02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.55 percent of residents in 02717 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 9.12 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02717 (East Freetown, MA)

The tranquil landscape of East Freetown, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02717), offers a respite from the urban clamor. But for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), this serenity presents a unique challenge: navigating the intricacies of **transportation** to access vital **healthcare**. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, examines the available options for residents of 02717, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements influencing **healthcare access** and impacting the decision-making process for those **moving to East Freetown**.

Understanding the geographic realities is paramount. East Freetown, a town of rolling hills and wooded areas, is largely rural. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Fall River, New Bedford, and Taunton, each presenting its own set of **transportation** hurdles. A "COPD Score" isn't a numerical grade, but a comprehensive overview to help patients and their caregivers make informed decisions.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries connecting East Freetown to healthcare are Route 140, Route 18, and Route 105. Traveling to Saint Anne's Hospital in Fall River, a common destination, typically involves taking Route 140 south, then connecting to Route 195 east. During off-peak hours, this drive can take approximately 20-30 minutes, a manageable timeframe for many. However, during rush hour, especially in the morning and late afternoon, the journey can easily stretch to 45 minutes or more, significantly impacting a COPD patient's comfort and well-being. The traffic on Route 195 is especially notorious.

For those seeking care at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, the route is similar, again heavily reliant on Route 140 and Route 195. The drive time is comparable, but the patient's location within East Freetown can influence the exact duration. Residents closer to the western edge of town might find themselves closer to Route 105, offering an alternative, albeit slower, route to Fall River.

New Bedford's major hospitals, including the prominent Southcoast Health facilities, are accessible via Route 140 south to Route 195 east. The drive, typically taking 30-40 minutes in moderate traffic, can become a significant undertaking during peak periods. The same is true for Morton Hospital in Taunton, which can be reached via Route 140 north and then Route 44 east, a journey that typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

**Public Transit Ponderings:**

Public **transportation** options in East Freetown are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but its routes within 02717 are sparse. The primary routes serving Fall River and New Bedford, such as the Route 1 and Route 2, do not directly penetrate deep into East Freetown. Passengers would likely need to arrange a ride to a central point in Fall River or New Bedford to access these buses, adding another layer of complexity to the journey.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. SRTA buses are equipped with ramps and other ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can board and disembark safely. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can still pose challenges for COPD patients, especially those experiencing shortness of breath or fatigue. Detailed route information, including schedules and ADA features, can be found on the SRTA website.

**Ride-Sharing Realities:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the 02717 area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The ability to schedule rides in advance is a crucial advantage, but it doesn't guarantee availability, especially during times of high demand.

**Medical Transport Maneuvers:**

Specialized medical **transportation** services cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services, often provided by companies like MedStar and American Medical Response, offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including stretcher services and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing, but they provide a higher level of care and support, including trained personnel to assist with patient transfers and provide basic medical assistance during the journey.

These services are particularly valuable for COPD patients who may require oxygen or other medical equipment during transit. The companies are also familiar with the specific needs of patients with respiratory conditions, providing a degree of comfort and security that other forms of **transportation** may not offer.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "COPD Score" for 02717 reveals a complex picture. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited **transportation** options present challenges for **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the sparse public transit network, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to the complexity.

For individuals considering **moving to East Freetown**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. Factors to consider include the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of their COPD symptoms, and their financial resources. Proximity to major roads, access to reliable internet for ride-sharing, and the availability of family or friends to provide **transportation** support are also critical.

The "COPD Score" emphasizes the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and convenient access to **healthcare**. While the rural nature of East Freetown offers undeniable charm, the **transportation** landscape demands careful consideration for those managing COPD. Residents should explore all available options, from personal vehicles and ride-sharing to medical transport services, to create a sustainable plan for managing their healthcare needs within the community.