02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.69 percent of residents in 02748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Anne's Hospital with a distance of 12.47 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in South Dartmouth (ZIP Code 02748)

The salty air of South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, often carries a welcome breeze off Buzzards Bay. However, for residents managing asthma, the promise of coastal living can be tempered by the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, an "Asthma Score" write-up, focuses on transportation options within ZIP code 02748, evaluating their impact on accessing medical care, a critical factor for individuals with respiratory conditions. Considering the nuances of transportation, this score will assist potential residents in understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare services.

The primary consideration for anyone with asthma is the swiftness and reliability of reaching a medical professional during an exacerbation. Drive times are paramount. From the heart of South Dartmouth, a drive to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, a major healthcare provider, usually involves navigating Route 6, a commercial thoroughfare, and then taking a short jaunt on Route 195. During off-peak hours, this journey might take approximately 15-20 minutes. However, rush hour, especially on weekdays, can dramatically increase travel time, sometimes stretching it to 45 minutes or even an hour, depending on traffic congestion.

For those seeking specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, the drive to Boston, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes away, becomes a necessity. This necessitates utilizing Route 195 East, connecting to I-95 North. The drive, while manageable, requires careful planning, especially during inclement weather. The unpredictable nature of Massachusetts traffic, coupled with potential delays, can significantly impact the ability to receive timely medical attention.

Public transportation options in South Dartmouth, while present, are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service within the region. Route 10, the primary route serving South Dartmouth, offers connections to New Bedford and other surrounding towns. However, this route operates on a limited schedule, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. Accessibility for individuals with asthma, particularly those experiencing breathing difficulties, is a key consideration. SRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features, providing accessibility. However, the infrequent service and potential for delays can pose challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation solution. The convenience of summoning a ride at any time is a definite advantage. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, particularly for frequent medical visits. Moreover, the reliability of ride-sharing during peak hours or inclement weather can be uncertain, potentially impacting the timeliness of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often prioritize patient comfort and safety, providing a valuable option for individuals with asthma who require assistance. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limitations in terms of immediate availability during emergencies.

The geographical location of South Dartmouth, while offering scenic beauty, presents challenges in terms of healthcare access. The town is situated away from major urban centers, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles or public transportation for accessing specialized medical care. The "Asthma Score" would reflect this reality, acknowledging the dependence on personal vehicles for timely access to healthcare.

Moving to South Dartmouth with asthma requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Prospective residents should evaluate the proximity of healthcare providers, the reliability of public transportation, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach medical care is a crucial element in managing asthma and ensuring a high quality of life.

The availability of urgent care facilities in the area is another critical factor. While St. Luke's Hospital provides emergency services, the presence of urgent care centers offers an alternative for less severe asthma exacerbations. These facilities, often located closer to residential areas, can provide immediate medical attention, reducing the need for lengthy travel to the hospital.

The overall "Asthma Score" for South Dartmouth would reflect a mixed assessment. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges of transportation, particularly during peak hours or in the absence of a personal vehicle, can negatively impact healthcare access. The score would emphasize the importance of proactive planning, including the identification of reliable transportation options and the establishment of a clear plan for managing asthma exacerbations.

Furthermore, the score would highlight the importance of educating oneself about available resources, such as local pharmacies and support groups. Proximity to pharmacies for medication refills and access to support networks can significantly improve the overall experience of living with asthma in South Dartmouth.

In conclusion, while South Dartmouth offers a beautiful setting, individuals with asthma must carefully consider the transportation landscape when assessing healthcare access. The "Asthma Score" serves as a crucial tool for making informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare needs are met efficiently and effectively. The ability to quickly and reliably access medical care is paramount for managing asthma and maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life.