02817, West Greenwich, Rhode Island Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02817, West Greenwich, Rhode Island is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.06 percent of residents in 02817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 19.55 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02817

Considering a move to West Greenwich, Rhode Island, ZIP code 02817, and concerned about healthcare access, especially if Alzheimer's disease is a factor? This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score," evaluating transportation options to medical facilities. This score, though subjective, weighs factors crucial for individuals with cognitive impairments, considering ease of access, travel time, and the availability of specialized transportation.

The score will consider the following:
* **Drive Times:** Travel times to key healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transportation:** Availability and accessibility of public transit.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Options and their suitability.
* **ADA Compliance:** Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
* **Overall Accessibility:** Ease of navigation and overall suitability.

**Drive Times: The Open Road and its Challenges**

West Greenwich, a primarily rural community, presents a unique transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and drive times become a critical factor in healthcare access. The primary routes for accessing medical care involve navigating the state's highway system.

**Route 102** serves as a key artery, connecting West Greenwich to surrounding towns and cities. Traveling north on Route 102, one can reach Kent Hospital in Warwick, a facility that offers comprehensive medical services. The drive, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

**Route 3** provides another route, leading towards Providence. This route offers access to a broader range of healthcare providers, including Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital. The drive, however, is more complex, involving navigating the bustling city streets and potentially encountering heavier traffic. Expect a drive time of 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

**Route 14** offers access to the western areas, including Westerly Hospital, which is further away and can take over an hour to reach.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, long drives can be challenging. The lack of frequent rest stops and the potential for disorientation can exacerbate symptoms. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the need for shorter, less stressful journeys.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the System**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides public transportation services in the state. However, access to public transportation in West Greenwich is limited. The primary routes serving the area are infrequent and may not be the most convenient option for healthcare access.

**Route 14** is the primary bus route that serves West Greenwich. It provides limited service, with buses running on a schedule that may not align with medical appointments. The frequency of service is low, and the routes do not directly connect to major healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a crucial factor. RIPTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited service and potential for long wait times can pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score will consider the availability and accessibility of public transportation, recognizing that it may not be a viable option for many residents.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in West Greenwich can be variable. The reliance on driver availability and the potential for higher costs can be a concern.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. Several companies operate in the area, including:

* **Care Ride:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **MedStar:** Provides medical transportation services.
* **Senior Transportation Services:** Specializes in transportation for seniors.

These services can be a valuable resource for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing safe and reliable transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor.

The Alzheimer's Score will weigh the availability, cost, and suitability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**ADA Compliance: Ensuring Accessibility**

ADA compliance is a critical factor in evaluating transportation options. All RIPTA buses are ADA-compliant, offering wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. Ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles upon request, but availability can be limited. Medical transport services typically provide accessible vehicles.

The Alzheimer's Score will prioritize transportation options that are ADA-compliant, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare services.

**Overall Accessibility: A Holistic Approach**

The Alzheimer's Score is a holistic assessment of transportation options, considering drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing, medical transport, and ADA compliance. It aims to provide a realistic evaluation of healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

**The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP Code 02817:**

Considering the factors discussed, the Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 02817 is moderate. While personal vehicles offer the most direct access to healthcare facilities, the drive times can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing availability may be inconsistent. Medical transport services provide a valuable resource, but the cost can be a barrier.

**Recommendations for Moving to West Greenwich:**

* **Assess personal transportation needs:** Determine if the individual can drive safely or if alternative transportation is required.
* **Explore medical transport services:** Research available services and their costs.
* **Plan for longer travel times:** Account for potential traffic delays and the need for rest stops.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare facilities:** If possible, choose a residence closer to medical providers.
* **Consult with healthcare providers:** Discuss transportation needs and explore available resources.

Moving to West Greenwich requires careful consideration of healthcare access. By understanding the transportation options and planning accordingly, individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain access to essential medical services. The Alzheimer's Score provides a framework for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions.