02839, Mapleville, Rhode Island Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02839, Mapleville, Rhode Island is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.04 percent of residents in 02839 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kent County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.89 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mapleville (ZIP Code 02839)

The crisp New England air, the charming village green, the promise of a slower pace – Mapleville, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02839), beckons. But for individuals managing asthma, the allure of a new home must be tempered with a critical assessment: how easily can you access healthcare? This “Asthma Score” write-up delves into the transportation landscape of Mapleville, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities for residents with asthma. We will explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, providing a comprehensive overview to inform your decision-making process, particularly if you are *moving to Mapleville*.

The cornerstone of this assessment is understanding the geographical layout. Mapleville, nestled in the heart of Rhode Island, is a predominantly residential community. While the town itself boasts a local pharmacy, more specialized medical care often necessitates travel. The primary arteries for vehicular *transportation* are Route 116 and Route 102. These roads, though generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially at intersections. The drive to the nearest urgent care facility, located in the neighboring town of Smithfield, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 116.

For those requiring specialized pulmonary care, the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence becomes a crucial destination. The drive to Providence, utilizing Route 146, can range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The morning and evening commutes, particularly, can be challenging, with potential delays impacting *healthcare access*. This highlights the importance of considering travel time when scheduling appointments and factoring in potential exacerbations of asthma symptoms due to stress or environmental factors encountered during the commute.

Public *transportation* options in Mapleville are limited but present. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, although the frequency and coverage within Mapleville are somewhat restricted. Route 66, a key RIPTA route, offers service along Route 116, connecting Mapleville to Providence. The journey to Providence via Route 66 can take upwards of an hour, significantly longer than driving, but it offers a viable option for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving.

RIPTA strives to provide accessible service, with all buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential delays necessitates careful planning, especially for those with unpredictable asthma symptoms. The *ADA features* are crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mapleville, providing an alternative to driving or public transit. The availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. While ride-sharing offers a convenient door-to-door service, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services during emergencies needs careful consideration.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent another facet of the healthcare access landscape. Several companies operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with assistance from trained personnel. While NEMT services can be beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

When evaluating the Asthma Score, it's essential to consider the proximity of pharmacies. Fortunately, Mapleville has a local pharmacy, providing convenient access to medications and essential asthma supplies. This local access point significantly reduces the burden of obtaining necessary medications, a critical aspect of asthma management.

The presence of emergency medical services (EMS) in Mapleville is also a key factor. Emergency medical services, including ambulance services, are readily available in case of acute asthma exacerbations. The response time of EMS is crucial in managing severe asthma attacks, and the proximity of emergency services to residential areas significantly improves the Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for Mapleville (02839) is moderate. While the town offers local amenities, including a pharmacy and emergency services, the reliance on *transportation* to access specialized healthcare facilities, particularly pulmonary specialists, is a significant factor. The drive times to Providence, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services, require careful planning and consideration.

Individuals *moving to Mapleville* with asthma should proactively research healthcare providers in the area, including pulmonologists and allergists. They should familiarize themselves with the available *transportation* options and develop a plan for accessing medical care, including contingency plans for emergencies.

The decision to relocate to Mapleville should be informed by a thorough understanding of the *healthcare access* landscape. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the accessibility of healthcare services is a crucial factor for individuals managing asthma. This Asthma Score write-up provides a comprehensive overview of the *transportation* infrastructure, empowering prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.