02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.96 percent of residents in 02769 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 8.68 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rehoboth (ZIP Code 02769)

The quaint town of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, with its historic charm and proximity to larger urban centers, offers a desirable lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical factor in choosing a place to live. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Rehoboth (ZIP Code 02769), specifically focusing on healthcare access. We will evaluate drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Rehoboth while managing asthma.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Rehoboth is the availability of medical facilities. While Rehoboth itself offers limited immediate medical services, the surrounding towns and cities, including Seekonk, Swansea, and Providence, Rhode Island, are home to hospitals, specialized clinics, and pharmacies. This necessitates a careful consideration of transportation options, which is crucial for maintaining regular medical appointments, especially during asthma exacerbations.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roadways**

For many Rehoboth residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. Several major roadways facilitate travel to healthcare facilities. Interstate 195 (I-195) provides a direct east-west connection, linking Rehoboth to Providence and its comprehensive medical resources. The drive to Rhode Island Hospital, a major medical center, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, the drive to Women & Infants Hospital, also in Providence, is comparable.

Route 44, a significant east-west artery, offers another route to Providence, though it often experiences heavier traffic, particularly during peak hours. The drive time via Route 44 can range from 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Route 118 and Route 118A provide access to local healthcare facilities in Seekonk and Swansea. Drive times to these facilities are typically shorter, ranging from 10-20 minutes.

Route 6, running parallel to I-195, presents an alternative route, though it can be slower due to traffic lights and a lower speed limit. During emergencies, the quickest route to a hospital is paramount, making familiarity with the most direct and efficient routes crucial. For individuals with asthma, the ability to reach medical care swiftly is essential.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation options in Rehoboth are limited, but they do exist. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service to Providence, offering a connection to a wider network of healthcare facilities. However, the routes serving Rehoboth are infrequent, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving.

RIPTA Route 60, for example, travels through Rehoboth, connecting to Providence. The journey can take over an hour, making it less desirable for urgent medical needs. Additionally, the availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and audio announcements, on RIPTA buses is essential for individuals with disabilities. RIPTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services on all its routes.

While the public transit option may be useful for routine appointments, the limited frequency and longer travel times make it less ideal for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms requiring immediate medical attention. The reliance on public transit necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option in Rehoboth. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and time of day. However, they offer a more flexible and convenient alternative to public transit, especially for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar Ambulance and Fallon Ambulance, are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and comfortable transport to medical appointments. While these services are primarily used for emergencies or for individuals with mobility limitations, they represent an important option for accessing healthcare.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Asthma Score" for Rehoboth reflects a nuanced picture of healthcare access. While the town benefits from its proximity to major medical centers in Providence, the reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services for timely access to care is a consideration. The limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays on major roadways necessitate careful planning and preparedness, particularly for individuals with asthma.

The ability to swiftly reach a healthcare facility during an asthma exacerbation is paramount. The availability of emergency services, including ambulances and rapid access to hospitals, is a critical component of the "Asthma Score." Knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facilities and emergency rooms, as well as the estimated drive times, is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

**Moving to Rehoboth: Prioritizing Healthcare**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Rehoboth, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is crucial. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services for accessing healthcare requires careful consideration.

Prospective residents should familiarize themselves with the roadways, estimate drive times to healthcare facilities, and assess the availability and cost of ride-sharing services. They should also investigate the availability of medical transportation services in the area. The ability to quickly reach a medical facility during an asthma exacerbation is a priority.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Rehoboth reflects a balance between the town's attractive qualities and the practical considerations of healthcare access. With careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape in Rehoboth and enjoy the benefits of living in this charming community.