07931, Far Hills, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 07931, Far Hills, New Jersey is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.92 percent of residents in 07931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morristown Medical Center with a distance of 11.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Far Hills, NJ (ZIP Code 07931)

Far Hills, New Jersey, a bucolic haven nestled in Somerset County, promises a life of tranquility and natural beauty. But beneath the idyllic surface lies a crucial consideration for prospective residents: the accessibility of healthcare. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for this community necessitates a deep dive into the realities of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**. This assessment considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture for anyone **moving to Far Hills**.

The primary concern for residents seeking medical care is the dependence on personal vehicles. Navigating the roads of Far Hills and the surrounding areas is generally manageable, but distance and traffic patterns significantly influence **healthcare access**. Driving to the nearest hospitals and medical centers forms the backbone of the **transportation** landscape.

The most direct route often involves utilizing US-202. This major thoroughfare provides relatively swift access to Somerville, where Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset is located. During off-peak hours, the drive can be accomplished in under 20 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly in the mornings and evenings, the commute can easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, adding significant stress and potentially delaying crucial medical attention. The winding roads of the area, such as Lamington Road and Pottersville Road, offer scenic routes but often involve slower speeds and potential delays due to local traffic.

Another critical route involves I-287, which offers access to hospitals further afield, including Morristown Medical Center, a highly regarded facility. While I-287 provides a high-speed option, the distance from Far Hills to Morristown translates to a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes in ideal conditions. Congestion on I-287, especially around the exits, can further extend travel times, impacting **healthcare access**. The availability of various medical specialists at Morristown Medical Center makes this a popular destination, but the **transportation** time is a significant factor.

Public **transportation** options in Far Hills are limited, representing a significant challenge for those without access to a car. New Jersey Transit provides bus service, but the routes are infrequent and may not directly connect to major medical facilities. The 114 bus line, for instance, offers service to New York City and some local towns, but its usefulness for accessing hospitals is questionable. The lack of frequent service and the potential for multiple transfers can make it a cumbersome and time-consuming option, especially for individuals with mobility issues or urgent medical needs. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a positive aspect, but the overall system's limitations affect **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, the train service on the Gladstone Branch of NJ Transit, while providing access to New York City, does not directly serve any major hospitals. Passengers would need to transfer to other forms of **transportation** upon arrival at the train station, adding to the complexity and travel time. This reliance on multiple modes of **transportation** further complicates **healthcare access** for Far Hills residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public **transportation**. These services are generally available in Far Hills, providing on-demand **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the cost can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent trips. Furthermore, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially delaying access to medical care. The convenience of ride-sharing is tempered by its financial implications and the potential for service disruptions.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for patients with medical needs offer a valuable, albeit often costly, option. Companies such as MedStar and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, making them less accessible for those with limited financial resources. The availability of these specialized services underscores the importance of addressing the broader **transportation** challenges.

Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Far Hills reveals a complex picture. The reliance on personal vehicles, while providing the most direct route to medical facilities, is subject to traffic congestion and distance. Public **transportation** options are limited and often inconvenient. Ride-sharing services offer a degree of flexibility but come with cost and availability concerns. Medical **transportation** services cater to specific needs but can be expensive.

For individuals considering **moving to Far Hills**, the **transportation** landscape should be a primary consideration. The ease of access to medical care is a critical component of overall well-being. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges associated with **healthcare access** necessitate careful planning and consideration. The potential for longer commute times, limited public **transportation**, and the reliance on potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services should be factored into the decision-making process.

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Far Hills, therefore, is moderately positive, but with significant caveats. While quality medical facilities are within reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public **transportation**, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic delays create challenges. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual **transportation** needs and financial resources to ensure they can readily access the medical care they require. The beauty and tranquility of Far Hills must be balanced with a realistic assessment of its **healthcare access** infrastructure.