily accessible public transit disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations. Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources are particularly affected by the lack of alternatives to personal vehicles. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting their health outcomes. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach, including exploring options for expanding public transit, incentivizing ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation.

For those **moving to Oxford**, the healthcare landscape should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, assess the proximity of healthcare facilities, and research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision about whether Oxford is the right place to call home.

The quality of healthcare access is a fundamental determinant of overall health and well-being. In Oxford, the current state of transportation infrastructure presents both challenges and opportunities. Improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing options, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation are essential steps toward creating a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for all residents. The "Overall Health Score" for Oxford, NJ, can be improved by addressing these critical needs, ultimately leading to a healthier and more vibrant community.