02762, Plainville, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02762, Plainville, Massachusetts is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.06 percent of residents in 02762 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 13.90 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plainville, MA (ZIP Code 02762)

Considering a move to Plainville, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02762), and concerned about healthcare access for yourself or a loved one facing Alzheimer's disease? This write-up, an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, analyzes the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities, offering a detailed perspective on the challenges and opportunities for residents. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, all vital considerations for ensuring timely and reliable access to care. This is especially crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's, who often require frequent appointments and face cognitive and physical limitations impacting their ability to navigate transportation independently.

Plainville, a charming town nestled in Bristol County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to larger urban centers. However, the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for those with Alzheimer's, demands a thorough examination of the available transportation options. The ability to reach specialists, attend therapy sessions, and access emergency care is paramount.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation in Plainville is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is therefore critical.

For primary care, the **Plainville Medical Associates**, located within the town, is a convenient option. Reaching this facility typically involves a short drive, utilizing local roads like **South Street** and **West Bacon Street**. Drive times are generally less than 10 minutes, making it easily accessible for residents.

For specialized care, the journey extends. **Sturdy Memorial Hospital** in Attleboro is a crucial regional healthcare provider. The drive to Sturdy Memorial Hospital, accessible via **I-495 North** and **Route 1A**, typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but congestion during peak hours could impact travel times.

**Rhode Island Hospital** in Providence, RI, offers specialized neurological and geriatric care. The drive, primarily via **I-95 South**, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey is longer and necessitates navigating a major interstate, which can be stressful for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Plainville are limited. The **Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)** does not directly serve Plainville with bus routes. The nearest MBTA Commuter Rail station is in Mansfield, about a 10-15 minute drive away, offering access to Boston. However, utilizing the Commuter Rail for healthcare appointments is impractical, as it requires transferring to other modes of transportation once in Boston.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's, especially those who cannot drive. For those who qualify, the MBTA offers **The Ride**, a paratransit service designed to provide door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities. However, demand for The Ride is high, and booking appointments in advance is essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. Availability in Plainville is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could increase costs. Ride-sharing services can be a valuable resource for short trips to local appointments or for reaching the Mansfield Commuter Rail station. However, caregivers must consider the need for assistance getting in and out of vehicles and the potential for confusion or anxiety for the individual with Alzheimer's.

Medical transport services specialize in transporting individuals with medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers familiar with assisting individuals with mobility issues or cognitive impairments. They require advance booking and are typically more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the complexities of transportation are amplified. Memory loss, confusion, and physical limitations can make navigating unfamiliar environments, waiting for public transit, or coordinating ride-sharing services incredibly challenging. Caregivers must carefully assess the individual's cognitive and physical abilities when choosing transportation options.

**Moving to Plainville: A Balanced Perspective:**

Plainville offers a desirable quality of life, but healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's requires careful planning. The town's proximity to larger cities and healthcare facilities is advantageous, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges.

Before moving, families should:

* **Assess Healthcare Needs:** Determine the frequency and types of medical appointments required.
* **Evaluate Transportation Options:** Consider the individual's ability to drive, the availability of caregivers, and the feasibility of ride-sharing or medical transport services.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify primary care physicians, specialists, and support services located within a reasonable distance.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Establish a clear plan for emergency medical transportation.

By carefully considering these factors, families can make informed decisions about moving to Plainville and ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's have access to the healthcare they need. The Alzheimer's Score for Plainville reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a pleasant living environment, the lack of robust public transportation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport, adding complexity to healthcare access. Planning and preparedness are key to ensuring a smooth transition and providing the best possible care for those living with Alzheimer's. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a safety net, but the cost and advance booking requirements must be factored into the overall assessment.