02559, Pocasset, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02559, Pocasset, Massachusetts is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.23 percent of residents in 02559 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 8.79 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Accessing Healthcare in Pocasset, MA (ZIP Code 02559)**

Pocasset, Massachusetts, a charming village nestled in the town of Bourne, offers a tranquil coastal lifestyle. However, the peace of this idyllic setting can be disrupted by the realities of healthcare access, particularly for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for individuals living in ZIP code 02559, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources. This analysis is crucial for residents and those *moving to Pocasset*, particularly those concerned about managing their health and ensuring timely access to medical care.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and treatment. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments are vital for managing this condition effectively. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and reliably is therefore paramount for individuals with hypertension. Our analysis considers the various transportation options available, evaluating their efficiency, accessibility, and overall impact on the ability of Pocasset residents to receive the care they need.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

The primary thoroughfare serving Pocasset is **Massachusetts Route 28**, a vital artery connecting the village to neighboring towns and cities. Travel times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, especially during peak hours and seasonal tourism influxes. Reaching the nearest primary care physicians and specialists in Bourne and surrounding areas, such as Wareham and Falmouth, typically involves a drive of 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the destination and time of day.

Accessing larger hospitals, such as Tobey Hospital in Wareham or Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, requires a longer commute. The drive to Tobey Hospital via Route 28 can take approximately 20 to 40 minutes, while the journey to Cape Cod Hospital, usually via Route 28 and the **Mid-Cape Highway (Route 6)**, can extend to 45 minutes to an hour or more, particularly during summer weekends. The **Bourne Bridge**, a critical link to the mainland, can also be a bottleneck, especially during periods of high traffic volume.

For residents with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, these drive times can pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles emphasizes the importance of alternative transportation solutions for those with hypertension and other health concerns.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Challenges**

Public transportation options in Pocasset are limited. The **Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA)** provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not as extensive as in more urban areas. The CCRTA’s **Route 11** serves the Bourne area, including Pocasset, offering connections to other CCRTA routes and regional transportation hubs.

However, the frequency of Route 11, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not align with the scheduling needs of medical appointments. Additionally, the route's coverage might not directly serve all healthcare facilities, potentially requiring transfers or lengthy walks.

While the CCRTA strives to provide ADA-accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses, individuals with mobility impairments may still face challenges in navigating the routes and accessing healthcare facilities. The availability of accessible stops and the distance from bus stops to medical offices are crucial considerations. Public transit, while offering a valuable alternative, presents limitations that impact healthcare access for some residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to operate a vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Pocasset can be variable, depending on demand and driver availability. During off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density, securing a ride may require longer wait times.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Several providers operate in the region, including companies that focus on non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, and advance booking is often required.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score**

The transportation landscape in Pocasset, MA, presents a mixed picture for individuals with hypertension. While driving provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, it is not always feasible for all residents. Public transportation offers a limited but valuable alternative, while ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options, albeit with potential limitations in availability and cost.

The *healthcare access* for residents of 02559 is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of transportation options, the distance to healthcare providers, the individual's mobility and financial resources, and the frequency of medical appointments all play a role.

For individuals *moving to Pocasset* with hypertension, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. This includes considering the proximity of healthcare providers, the reliability of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transportation. Planning and preparation are crucial to ensure seamless access to the necessary medical care.

The “Hypertension Score” for 02559, reflecting the ease of *transportation* to healthcare, is moderate. While driving offers the most direct access, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services create challenges for some residents. This score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available transportation options, and advocating for improved public transportation services to enhance healthcare access for all Pocasset residents.