08722, Beachwood, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08722, Beachwood, New Jersey is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.77 percent of residents in 08722 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 9.85 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08722 (Beachwood, NJ)

This assessment analyzes the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare facilities from Beachwood, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08722), focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. Healthcare access is a cornerstone of well-being, and the ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options, offering a comprehensive understanding for residents and those **moving to Beachwood**.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Beachwood is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's layout and the location of healthcare providers necessitate car travel for the majority of residents. Driving times are significantly affected by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours and seasonal influxes of tourists.

Navigating the roadways of Beachwood and surrounding areas is a crucial aspect of **transportation** planning. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist practices located further afield. However, the Parkway can experience heavy congestion, especially during summer weekends when shore traffic surges.

Route 9, another critical thoroughfare, provides direct access to many local medical facilities. While Route 9 offers convenient access, it is often plagued by stop-and-go traffic, especially near commercial centers and intersections. The speed limits on Route 9 fluctuate, adding to the variability of travel times.

Local roads, such as Pinewood Road and Atlantic City Boulevard, offer alternative routes, but they are often narrower and more susceptible to congestion. These roads are particularly useful for accessing urgent care facilities and smaller medical offices within the immediate vicinity of Beachwood.

The average drive time to the nearest hospital, Community Medical Center in Toms River, is approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour or peak tourist season, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or longer. Accessing specialist care, often located further away in cities like Red Bank or Long Branch, can involve drive times of an hour or more, depending on traffic and the specific location.

Public transit options in Beachwood are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Ocean Ride bus system, operated by the Ocean County Department of Transportation, provides some service within the county, including routes that connect to healthcare facilities.

Several Ocean Ride routes serve areas near Beachwood, but the frequency of service is relatively low, and the routes may not directly connect to all medical providers. This limited availability can make public transit a less attractive option for urgent medical needs or for individuals with mobility limitations.

The Ocean Ride buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the longer travel times and potential for transfers can still pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility or those needing prompt medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or without access to a personal vehicle. The availability of ride-sharing services in Beachwood is generally good, with relatively short wait times.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The price of a ride can vary depending on demand, time of day, and distance, potentially making it an expensive option for regular healthcare visits.

Specialized medical transportation services are available for individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transportation. These services are typically provided by private companies and can be arranged through healthcare providers or directly by patients.

Medical transport services offer a vital lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations, but they often come with a higher cost than other transportation options. The availability and responsiveness of these services are crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care for vulnerable populations.

Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including Atlantic Ambulance and Quality Medical Transport. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel on board, ensuring the safety and comfort of patients during their journeys.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Beachwood, NJ (08722) is moderately impacted by the challenges associated with **transportation**. While the town offers several healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers for some residents.

Drive times to hospitals and specialist practices are generally reasonable, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons. The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transportation offers additional options, but the cost and availability of these services can vary.

The limited public transit options, coupled with the dependence on private vehicles, can disproportionately affect individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a car, and those who are economically disadvantaged. These factors can contribute to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially impacting overall health outcomes.

For individuals **moving to Beachwood**, it is essential to carefully consider the transportation options available and their impact on healthcare access. Researching the location of medical providers, assessing the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, and considering the potential costs of transportation are crucial steps in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, while Beachwood offers access to a range of healthcare providers, the transportation infrastructure presents certain challenges. Improving public transit options, promoting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation are crucial steps in enhancing healthcare access and promoting the overall health and well-being of the community. The ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, and addressing the transportation barriers in Beachwood is essential for creating a healthier community.