08730, Brielle, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08730, Brielle, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.03 percent of residents in 08730 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 4.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08730

ZIP Code 08730, encompassing the charming borough of Brielle, New Jersey, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning healthcare access. Proximity to quality medical facilities is a cornerstone of well-being, and the ease with which residents can reach them significantly impacts their health outcomes. This analysis delves into the multifaceted aspects of transportation options available to residents of Brielle, offering a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on the accessibility and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers.

Brielle, a picturesque coastal community, is primarily reliant on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for navigating the area are the Garden State Parkway and Route 35. The Garden State Parkway provides a swift north-south corridor, connecting Brielle to hospitals in Toms River, and further north to Red Bank and Long Branch. Route 35, a more local thoroughfare, offers direct access to medical offices and urgent care facilities in neighboring towns like Point Pleasant Beach and Manasquan.

Drive times, naturally, fluctuate based on traffic conditions, especially during peak commuting hours and summer weekends. However, a typical drive to the closest hospitals, such as Ocean Medical Center in Brick Township, via the Garden State Parkway, could take approximately 20-30 minutes under normal circumstances. Reaching Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, a more specialized facility, might require a 45-minute drive, depending on traffic flow. Access to healthcare is a vital component of overall health, and drive times are a major factor.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, which presents a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles. New Jersey Transit (NJT) operates bus routes, but their coverage in Brielle is sparse. Route 830, for instance, offers service along Route 35, providing a connection to neighboring towns. However, the frequency of these buses is often limited, and the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. ADA accessibility on these buses is available, but the overall reliability of public transit for healthcare appointments remains a concern.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation solution. Their availability in Brielle is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can impact affordability. These services offer a convenient way to reach healthcare providers, especially for those unable to drive or utilize public transportation. However, the cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with chronic health conditions requiring regular medical attention.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like Senior Transportation Services and other local providers specialize in transporting individuals with mobility limitations or other health concerns. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle medical equipment. While these services offer a valuable resource, their availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required.

The 'Overall Health Score' for commuting to healthcare in 08730 is, therefore, moderately impacted by the limitations of transportation options. While the area boasts relatively short drive times to several healthcare facilities, the lack of robust public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents. The availability of medical transportation services offers a vital lifeline for those with specific needs, but their accessibility and affordability are critical factors.

For individuals considering moving to Brielle, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those reliant on public transportation or with limited mobility may find healthcare access more challenging. However, the proximity to various medical facilities and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer viable alternatives.

The overall health of a community is intricately linked to its healthcare access. In Brielle, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable costs of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create a nuanced picture. The 'Overall Health Score' reflects this complexity, acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit options, subsidized ride-sharing programs, and expanded medical transportation services would significantly enhance healthcare access and contribute to a healthier community.