02713, Cuttyhunk, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02713, Cuttyhunk, Massachusetts is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 02713 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Martha's Vineyard Hospital Inc with a distance of 18.26 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 02713

ZIP Code 02713, encompassing the charming island of Cuttyhunk, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. The very nature of island life, defined by its remoteness and reliance on water transportation, significantly impacts the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, detailing the available transportation options, their associated time commitments, and accessibility features, ultimately informing the decision-making process for those contemplating a move to this idyllic, yet geographically isolated, community.

The primary hurdle to healthcare access for Cuttyhunk residents is the absence of a permanent medical facility on the island. This necessitates travel to the mainland for all but the most basic medical needs. The primary mode of transportation is the Cuttyhunk Ferry, a lifeline connecting the island to the mainland. The ferry operates from the town of New Bedford, Massachusetts. The ferry trip itself, a scenic journey across Buzzards Bay, takes approximately 45 minutes. However, the journey doesn't end there.

Upon arrival in New Bedford, further transportation is required to reach healthcare providers. This is where the "Asthma Score" begins to consider various factors. Drive times to hospitals and specialized clinics are crucial. St. Luke's Hospital, the closest major medical center, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from the New Bedford ferry terminal, depending on traffic conditions. The most direct route involves navigating the city streets before merging onto Route 18 South. From there, drivers can access Interstate 195 East, providing access to the hospital. The presence of traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend this drive time, a critical consideration for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation offers an alternative, albeit a less direct one. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) operates bus routes within New Bedford. However, the bus system's direct connectivity to the ferry terminal and hospitals is limited. Reaching St. Luke's Hospital via public transit would involve a combination of bus routes, likely requiring transfers and potentially extending the total travel time to over an hour. This extended travel time, combined with the potential for exposure to environmental triggers on public transit, poses a significant challenge for asthma sufferers.

The SRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Furthermore, the inherent delays associated with public transit, compounded by the need for transfers, can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with asthma management.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, transportation option. These services are readily available in New Bedford and provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for multiple transfers. The estimated cost of a ride-share from the ferry terminal to St. Luke's Hospital is approximately $20-$30, depending on demand and time of day. While ride-sharing offers increased flexibility and reduced travel time compared to public transit, it is still subject to traffic delays and the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available in the area. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more costly than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability of medical transport on Cuttyhunk, and the response time in case of an emergency, should be a primary concern for those managing asthma.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of New Bedford, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, may necessitate travel to larger cities like Boston or Providence. The drive to Boston, a major medical hub, takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via Interstate 195 East and Route 93 North. The drive to Providence, Rhode Island, is shorter, approximately 45 minutes to an hour, utilizing Route 195 West. These longer travel times introduce additional complexities for asthma management, including potential exposure to allergens and pollutants along the way.

The "Asthma Score" must also account for emergency situations. In the event of a severe asthma attack, rapid access to medical care is paramount. The Cuttyhunk Fire Department provides emergency medical services, but the response time to transport a patient to the mainland is determined by the availability of the ferry and the weather conditions. This reliance on water transportation introduces an inherent vulnerability, especially during inclement weather, which can disrupt ferry schedules and delay access to critical medical care.

The Cuttyhunk Ferry, while essential, is susceptible to weather-related cancellations, especially during the winter months. This can effectively isolate the island and severely limit access to healthcare. Residents should be prepared for potential disruptions and have contingency plans in place, including access to medications and a communication system to contact emergency services.

Considering all these factors, the "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 02713 presents a mixed picture. The idyllic island setting and the close-knit community offer a unique quality of life. However, the challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly for individuals with asthma, are undeniable. The reliance on ferry transportation, the drive times to mainland medical facilities, and the potential for weather-related disruptions all contribute to a higher level of risk for asthma sufferers.

For individuals considering a move to Cuttyhunk with a history of asthma, a thorough evaluation of their individual needs and risk factors is essential. This should include a detailed discussion with their healthcare provider, a careful assessment of their ability to manage their asthma in a remote setting, and a realistic evaluation of the available transportation options. The ability to proactively manage asthma symptoms, including having readily available rescue medications and a clear emergency action plan, is paramount.

Furthermore, understanding the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services is crucial. Residents should be prepared to rely on personal vehicles or have readily available access to ride-sharing services. The ability to adapt to potential delays and disruptions, including weather-related cancellations, is essential.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Cuttyhunk for an individual with asthma requires a careful balancing of the island's unique appeal with the practical realities of healthcare access. While the island offers a tranquil and close-knit community, the "Asthma Score" highlights the need for proactive planning, careful consideration of transportation options, and a robust emergency preparedness plan. The beauty and serenity of Cuttyhunk can be enjoyed, but not without acknowledging the inherent challenges in accessing timely and reliable healthcare.