02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.12 percent of residents in 02791 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 26.70 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westport Point (02791)

The sun-drenched shores and historic charm of Westport Point, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02791), beckon with a promise of tranquility. Yet, for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the idyllic setting demands a critical examination of *healthcare access* and *transportation* options. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape within and around Westport Point, particularly focusing on the crucial element of getting to appointments.

The primary concern revolves around the practicalities of *transportation*. As cognitive abilities decline, the ability to drive safely diminishes, necessitating alternative modes of travel. The geography of Westport Point, a coastal community, presents unique considerations. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Fall River and New Bedford, each presenting distinct challenges in terms of travel time and available services.

Driving, when possible, offers the most direct route. From Westport Point, the primary artery is Route 88, a scenic but often congested road. Reaching Fall River's major hospitals, such as Saint Anne's Hospital, involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily utilizes Route 88 to Route 195 West, then onto various local roads. New Bedford, home to major healthcare providers like Southcoast Health's St. Luke's Hospital, is a similar distance, requiring a drive time of roughly 25-35 minutes, again primarily via Route 88 and Route 195 East. The fluctuating traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, should be factored in when planning appointments.

Public *transportation* options are limited in Westport Point. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but routes within the area are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The SRTA Route 10, for example, travels between Fall River and New Bedford, passing through Westport. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with Alzheimer's, should be confirmed in advance. Detailed route maps and schedules are available on the SRTA website.

The SRTA website provides information on ADA accessibility, including features like ramps and priority seating. However, the limited frequency of routes and the potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments. The stress of navigating unfamiliar routes and schedules can exacerbate symptoms of Alzheimer's, making public *transportation* a less-than-ideal solution for many.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another *transportation* avenue. While readily available in the area, their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited during peak hours or in inclement weather. The ability to communicate clearly with the driver about the destination and any specific needs of the passenger is also critical. Furthermore, the cost of multiple ride-share trips per week can quickly become a financial burden.

Medical *transportation* services specifically cater to individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedStar, American Medical Response (AMR), and other local providers offer non-emergency medical *transportation*, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public *transportation*. However, they offer the advantage of trained personnel and specialized equipment, providing a safer and more comfortable experience for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The availability of these services needs to be carefully assessed. The quality of care provided by the drivers, their ability to communicate effectively with individuals with cognitive impairments, and their knowledge of local medical facilities are all vital factors. Confirming the availability of the desired services, especially for appointments scheduled in advance, is crucial.

The accessibility of *healthcare access* within Westport Point itself is another factor. While the town has a few primary care physicians, specialized geriatric care and memory care specialists may require travel to Fall River or New Bedford. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of *transportation* to ensure timely access to appointments and treatments.

The process of *moving to Westport Point* requires a thorough evaluation of these *transportation* and *healthcare access* factors. Families considering relocating to the area should proactively research available medical services, assess the feasibility of different *transportation* options, and consider the potential financial implications of these choices.

The Alzheimer's Score for Westport Point reflects a mixed picture. While the scenic beauty and close-knit community offer undeniable appeal, the limited *transportation* options and the distance to major medical facilities present significant challenges. The reliance on driving, the infrequent public *transportation*, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical *transportation* all contribute to a moderate level of difficulty in accessing *healthcare access*.

Families should prioritize a detailed assessment of their loved one's cognitive and physical abilities, as well as a realistic evaluation of their *transportation* needs. Planning ahead, researching available resources, and building a strong support network are essential for ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their *healthcare access* and quality of life in Westport Point. The beauty of the location should be weighed against the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape.