Asthma Score

01068, Oakham, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

Average Rating: 0.0 / 5 stars

0 Reviews

Health Scores

Travel Score in 01068, Oakham, Massachusetts

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 01068, Oakham, Massachusetts is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.61 percent of residents in 01068 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent Hospital with a distance of 14.19 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 01068, Oakham, Massachusetts

Asthma Score 92
People Score 74
Provider Score 98
Hospital Score 45
Travel Score 49

Closest Hospital - ST VINCENT HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 01068 Oakham Massachusetts
No Cars 1.48 1.48 5.90
1 Car 7.02 7.02 23.77
2 Cars 30.91 30.91 41.47
3 or More Cars 60.59 60.59 28.86

Vehicular Access in 01068, Oakham, Massachusetts

Travel Score Review of 01068, Oakham, Massachusetts

***

The crisp New England air, a promise of vibrant autumns and snowy winters, often holds a hidden adversary for residents of Oakham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01068): asthma. Assessing the ease of navigating healthcare access, particularly for those managing this respiratory condition, is crucial for anyone considering moving to Oakham. This 'Asthma Score' write-up delves into the transportation landscape, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for accessing medical care, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport options.

The primary hurdle for Oakham residents seeking healthcare is its rural setting. The town, nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, lacks a hospital or major medical center within its borders. This necessitates travel to neighboring towns and cities for specialized care, presenting a significant transportation challenge, especially for individuals with asthma who may experience sudden exacerbations.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation. The primary routes to access healthcare facilities involve navigating the region's network of highways and secondary roads. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), a major east-west artery, provides relatively swift access to Worcester, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. Worcester houses several hospitals, including UMass Memorial Medical Center, offering comprehensive asthma care.

Alternatively, Route 9, a scenic but often congested road, provides a less direct route to Worcester, potentially adding travel time. For those seeking care to the east, I-84 provides access to Hartford, Connecticut, a journey of roughly an hour and a half, offering additional healthcare options. These drive times, while manageable, can be problematic during peak hours or inclement weather, potentially delaying critical medical attention for asthma sufferers.

Public transportation options are limited in Oakham. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus service, but its routes primarily serve Worcester and its surrounding areas. There is no direct WRTA service to Oakham. Individuals relying on public transit would likely need to arrange for a ride to a WRTA hub, adding significant time and complexity to their healthcare access.

The WRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, which is a critical consideration for individuals with asthma who may have mobility limitations. However, the infrequent service and the need for multiple transfers make public transit a less practical option for many Oakham residents, especially during an asthma attack.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services in Oakham can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

The reliability of ride-sharing services can be a concern for individuals with asthma. Delays in securing a ride or unexpected cancellations could lead to missed appointments or delayed access to emergency care. The availability of trained drivers familiar with the needs of asthma patients is also uncertain.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include trained medical personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to handle medical emergencies. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including AMR (American Medical Response) and LifeCare Ambulance.

These services offer a vital safety net for asthma patients, particularly during emergencies. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior authorization may be required depending on the insurance coverage. The response time of these services is also crucial, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be significant.

When considering moving to Oakham, the transportation landscape’s impact on healthcare access is paramount. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and awareness of potential traffic delays. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose additional challenges.

The presence of medical transport services provides a critical safety net, but the cost and potential response times must be considered. For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly and reliably access medical care is a matter of life and death.

The ideal scenario would involve a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare needs, including the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of the asthma condition, and the individual's ability to drive or arrange for transportation. Researching the availability and cost of medical transport services is also essential.

Furthermore, exploring telemedicine options, where possible, can reduce the need for frequent travel to healthcare facilities. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician and developing an asthma action plan are crucial steps in managing the condition effectively.

In conclusion, while Oakham offers a tranquil and beautiful environment, the transportation infrastructure presents significant challenges for individuals with asthma seeking healthcare access. The 'Asthma Score' for this ZIP Code is therefore influenced by the geographic remoteness and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing options.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning and proactive measures. The presence of medical transport services offers a critical safety net, but the cost and response times must be considered. For those contemplating a move to Oakham, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and a proactive approach to transportation planning are essential for ensuring timely and reliable access to medical care.

Reviews

Recent Reviews

No reviews yet.

Leave a review
Health Scores Near 01068, Oakham, Massachusetts

You may also like

01074, South Barre, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 3.38 Miles

Total Population: 584

01094, Wheelwright, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 4.76 Miles

Total Population: 70

01037, Hardwick, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 7.74 Miles

Total Population: 692

01031, Gilbertville, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 8.44 Miles

Total Population: 1,577

01083, Warren, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 11.77 Miles

Total Population: 2,701

01082, Ware, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 11.81 Miles

Total Population: 10,441

01092, West Warren, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 13.87 Miles

Total Population: 1,248

01079, Thorndike, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 18.36 Miles

Total Population: 521

01069, Palmer, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01068: 19.72 Miles

Total Population: 8,870

Health Scores in 01068, Oakham, Massachusetts