02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 02553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 10.58 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Monument Beach (02553)

The salty air and scenic vistas of Monument Beach, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02553), beckon with promises of tranquility. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic charm necessitates a pragmatic assessment of healthcare access. This “Asthma Score” write-up meticulously examines the transportation landscape, a critical component of healthcare access, for residents and prospective movers, particularly those considering moving to Monument Beach. We’ll explore the various modes of transportation available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, evaluating their suitability for individuals requiring regular or urgent asthma care.

Our analysis focuses on the practical realities of reaching essential medical facilities, including hospitals, specialist offices, and pharmacies, within a reasonable timeframe. The presence of asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, underscores the importance of swift and reliable transportation. Delays in accessing medication or emergency care can have serious health consequences. Therefore, understanding the transportation options is paramount for residents and those contemplating a move to this coastal community.

**Driving: The Primary Mode of Transportation**

For most Monument Beach residents, the automobile reigns supreme. The primary arteries for healthcare access are the Massachusetts Route 28 and the scenic but sometimes congested Route 6A. The drive to Falmouth Hospital, the nearest full-service hospital, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 28, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This drive time can fluctuate significantly during peak hours, summer weekends, or due to unexpected incidents. Route 6A, while offering a more picturesque route, tends to be slower and more prone to delays.

Specialist appointments and pharmacies are often scattered throughout the surrounding towns, including Bourne, Falmouth, and Mashpee. Drive times to these locations vary, ranging from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the destination and traffic. Parking availability at healthcare facilities, particularly during peak hours, can add to the overall travel time and stress. For those with asthma, navigating the parking challenges and potential exposure to exhaust fumes necessitates careful planning.

**Public Transportation: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in Monument Beach, while present, are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus services, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, the frequency of these routes is limited, and the coverage area may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The CCRTA’s fixed-route bus service, known as the “Sea Line,” operates along Route 28 and connects to Falmouth. The bus routes are accessible to individuals with disabilities, featuring ADA-compliant ramps and designated seating.

The travel time via public transit is considerably longer than driving. The bus ride to Falmouth Hospital can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, including potential wait times and transfers. This extended travel time may not be suitable for individuals experiencing acute asthma symptoms or requiring urgent medical attention. Furthermore, the reliance on public transportation necessitates careful planning and adherence to schedules, which can be challenging for those with unpredictable health needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. Availability in Monument Beach is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase the cost. Ride-sharing provides a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive themselves or lacking access to a personal vehicle. However, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be unpredictable, especially during inclement weather or periods of high demand.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transportation, several options are available. Ambulance services provide emergency medical transport to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services cater to individuals needing transportation to routine medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. Several NEMT providers operate in the Cape Cod area, including companies that specialize in transporting individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Access**

Access to pharmacies is a crucial aspect of healthcare access for asthma sufferers. Several pharmacies are located within a reasonable driving distance of Monument Beach, including chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. The proximity of these pharmacies ensures easy access to prescription medications and over-the-counter asthma relief products. However, the availability of specific medications may vary, and individuals may need to call ahead to ensure their prescriptions are in stock.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Transportation Landscape**

Monument Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, but individuals with asthma must carefully consider the transportation landscape when evaluating healthcare access. While driving remains the primary mode of transportation, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services provide supplementary options. Prospective movers should thoroughly research the availability and reliability of these services, factoring in potential travel times, costs, and accessibility features.

The Asthma Score for Monument Beach, therefore, is nuanced. While the proximity to Falmouth Hospital and the availability of pharmacies are positive factors, the limited public transportation options and potential traffic delays warrant careful consideration. Individuals with asthma should proactively plan their transportation needs, considering the potential for unexpected health events and the importance of timely access to medical care. Moving to Monument Beach requires a proactive approach to healthcare access, emphasizing preparedness and a comprehensive understanding of the transportation options available.