02790, Westport, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02790, Westport, Massachusetts is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.20 percent of residents in 02790 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 21.69 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westport, MA (ZIP Code 02790)

The tranquil coastal town of Westport, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02790), offers a serene backdrop for life, yet for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the reality of *healthcare access* and *transportation* becomes a critical consideration. This write-up provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents needing specialized care and regular medical appointments. We'll explore the landscape of *transportation* options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, to help inform decisions about *moving to Westport* or remaining in the community.

Westport’s geographical layout presents both advantages and disadvantages. Its proximity to larger cities like Fall River and New Bedford offers access to specialized medical facilities. However, its rural character can make *transportation* to and from appointments a significant hurdle, especially for those with cognitive impairments. The Alzheimer's Score considers these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and the available resources.

**Drive Times: The Road Ahead**

For those who drive, the primary routes for accessing healthcare in the surrounding areas are Route 6, Route 88, and Interstate 195 (I-195). Traveling to the major hospitals and specialized care centers often involves navigating these roads, each presenting its own set of considerations.

* **To Charlton Memorial Hospital (Fall River):** A trip to Charlton Memorial Hospital, a crucial healthcare provider, typically involves traveling east on Route 6. The drive is usually around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. However, rush hour can significantly extend this time, particularly during the morning and evening commutes.

* **To St. Luke's Hospital (New Bedford):** Heading south on Route 88 and then east on I-195 leads to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford. This journey takes approximately 20-35 minutes, also contingent on traffic conditions. I-195 can experience congestion, especially near exits and during peak hours.

* **To Other Specialist Clinics:** Accessing specialized clinics and doctor's offices scattered throughout the region requires careful planning. Drive times can vary considerably, often ranging from 15 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the location and the time of day.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the stress of navigating traffic, understanding complex road signs, and maintaining focus while driving can be overwhelming and unsafe. Therefore, alternative *transportation* options become increasingly vital.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

The availability of public *transportation* in Westport is limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

* **SRTA Route Coverage:** SRTA operates several routes that may pass through Westport or connect to nearby towns. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent.

* **ADA Accessibility:** SRTA buses are equipped with accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. However, the overall coverage and frequency of service can be insufficient for reliable access to healthcare.

* **Route Planning Challenges:** Navigating the SRTA system requires careful route planning and transfers, which can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments. The need to understand schedules, locate bus stops, and manage transfers adds complexity to the *transportation* process.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services and specialized medical *transportation* providers offer alternative *transportation* solutions, yet their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

* **Ride-Sharing Services:** Uber and Lyft operate in the Westport area, providing on-demand *transportation*. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, making it a potentially expensive option for frequent medical appointments.

* **Medical Transport Services:** Several medical *transportation* providers specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and trained staff to support passengers with medical needs. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly.

* **Booking and Coordination:** Coordinating ride-sharing or medical *transportation* requires advanced planning and clear communication. Individuals with Alzheimer's may need assistance from family members, caregivers, or healthcare professionals to schedule and manage their rides.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

Westport's location provides access to a range of healthcare facilities, but the ability to reach them is a critical factor.

* **Local Physician Practices:** Westport has local physician practices that provide primary care services. However, access to specialized care often requires travel to hospitals or clinics in neighboring cities.

* **Specialized Care Centers:** The surrounding areas offer specialized care centers for Alzheimer's and dementia. These centers provide diagnostic services, treatment, and support for individuals and their families. However, *transportation* to these centers is essential.

* **Home Healthcare Services:** Home healthcare services can provide in-home care and support, reducing the need for frequent travel to medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of home healthcare services vary.

**Alzheimer's Score: A Summary**

The Alzheimer's Score for *healthcare access* and *transportation* in Westport (ZIP Code 02790) reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a peaceful environment and access to some healthcare resources, the limitations in *transportation* options pose significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's.

* **Drive Times:** Drive times to major hospitals and clinics can be manageable, but traffic and the complexities of driving can create difficulties.

* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options require careful planning and may not be reliable.

* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services offer alternatives, but availability, cost, and coordination are factors.

* **Healthcare Access:** Access to specialized care and home healthcare services is available, but *transportation* is a key factor in utilizing these resources.

**Recommendations for Westport Residents**

For individuals and families considering *moving to Westport* or currently residing in the area, the following recommendations are crucial:

1. **Assess *Transportation* Needs:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive, the availability of family support, and the need for alternative *transportation* options.

2. **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Research and identify reliable ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* providers in the area.

3. **Utilize Home Healthcare Services:** Consider home healthcare services to reduce the need for frequent travel.

4. **Plan for Appointment Scheduling:** Develop a system for scheduling appointments and coordinating *transportation*, involving family members, caregivers, or healthcare professionals.

5. **Advocate for Improved Services:** Support initiatives to improve public *transportation* and expand access to medical *transportation* services in the community.

The Alzheimer's Score assessment highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the *transportation* and *healthcare access* landscape in Westport. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals and families can make informed decisions and ensure the best possible care for those living with Alzheimer's.