08736, Manasquan, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08736, Manasquan, New Jersey is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.35 percent of residents in 08736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 4.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08736 (Manasquan, NJ)

The picturesque coastal community of Manasquan, New Jersey, nestled within ZIP code 08736, offers a desirable lifestyle. However, assessing overall health necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, particularly the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents, considering the spectrum of transportation options available for accessing vital healthcare services. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Manasquan.

The primary factor influencing the "Overall Health Score" is the geographical distribution of healthcare providers relative to residential areas. Manasquan itself boasts a few local practices, including primary care physicians, dentists, and specialists. However, for more complex medical needs, residents often need to travel to larger hospitals and specialized clinics located outside the immediate vicinity. This necessitates a careful examination of transportation infrastructure and available services.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 08736 is personal vehicles. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours and seasonal influxes of tourists. The primary arteries for travel are the Garden State Parkway and Route 35.

Traveling north on the Garden State Parkway offers relatively direct access to hospitals in the northern Monmouth County area, such as Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, a journey of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading south on the Parkway provides access to hospitals in Ocean County, such as Community Medical Center in Toms River, a trip that could take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour or more. Route 35, while offering more direct access to local practices, can become congested, especially near bridges and during rush hour.

Navigating these roads requires careful planning. Residents should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments, especially for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent visits. The "Overall Health Score" is somewhat diminished by the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for unpredictable travel times.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Public transportation options in the Manasquan area offer an alternative, though their utility for healthcare access is somewhat limited. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service, with routes that can connect residents to nearby towns and hospitals.

The primary bus route serving Manasquan is the 317, which travels along Route 35 and provides connections to other routes. However, the frequency of these buses can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit is generally longer than driving, potentially adding significant time to a healthcare visit.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. NJT buses are equipped with features like ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the potential for transfers can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations. The "Overall Health Score" is moderately impacted by the limitations of public transit, particularly for individuals with mobility concerns.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services are readily available in the Manasquan area and provide door-to-door transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services are essential for those who cannot drive or use public transit due to physical limitations or medical conditions. Several reputable medical transport brands operate in the area, offering a range of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services contribute positively to the "Overall Health Score," providing crucial support for vulnerable populations.

**Specifics on Medical Transport:**

Several medical transport providers serve the 08736 area. Companies like Atlantic Ambulance and MONOC (Monmouth Ocean Hospital Service Corporation) provide emergency and non-emergency transportation. For individuals requiring specialized medical attention during transport, these services offer trained medical professionals.

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services are also available, often catering to individuals needing assistance with routine medical appointments. These services may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. It's important for residents to research and identify the NEMT providers that accept their insurance plans.

**Impact on the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for 08736 is influenced by a combination of factors. The availability of personal vehicles provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, but the reliance on driving introduces potential challenges, particularly concerning traffic and travel times. Public transit offers an alternative, but its limited frequency and longer travel times reduce its overall utility. Ride-sharing services provide convenience but can be cost-prohibitive for some. Medical transport services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, significantly enhancing their access to healthcare.

The "Overall Health Score" is thus a nuanced assessment. While the community offers a pleasant living environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services present challenges to healthcare access. The availability of medical transport services helps mitigate these challenges, but the overall score is still somewhat impacted by the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities and the associated transportation demands.

**Recommendations for Enhancing the "Overall Health Score":**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and make moving to Manasquan more appealing, several steps can be taken. Investing in improved public transportation infrastructure, including increased bus frequency and expanded routes, would benefit the community. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could also enhance access. Furthermore, expanding the availability of local healthcare services, such as urgent care centers and specialized clinics, would reduce the need for long-distance travel.

Finally, educating residents about the available medical transport services and ensuring that these services are readily accessible and affordable is paramount. By addressing these transportation and healthcare access challenges, the community can significantly improve its "Overall Health Score" and create a healthier environment for all residents. This is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to this beautiful coastal town.