08738, Mantoloking, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08738, Mantoloking, New Jersey is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.19 percent of residents in 08738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 5.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08738 (Mantoloking, NJ)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Mantoloking, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08738), requires a multifaceted analysis, focusing on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to access essential **healthcare access**. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for current residents and those considering **moving to Mantoloking**.

Mantoloking, a picturesque barrier island community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its location, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay, influences the available transportation choices and the distances required to reach medical facilities. The overall health score, therefore, reflects a delicate balance between the idyllic lifestyle and the practical realities of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times: The Dominant Mode**

For most residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to healthcare facilities involves navigating the local road network. The primary artery is the iconic Route 35, a coastal highway that serves as the spine of the barrier island. Travel times vary significantly depending on the destination, time of day, and traffic conditions.

Heading north on Route 35 offers access to healthcare in Point Pleasant Beach, a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes under normal conditions. This includes access to urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices. Further north, within a 30-45 minute drive, lies the Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, a major regional hospital offering a comprehensive range of specialized services.

Southbound on Route 35 provides access to healthcare facilities in Bay Head and Lavallette, typically within a 10-15 minute drive. These communities offer smaller clinics and specialist offices. For more extensive care, a drive of 20-30 minutes south on Route 35 leads to Community Medical Center in Toms River, another significant medical center.

The secondary route, accessing the mainland, involves crossing the Mantoloking Bridge onto Route 528. This route connects to the Garden State Parkway, a major north-south highway. From the Parkway, residents can access healthcare facilities in Brick Township and Toms River, adding approximately 15-20 minutes to the overall travel time. During peak hours, traffic congestion on Route 35 and the Parkway can significantly increase these drive times, impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options are limited in Mantoloking. The New Jersey Transit (NJT) bus system serves the area, but routes are infrequent and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The primary bus route serving the area is the 601, which runs along Route 35. While this route offers connections to other bus lines and the NJT rail system, service frequency is limited, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends.

The 601 bus does offer some ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and potential for long travel times make this a less-than-ideal option for many residents seeking timely healthcare access. For those considering moving to Mantoloking, the limitations of public transit must be carefully considered, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those who do not drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Support**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mantoloking. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While offering a valuable service, medical transport can be costly and may require advance booking. Some of the medical transport brands operating in the area include: Atlantic Ambulance and Care One.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for Mantoloking (ZIP Code 08738) reflects a mixed picture. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak tourist seasons, poses a challenge. The limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services further impact the score.

While the proximity to a variety of healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the accessibility of these facilities is significantly affected by the available transportation options. The community's remoteness, while contributing to its charm, also adds to the complexity of healthcare access.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For current residents and those considering moving to Mantoloking, careful planning is crucial for managing healthcare needs. It is essential to factor in potential travel times, especially during peak hours. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also recommended.

Individuals with mobility issues or those who do not drive should give particularly careful consideration to the transportation challenges. Exploring the possibility of living near essential services or establishing relationships with local transportation providers can enhance healthcare access.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from exploring initiatives to improve public transit options, such as advocating for increased bus service frequency or exploring the feasibility of on-demand transportation services. These efforts would contribute to a higher overall health score and enhance the quality of life for all residents of Mantoloking.