02720, Fall River, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02720, Fall River, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.28 percent of residents in 02720 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 1.28 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fall River (ZIP Code 02720)

Considering a move to Fall River, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02720)? This assessment explores healthcare access specifically for individuals managing Alzheimer's disease, focusing on transportation options. The ability to reach medical appointments promptly and safely is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" evaluates the complexities of navigating healthcare within this city, providing a realistic picture of available resources.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Fall River, and indeed the entire region, is the presence of the **Charlton Memorial Hospital**, a primary destination for specialized Alzheimer's care. This hospital, situated within the city limits, offers neurology services and potential access to clinical trials. However, the ease of reaching this critical resource is heavily influenced by transportation.

**Driving the Landscape:**

For those who can drive, the road network is a significant factor. The primary artery is **Interstate 195 (I-195)**, which bisects Fall River. Accessing Charlton Memorial Hospital from most locations within the city via I-195 is generally straightforward. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can add significant time to the commute, increasing stress for both the patient and caregiver.

Beyond I-195, **Route 6** and **Route 138** serve as vital secondary routes. Route 6, running east-west, provides access to various parts of the city and connects to neighboring towns. Route 138, a north-south thoroughfare, offers another option for reaching the hospital, though it can be more congested in certain areas.

The drive times, of course, vary. From the eastern sections of Fall River, a drive to Charlton Memorial Hospital on I-195 might take 10-15 minutes in off-peak hours. From the western areas, the same journey could extend to 20-30 minutes, factoring in traffic and potential detours. Careful planning and awareness of traffic patterns are crucial.

**Public Transit: A Challenging Terrain:**

Public transportation in Fall River, managed by the **Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA)**, presents a more complex picture. SRTA provides bus service throughout the city and surrounding areas. Several routes serve the vicinity of Charlton Memorial Hospital, including routes 1, 2, and 5.

However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited. This means longer wait times and potentially extended travel durations. Furthermore, the availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and audio announcements, is essential for individuals with mobility challenges. While SRTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, it's crucial to confirm the specific features of a particular bus route before relying on it.

The SRTA website offers detailed route maps and schedules, but navigating these resources can be challenging for those with cognitive impairments. A caregiver's assistance is often necessary to plan and execute a public transit journey. Healthcare access, therefore, becomes intertwined with the ability to understand and utilize the public transportation system.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options and Limitations:**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in Fall River. They offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those who cannot drive or find public transportation too difficult. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas, can be inconsistent.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, individuals with Alzheimer's may require assistance from the driver, which might not always be readily available. Careful consideration of these factors is essential.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the Fall River area, including **Care Ride** and **Medical Transportation Services**. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including help getting in and out of the vehicle. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Synthesis:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access in Fall River (02720) is nuanced. While Charlton Memorial Hospital provides a crucial healthcare resource, the transportation landscape presents challenges. Driving offers the most direct route, but traffic and the patient's ability to drive must be considered. Public transit provides an alternative, but its limitations in frequency and accessibility can be problematic. Ride-sharing and medical transport offer solutions, but cost and availability remain potential barriers.

Moving to Fall River requires a thorough assessment of the individual's needs and capabilities. The caregiver's role is crucial in planning transportation, scheduling appointments, and ensuring the patient's safety and comfort. Careful consideration of all available options is essential to optimize healthcare access and promote the best possible quality of life.

The ability to navigate these complexities significantly impacts the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's. The "Alzheimer's Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a supportive network to ensure effective healthcare access within the context of Fall River's transportation infrastructure. This assessment is not a definitive judgment but a guide to understanding the challenges and opportunities in this specific geographic location.