08753, Toms River, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08753, Toms River, New Jersey is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.27 percent of residents in 08753 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ocean Medical Center with a distance of 7.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08753 (Toms River, NJ)

This report provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment for healthcare access within ZIP Code 08753, encompassing Toms River, New Jersey. The score considers various transportation modalities, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all crucial components of healthcare access. This analysis aims to inform individuals considering moving to Toms River, providing insights into the ease with which they can reach medical facilities.

The “Overall Health Score” is a composite metric, weighing factors like travel time, service frequency, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the availability of different transportation alternatives. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare. This score also acknowledges the importance of geographical factors, such as the concentration of healthcare providers within the area and the efficiency of the local transportation network.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

Toms River, situated in Ocean County, presents a transportation landscape dominated by personal vehicles. The primary roadways serving the area are the Garden State Parkway and Route 37. These highways are essential arteries for accessing healthcare facilities, with the Garden State Parkway providing north-south connectivity and Route 37 serving as a critical east-west thoroughfare.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on location within 08753 and the specific destination. For instance, Community Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is centrally located, making it accessible within 10-15 minutes for many residents. However, reaching facilities further afield, such as those in Brick Township or Manahawkin, may extend travel times to 20-30 minutes, particularly during peak traffic hours. The efficiency of travel is significantly impacted by traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, which can add considerable time to commutes.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Toms River is primarily provided by Ocean Ride, the Ocean County Department of Transportation. Ocean Ride offers several bus routes that connect various points within the county, including key healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

Several routes, such as Route 10 and Route 20, serve areas within 08753 and offer connections to medical centers. It is crucial to note that while Ocean Ride buses are ADA-accessible, the overall coverage and frequency of service may pose challenges for some residents, especially those living in more remote areas or with mobility limitations. The reliance on fixed routes also limits flexibility compared to personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Toms River, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, potentially reducing travel times and offering door-to-door service. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

Medical transport services are also available for individuals who require specialized assistance. Companies like MedStar and Liberty Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, type of service required, and insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access and the “Overall Health Score”:**

The “Overall Health Score” for 08753 reflects a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. The area benefits from the presence of major healthcare facilities like Community Medical Center, which is relatively accessible by car. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit contribute to some challenges.

The score is positively influenced by the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options, which enhance accessibility for those who may not drive or have other transportation limitations. The overall score is negatively impacted by the potential for traffic congestion, the limited frequency of public transit routes, and the geographical distribution of healthcare providers.

**Impact of Transportation on Health Outcomes:**

Transportation plays a crucial role in determining health outcomes. Difficulty accessing healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and poorer health management. Individuals who face transportation barriers may be less likely to seek preventive care, leading to more serious health problems.

The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly influence the ability of residents to access necessary medical services, including primary care, specialist appointments, and emergency care. The “Overall Health Score” aims to highlight these connections, underscoring the importance of a robust and accessible transportation network for maintaining community health.

**Considerations for Moving to Toms River:**

Individuals considering moving to Toms River should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. If they rely on public transit or have mobility limitations, they should assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities via Ocean Ride routes and the availability of medical transport services.

Those who drive should consider the potential for traffic congestion and factor in travel times when planning medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services provides an additional layer of flexibility. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live and how to access healthcare.

**Future Improvements:**

Enhancements to the transportation infrastructure could significantly improve the “Overall Health Score” for 08753. Increasing the frequency of Ocean Ride bus routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, would expand access to healthcare for a broader segment of the population.

Investing in infrastructure improvements to reduce traffic congestion, especially on Route 37 and the Garden State Parkway, would also improve access times. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services and medical transport options through public awareness campaigns could further enhance accessibility for those who need it most.

**Conclusion:**

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in 08753 reflects a community with a mix of strengths and challenges. While the presence of major healthcare facilities and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are positive factors, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for traffic congestion present challenges. Individuals considering moving to Toms River should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences, considering the various options available to ensure they can access the healthcare services they require. Continuous efforts to improve the transportation network will be crucial for enhancing the overall health and well-being of the community.