The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02571, Wareham, Massachusetts is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
69.03 percent of residents in 02571 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 13.06 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 02571, Wareham, Massachusetts
Hypertension Score | 24 |
---|---|
People Score | 20 |
Provider Score | 52 |
Hospital Score | 46 |
Travel Score | 35 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 02571 | Wareham | Massachusetts |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 4.44 | 4.44 | 5.90 |
1 Car | 16.93 | 16.93 | 23.77 |
2 Cars | 40.71 | 40.71 | 41.47 |
3 or More Cars | 37.92 | 37.92 | 28.86 |
Vehicular Access in 02571, Wareham, Massachusetts
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wareham (02571)
The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Wareham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02571), a town nestled on the scenic South Coast, the ease with which residents can reach medical services, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is a critical factor in overall well-being. This analysis explores the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, ultimately informing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities for residents managing their blood pressure within this specific geographic area.
Wareham's location, while offering coastal charm, presents transportation hurdles. The town is primarily served by Route 6, a vital artery connecting it to neighboring communities and the larger regional network. Interstate 195 (I-195) provides a faster, though often congested, route westward towards Providence, Rhode Island, and eastward towards Cape Cod. Route 28, another key thoroughfare, winds its way through the town, offering access to local businesses and residential areas. These highways and roads form the backbone of Wareham's transportation infrastructure, and their efficiency directly impacts healthcare access.
For individuals with hypertension, timely access to medical appointments, medication refills, and regular check-ups is paramount. Delays caused by traffic, distance, or limited transportation options can exacerbate the condition, leading to poorer health outcomes. This is where the "Hypertension Score" becomes relevant, quantifying the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary healthcare services.
Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Wareham. The drive time to the closest primary care physician, a crucial starting point for hypertension management, will vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the time of day. During peak commuting hours, congestion on Route 6 and Route 28 can significantly extend travel times. Residents living in the more rural areas of Wareham, further from the town center, might face longer drives to access healthcare facilities.
Public transportation offers an alternative, although its availability and efficiency are more limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service within the region. While the specific routes serving Wareham may vary, they often connect to larger hubs like New Bedford and Fall River. However, bus schedules might not align perfectly with medical appointment times, and the frequency of service can be a constraint, particularly during evenings and weekends. Furthermore, the presence of ADA-accessible features on buses, such as ramps and designated seating, is essential for individuals with mobility limitations, a consideration that directly impacts the "Hypertension Score."
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Wareham, providing a potentially convenient option for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas, can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also add to the financial burden of healthcare access, a factor that can influence the "Hypertension Score" and the ability of individuals to seek timely care.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable resource for individuals with mobility issues or those unable to drive. Several companies operate in the region, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, making them a convenient option for those managing hypertension. The availability, cost, and responsiveness of these medical transport services are crucial elements in determining the "Hypertension Score."
The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the location of pharmacies within Wareham. Access to medication refills is critical for managing hypertension, and the proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare facilities is a significant factor. The availability of pharmacies that offer home delivery services can further enhance healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.
For those considering moving to Wareham, the transportation landscape is a crucial consideration. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services in their chosen area. Factors such as proximity to primary care physicians, pharmacies, and hospitals, as well as the availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services, will directly impact their ability to manage their health, including conditions like hypertension.
The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number; it's a dynamic reflection of the evolving transportation and healthcare landscape in Wareham. It will be influenced by factors such as road improvements, changes in public transportation routes and schedules, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of medical transport options. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all Wareham residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension and maintain their well-being.
Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Wareham (02571) is a complex assessment. It requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between transportation infrastructure, healthcare resources, and the specific needs of the community. By carefully evaluating these factors, we can gain a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents as they navigate the path to healthcare in this coastal Massachusetts town. The goal is to ensure that all Wareham residents, regardless of their location or mobility, have the resources and support they need to effectively manage their hypertension and live healthy, fulfilling lives.
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