08050, Manahawkin, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08050, Manahawkin, New Jersey is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.89 percent of residents in 08050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 25.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08050 (Manahawkin, NJ)

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone, particularly those contemplating a move to a new area. This assessment provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for residents of ZIP Code 08050, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services via various transportation methods. This analysis is designed to inform individuals considering moving to Manahawkin, offering a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access within the region.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ is not a single numerical value but rather a synthesis of factors influencing healthcare accessibility. It considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Each element is evaluated to provide a holistic understanding of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

Manahawkin, New Jersey, is a coastal community, and its healthcare accessibility is significantly impacted by the region's road network. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities include the Garden State Parkway, Route 72, and Route 9. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak commuting hours and seasonal tourism.

The closest major hospitals, Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin and Community Medical Center in Toms River, are the primary destinations for emergency care and specialized services. Reaching Southern Ocean Medical Center, located within the ZIP code, is generally straightforward, with travel times varying from a few minutes to around 15 minutes, depending on the specific location within 08050.

Traveling to Community Medical Center in Toms River requires navigating Route 72 and potentially portions of the Garden State Parkway. Under ideal traffic conditions, this drive can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. However, during rush hour or on weekends, the journey can extend significantly, potentially exceeding an hour. This variability in travel time is a critical factor influencing the overall health score.

Other healthcare providers, such as specialist offices and urgent care facilities, are scattered throughout the region. Drive times to these locations vary considerably, depending on their proximity to major roadways and the volume of traffic. Residents should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments and consider the impact on their overall health and well-being.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in the 08050 ZIP code are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Ocean Ride bus service, operated by the Ocean County Department of Transportation, provides some level of public transit. However, routes and frequency are often insufficient to meet the needs of all residents, especially those requiring regular medical appointments.

The primary Ocean Ride routes serving the area are Route 559 and Route 560. Route 559 primarily travels along Route 9, offering access to some healthcare facilities. Route 560 provides service along Route 72. However, both routes have limited schedules, particularly during evenings and weekends. This restricts access for individuals needing to travel outside of typical business hours.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. Ocean Ride buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. The lack of comprehensive public transportation significantly lowers the overall health score for those reliant on public transit. This is a major factor to consider when moving to Manahawkin.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 08050 ZIP code. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. This can make it difficult to secure a ride for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, further impacting their healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for individuals with specific needs. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including Atlantic Ambulance Corp and Bayshore Medical Transport. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport highlights the limitations of the public transportation network and the potential financial burden for some residents. The availability of these services contributes to the overall health score, but their limitations must be acknowledged.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in the 08050 ZIP code is moderately positive. While the presence of Southern Ocean Medical Center within the community offers convenient access to emergency care, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services create challenges.

Drive times to healthcare facilities can be variable, influenced by traffic congestion. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their limitations in terms of cost and availability must be considered. The overall score suggests that residents with personal vehicles generally have better healthcare access than those without.

Individuals considering moving to Manahawkin should carefully assess their transportation needs and the potential impact on their healthcare access. Those reliant on public transportation or facing mobility challenges should factor in the limitations of the existing network. Planning for transportation to medical appointments is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being.

In conclusion, while the 08050 ZIP code offers access to healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents certain challenges. Residents should proactively plan for their healthcare transportation needs, considering all available options and their potential impact on their overall health and well-being. This assessment is designed to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their potential move to Manahawkin. The accessibility of healthcare is a key factor in the quality of life, and understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring that all residents can receive the care they need.