02771, Seekonk, Massachusetts COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 02771, Seekonk, Massachusetts is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.22 percent of residents in 02771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 12.89 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Seekonk, MA (ZIP Code 02771)

The crisp New England air, the historic charm, and the convenient location make Seekonk, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02771) an appealing place to live. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This write-up provides a COPD Score assessment, focusing on transportation options and healthcare access within and around Seekonk, aiming to inform those considering moving to the area or seeking improved healthcare access.

The COPD Score considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. These elements directly impact the ability of COPD patients to attend appointments, access medications, and receive essential respiratory care. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on healthcare accessibility for residents.

Seekonk, nestled in Bristol County, enjoys a relatively advantageous position regarding transportation. Its proximity to Providence, Rhode Island, and its connection to major roadways significantly influence healthcare access. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transport require careful consideration for individuals with COPD, whose mobility and endurance may be compromised.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Seekonk are Interstate 195 (I-195) and Route 6. I-195 offers direct access to Providence and provides a crucial link to various healthcare facilities. Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, connects Seekonk to nearby towns and cities, including Swansea and Rehoboth. The drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the location and traffic conditions.

For instance, driving to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-25 minutes via I-195, assuming moderate traffic. The drive to Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA, a closer option, can be accomplished in approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 6. During peak hours, particularly morning and evening commutes, traffic congestion can significantly increase these drive times.

Navigating Seekonk's local roads, such as Newman Avenue and Taunton Avenue, is generally straightforward. However, these roads can become congested during school drop-off and pick-up times, potentially adding to travel times for medical appointments. The accessibility of healthcare facilities hinges on understanding these traffic patterns and planning accordingly.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Seekonk are limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides some bus service, but the routes within Seekonk are infrequent and may not be the most practical choice for individuals with COPD. The primary RIPTA routes that serve the area are Route 1, which connects to Providence, and Route 56, which travels to Bristol, RI.

Accessibility features on RIPTA buses, such as ramps and designated seating, are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of these routes and the potential for long travel times can pose challenges for COPD patients. The need to transfer buses, especially in inclement weather, can further exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) does not directly serve Seekonk. This means that residents relying on public transit for healthcare access must primarily depend on RIPTA, potentially limiting their choices and increasing travel times. This is a crucial factor to consider when assessing healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Seekonk, offering an alternative transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on public transit or personal vehicles. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR), are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, providing a safer and more comfortable transportation experience for COPD patients. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services enhances healthcare access in Seekonk, providing options for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to rely on public transit. However, the cost and availability of these services must be factored into the overall COPD Score assessment.

**Healthcare Access in Seekonk:**

Seekonk itself offers limited healthcare facilities. Residents often rely on healthcare providers in neighboring cities and towns, particularly Providence, RI, and Attleboro, MA. The proximity to these healthcare hubs is a significant advantage.

Several hospitals and medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance of Seekonk. These include Rhode Island Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, and The Miriam Hospital in Providence, RI, and Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA. These facilities offer a wide range of medical services, including pulmonology and respiratory care.

Additionally, numerous primary care physicians and specialists are located in and around Seekonk. These healthcare providers play a crucial role in managing COPD, providing ongoing care, and coordinating referrals to specialized services. The availability of these providers contributes positively to the overall healthcare access for residents.

**COPD Score Considerations:**

The COPD Score for Seekonk, MA (ZIP Code 02771) must balance the advantages of proximity to healthcare facilities with the limitations of transportation options. While the location offers good access to major hospitals and medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges for individuals with COPD.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative transportation options, but the cost and availability must be considered. The frequency of medical appointments, the severity of COPD symptoms, and individual mobility limitations are all factors that will influence the impact of these transportation options.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Seekonk, or for existing residents seeking improved healthcare access, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. While the location offers proximity to quality healthcare, the limitations of public transport and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services require careful planning.

Understanding drive times, traffic patterns, and the availability of alternative transportation options is essential for ensuring timely access to medical appointments and essential respiratory care. The COPD Score for Seekonk, MA, is a nuanced assessment that weighs the advantages of healthcare proximity against the challenges of transportation, empowering individuals to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs and their overall quality of life. Moving to Seekonk can be a positive choice, but a proactive approach to healthcare access is vital.