02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.12 percent of residents in 02791 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Anne's Hospital with a distance of 12.95 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westport Point (02791)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities for residents of ZIP Code 02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts, calculating a "COPD Score" based on drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This analysis is crucial for those considering **moving to Westport Point**, ensuring they can maintain consistent **healthcare access**.

Westport Point, a picturesque coastal community, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare accessibility. While offering a tranquil environment, its relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of transportation options, especially for those with respiratory conditions. The COPD Score reflects the overall accessibility of healthcare, factoring in the complexities of travel for individuals whose breathing may be compromised.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Care**

The primary method of accessing healthcare in and around Westport Point is by car. The most direct route to major medical centers involves navigating the local roadways. Traveling to St. Anne's Hospital in Fall River, a significant regional healthcare provider, typically requires a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey necessitates utilizing Route 88, a vital artery connecting Westport Point to Fall River. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting those with COPD.

Alternatively, for specialized care or consultations, residents might need to travel to Providence, Rhode Island, home to renowned hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital. This trip involves taking Route 88 north to Route 195 East. The drive to Providence can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions on Route 195, a major interstate highway. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning, particularly for individuals who may experience breathing difficulties during extended periods of inactivity.

Furthermore, access to primary care physicians and specialists within Westport itself is limited. This further emphasizes the reliance on transportation to nearby towns and cities for routine appointments and emergency care. The condition of the roadways, including Route 88 and the connecting Route 195, becomes a critical factor in determining the COPD Score, as delays can exacerbate respiratory symptoms and increase anxiety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Westport Point are considerably limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the surrounding areas, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for the needs of individuals with COPD. Route 10, for instance, offers service along Route 6, potentially providing access to healthcare facilities in Fall River. However, the schedule is infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve all medical centers.

Furthermore, the accessibility of these buses for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial factor. While SRTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the availability of accessible buses and the ease of boarding and disembarking can vary. The COPD Score considers the practicality of utilizing public transit, acknowledging the potential challenges of navigating bus schedules, transfers, and the physical demands of waiting at bus stops, especially during inclement weather.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. While readily available in the area, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some individuals. For those with COPD, the ability to pre-schedule rides and ensure prompt pickup is crucial. However, the reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, is a factor that influences the COPD Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like MedStar and various local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with boarding and disembarking, and can accommodate medical equipment like oxygen tanks. The availability and cost of these services are important considerations in the COPD Score, as they provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit.

**Calculating the COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The COPD Score for Westport Point, 02791, is a composite measure that considers the following factors: average drive times to major healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. Each factor is weighted based on its relative importance to individuals with COPD.

The score is calculated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest. Factors like traffic congestion on Route 88 and Route 195, limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transportation services and the potential for ride-sharing services to fill the gaps could increase the score.

**Implications for Moving and Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering **moving to Westport Point**, the COPD Score serves as a critical tool for evaluating healthcare accessibility. A lower score suggests that residents may face greater challenges in accessing timely and convenient medical care. This information is essential for making informed decisions about relocation, particularly for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

The COPD Score also highlights the need for proactive planning. Individuals with COPD should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, identify preferred healthcare providers, and establish contingency plans for emergencies. This might include pre-arranging transportation services, ensuring access to necessary medications, and understanding the local emergency response protocols.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The COPD Score for Westport Point reflects the realities of healthcare access in a community with limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles. While the area offers a serene environment, the challenges of transportation must be carefully considered by individuals with COPD. By understanding the available options and proactively planning for their healthcare needs, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape and maintain their quality of life. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing accessibility and making informed decisions about healthcare and **transportation** needs, particularly for those considering **moving to Westport Point** and ensuring seamless **healthcare access**.