02347, Lakeville, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02347, Lakeville, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.41 percent of residents in 02347 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 8.34 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lakeville (ZIP Code 02347)

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human need, can be significantly impacted by the accessibility of transportation. For individuals managing asthma, this accessibility becomes even more critical, shaping the ability to receive timely medical care, access essential medications, and maintain overall well-being. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, specifically examines the transportation landscape within and around Lakeville, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02347), evaluating the ease with which residents, particularly those with asthma, can reach healthcare facilities. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Lakeville.

The primary healthcare hub for Lakeville residents is likely to be located in the neighboring towns of Taunton or Middleborough, Massachusetts. The journey by car, the most common mode of transportation, offers a degree of flexibility but is subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. Driving south on Route 18, a major artery through Lakeville, provides direct access to Taunton, a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 105, another key road, offers a more scenic route to Middleborough, typically a 10-15 minute drive. These drive times, while generally manageable, could be significantly impacted by rush hour, inclement weather, or unforeseen road closures, potentially delaying critical medical appointments or emergency care.

The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-495) is a crucial transportation artery, offering faster access to healthcare facilities further afield, such as those in Brockton or even Boston. However, the commute on I-495, while potentially faster, necessitates navigating toll booths and dealing with the higher speeds of highway travel, which can be stressful for individuals with asthma. The availability of ample parking at healthcare facilities is another factor to consider, especially for those with mobility limitations or who require quick access to medical services.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative to driving, presents its own set of challenges for individuals with asthma. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the area, but the routes serving Lakeville are limited. Route 10, for instance, connects Lakeville to Taunton, but the frequency of service may not always align with the needs of patients requiring regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a crucial consideration. While SRTA strives to provide accessible vehicles, individuals with severe asthma may find the enclosed environment of a bus, particularly during peak hours, triggering.

The lack of a direct commuter rail line serving Lakeville further limits public transit options. The nearest commuter rail stations are located in Middleborough and Taunton, requiring a separate mode of transportation, such as a bus or ride-share, to reach them. This multi-modal journey adds to the overall travel time and complexity, making it less appealing for individuals with breathing difficulties. The limited public transportation options underscore the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for healthcare access in Lakeville.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. Their on-demand nature provides flexibility, allowing individuals to schedule rides to and from medical appointments at their convenience. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources or who require frequent medical care. The availability of ride-sharing services also depends on driver availability, which can vary depending on the time of day and the location within Lakeville.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or who require assistance. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and MedStar provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma who require assistance with getting in and out of vehicles or who need oxygen support during transport. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can be a factor in healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" assessment for Lakeville considers the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, is subject to traffic and environmental factors. The limited public transit options and the potential cost barriers of ride-sharing services present challenges for some residents. The availability of medical transportation services offers a specialized solution, but their cost and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Lakeville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. The proximity to healthcare facilities in Taunton and Middleborough is a positive factor, but the potential for traffic delays and the limited public transit options require careful consideration. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative solutions, but their associated costs and pre-booking requirements must be factored into the decision-making process.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Lakeville reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities by car, the limited public transit options and the potential cost barriers of alternative transportation methods can pose challenges for some residents, particularly those with limited mobility or financial resources. A prospective resident with asthma should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and resources before making a move to Lakeville. The success of healthcare access hinges on a multifaceted approach, involving personal vehicle accessibility, understanding public transportation limitations, and exploring ride-sharing and medical transport options.