02777, Swansea, Massachusetts Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 02777, Swansea, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.67 percent of residents in 02777 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 12.28 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swansea, MA (ZIP Code 02777)

Considering a move to Swansea, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02777), and managing arthritis? Evaluating healthcare access and transportation options is crucial. This "Arthritis Score" write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for individuals with mobility limitations, focusing on getting to medical appointments. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport within and around this charming town.

Swansea, nestled in Bristol County, offers a blend of suburban and rural living. Its proximity to Providence, Rhode Island, and Fall River, Massachusetts, expands healthcare choices. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and limited public transportation can pose hurdles for those with arthritis. Let's delve into the specifics.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

The primary roadways impacting healthcare access in Swansea are Route 6, Route 195, and Route 118. Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides direct access to local medical facilities and connects to Fall River. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, a critical factor for individuals with arthritis who may experience pain exacerbation during prolonged sitting.

Route 195, a major interstate, offers faster access to Providence and its extensive medical resources. However, the on-ramps and off-ramps can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Route 118, a more local road, provides access to Swansea's commercial areas and some medical offices.

Drive times to healthcare providers within Swansea are generally manageable, typically under 15 minutes. However, specialists and larger hospitals, especially those in Fall River (like Charlton Memorial Hospital) or Providence (like Rhode Island Hospital or The Miriam Hospital), can require 20-45 minutes of driving, depending on traffic. Remember, weather conditions – snow, ice, or heavy rain – can drastically increase travel times and create additional stress.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation in Swansea is provided by the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA). The SRTA primarily operates bus routes, and while it offers service within Swansea and to Fall River, its coverage is limited. The routes serving Swansea are often infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings.

The SRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route frequency and potential for long wait times can be problematic for those with arthritis. Transfers between routes, especially in inclement weather, can be particularly challenging.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Swansea, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. Ride-sharing costs can also accumulate, becoming a significant expense for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are available in the area. These services, like First Transit or CareRide, often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle. They are usually equipped with wheelchair accessibility. However, these services require pre-booking and may have limited availability, particularly for short-notice appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

Swansea offers some local healthcare options, including primary care physicians, physical therapists, and some specialists. However, for specialized care, such as rheumatology or orthopedic surgery, residents often need to travel to Fall River or Providence.

The availability of appointment slots, particularly for specialists, can be another factor. Waiting times for appointments can be several weeks or even months, which can be detrimental for individuals experiencing acute arthritis symptoms.

**Moving to Swansea: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Swansea with arthritis requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. While the town offers a pleasant living environment, the limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles present challenges.

For individuals with arthritis, the ideal scenario involves having a reliable personal vehicle or access to a caregiver who can provide transportation. Utilizing ride-sharing services or medical transportation can supplement these options.

When choosing a healthcare provider, prioritize those with convenient locations and flexible appointment scheduling. Consider the proximity to specialized medical centers in Fall River or Providence.

**Arthritis Score: A Summary**

The "Arthritis Score" for Swansea, MA (02777) reflects a mixed bag. While the town itself offers a peaceful setting, the transportation infrastructure presents limitations.

* **Drive Times:** Generally manageable within Swansea, but longer for specialized care in Fall River and Providence.
* **Public Transit:** Limited route frequency and potential for long wait times. ADA features are available.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Available, but availability and cost can vary.
* **Medical Transportation:** Offers door-to-door service but requires pre-booking.
* **Healthcare Access:** Some local options, but specialized care often requires travel.

For individuals with arthritis, a move to Swansea necessitates careful planning and a proactive approach to managing transportation and healthcare needs. The availability of a reliable vehicle or access to alternative transportation options is crucial for maintaining healthcare access and quality of life. Careful research of healthcare providers, taking into account their location, appointment availability, and accessibility features, is also essential.