08810, Dayton, New Jersey Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 08810, Dayton, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.19 percent of residents in 08810 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jfk Medical Center with a distance of 14.92 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 08810**

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 08810, encompassing the town of Dayton, requires a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This analysis considers the ease of transportation, a critical factor in determining the quality of healthcare access. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably significantly impacts health outcomes.

Dayton, New Jersey, situated within ZIP Code 08810, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its location offers a blend of suburban accessibility and proximity to major roadways. Understanding the available transportation options is crucial for evaluating healthcare access. This write-up will delve into the various modes of transportation, including driving times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, to provide a nuanced understanding of the overall health score for this community.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The proximity of major roadways like the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) and Route 18 plays a significant role. Access to these highways is generally good, providing relatively quick routes to hospitals and medical centers in surrounding areas.

Driving to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, a major regional medical center, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating Route 130, a busy thoroughfare, and connecting to Route 18 or the Turnpike. The drive to CentraState Medical Center in Freehold, another prominent healthcare provider, is slightly longer, averaging 35-45 minutes, primarily via Route 18.

Local roads like Davidson’s Mill Road and Georges Road offer alternative routes, but these are often subject to congestion during peak hours. The overall driving experience in Dayton is generally manageable, but traffic conditions can significantly impact commute times, especially during rush hour. This factor must be considered when evaluating healthcare access.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in the area are primarily provided by NJ Transit. The availability of public transit can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive.

The primary bus routes serving Dayton include the 600 and 605 lines. These buses provide connections to major transportation hubs, including the New Brunswick train station, which offers access to the Northeast Corridor rail line. The 600 bus, in particular, is a crucial link, connecting Dayton to the New Brunswick area, where numerous healthcare facilities are located.

However, public transit in this area presents some limitations. Service frequency, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, may be less frequent. This can pose challenges for individuals needing timely access to medical appointments or emergency care. Additionally, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. NJ Transit generally provides ADA-compliant buses, but it's essential to confirm the specific features of each route.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Dayton area. These services offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for those who cannot drive or prefer not to drive.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the cost. Despite these potential drawbacks, ride-sharing offers a valuable transportation option, enhancing healthcare access for many residents.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often cater to those requiring assistance with mobility or those unable to use standard transportation. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, offering services such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.

The availability of medical transport services is crucial for ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations. These services can be particularly important for individuals with disabilities, those recovering from surgery, or those needing specialized medical care. The cost and availability of these services should be carefully considered when assessing the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 08810 is directly influenced by the ease of healthcare access. The availability of diverse transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, plays a vital role in determining this score.

The relatively short driving times to major hospitals and medical centers, facilitated by access to highways like the Turnpike and Route 18, contribute positively to the health score. The presence of public transit, particularly the 600 and 605 bus routes, provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing services further enhance accessibility, offering on-demand transportation. The availability of medical transport services caters to the needs of vulnerable populations.

However, certain factors may negatively impact the overall health score. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can increase commute times. Limited public transit frequency, particularly during off-peak hours, can pose challenges. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a barrier for some individuals.

**Moving to Dayton and Healthcare Considerations**

For those considering moving to Dayton, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. The availability of diverse transportation options is a significant advantage. However, potential residents should carefully assess their individual transportation needs and preferences.

If you rely on public transit, it's essential to consider the frequency and accessibility of bus routes. If you prefer driving, factor in potential traffic delays. If you anticipate needing ride-sharing or medical transport, research the availability and cost of these services.

Ultimately, the overall health score in Dayton reflects a balanced picture. The community benefits from relatively good access to healthcare facilities, supported by a range of transportation options. However, potential residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances to ensure they can effectively access the healthcare services they require.