08757, Toms River, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08757, Toms River, New Jersey is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.41 percent of residents in 08757 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus with a distance of 7.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08757 (Toms River, NJ)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access essential services, most notably healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 08757, Toms River, New Jersey, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. This score considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, offering a comprehensive view for those considering moving to Toms River and prioritizing healthcare access.

Toms River, a bustling coastal community, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the town boasts a suburban character, its sprawling nature and reliance on personal vehicles influence healthcare accessibility. The "Overall Health Score" for 08757 reflects this reality, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in the transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Toms River remains the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode directly impacts the health score. The major thoroughfare, the Garden State Parkway, acts as the primary north-south artery, connecting Toms River to surrounding areas and healthcare facilities. Access points are strategically located, but congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend drive times.

Traveling east-west, Route 37 provides a crucial link, offering access to healthcare providers and commercial centers. Route 37 can also be subject to heavy traffic, especially during the summer months when the Jersey Shore attracts throngs of visitors. Route 70 and Route 9 also play important roles in connecting residents to healthcare, but these roads also experience traffic bottlenecks, especially during rush hour.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within Toms River itself are generally manageable. Community Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is centrally located, making it accessible from most areas of the town within a reasonable timeframe. However, specialized care or facilities outside of Toms River, such as those in neighboring towns, could require longer commutes, particularly during periods of heavy traffic. The "Overall Health Score" is influenced by these potential delays.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

Public transportation options in Toms River are available, although they are less extensive than in more urban areas. Ocean Ride, the county's public transit system, offers bus routes that serve various parts of Toms River and connect to neighboring communities. Several routes, including those numbered 559 and 560, provide access to healthcare facilities.

The accessibility of these routes is a critical factor in the "Overall Health Score." While Ocean Ride strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and route planning, the frequency of service and the geographical coverage of routes can limit accessibility for some residents. The availability of public transit provides a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or prefer not to, especially for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in Toms River, offering another transportation alternative. These services can be particularly beneficial for those who need immediate access to healthcare or who prefer the convenience of door-to-door transportation. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services directly impact the "Overall Health Score," as they provide a flexible option for accessing medical care.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or requiring specialized assistance, are also available in Toms River. Companies like MedStar and others offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are vital for individuals who cannot use public transit or ride-sharing and require specialized assistance to reach their appointments. The availability of these services contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score," ensuring that individuals with specific needs can access healthcare.

**The "Overall Health Score" – A Holistic View**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 08757 is moderately positive. The availability of multiple transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides a safety net for residents. However, the score is tempered by the limitations of each mode. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and summer months, can significantly increase drive times. The coverage and frequency of public transit routes could be improved, and the cost of ride-sharing services might be prohibitive for some residents.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities within Toms River is generally good, but access to specialized care outside the town may require longer commutes. The "Overall Health Score" reflects a community that strives to provide healthcare access, but improvements in transportation infrastructure and services could further enhance the health and well-being of its residents.

**Key Considerations for Moving to Toms River**

For those considering moving to Toms River, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable framework for evaluating the ease of accessing healthcare. Prospective residents should consider their individual transportation needs, including their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their potential need for ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Careful consideration should be given to the location of healthcare facilities relative to potential residences. Proximity to major roadways and public transit routes can significantly impact the convenience of accessing medical care. The availability of healthcare services in the immediate vicinity of a potential home is a key factor in the "Overall Health Score."

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 08757 reflects a community that offers a reasonable level of healthcare access through a combination of transportation options. While improvements are always possible, the existing infrastructure provides a solid foundation for residents to receive the medical care they need. Moving to Toms River, therefore, presents a positive outlook for healthcare access, particularly when combined with careful planning and consideration of individual transportation needs. The town's commitment to healthcare access is a significant factor in its overall appeal.