02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.31 percent of residents in 02576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 12.26 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02576

Living in West Wareham, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02576), presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, considering the crucial element of transportation, which significantly impacts your ability to consistently receive care. Understanding these factors is vital for residents and those **moving to West Wareham**, ensuring they can effectively manage their health.

The score considers various transportation modalities, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. Each element is assessed based on its availability, reliability, and accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, recognizing the importance of **healthcare access**.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For those relying on private vehicles, the primary arteries for **transportation** in and around West Wareham are Route 28 and Route 6. Route 28, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to healthcare facilities in Wareham, Plymouth, and beyond. Route 6, also known as the Mid-Cape Highway, offers east-west connectivity, leading to facilities in Bourne and further along the Cape.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly. During peak hours, especially weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion on Route 28 and Route 6 can substantially increase travel times. A typical trip to Tobey Hospital in Wareham, for example, might take 10-15 minutes under ideal conditions. However, during rush hour, this could easily stretch to 20-30 minutes, impacting the timely arrival for appointments and potentially exacerbating stress levels, a known contributor to hypertension.

Beyond these main roads, local roads like Marion Road, Cranberry Highway, and Main Street in Wareham provide access to local clinics and pharmacies. These roads, while offering convenience, can also be subject to congestion, especially during school pick-up and drop-off times. Careful planning is crucial for those with hypertension, ensuring adequate time for travel and minimizing potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in 02576 are limited, impacting **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA) provides some bus services in the area, but routes and frequency are not extensive. The routes serving West Wareham may have limited schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings, making it challenging to reach healthcare appointments outside of standard business hours.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. GATRA buses are generally equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges. Individuals with hypertension, especially those with related mobility issues, must carefully assess the feasibility of public transit, factoring in potential delays and the need for assistance.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternatives to Consider**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. Surge pricing, a common practice during peak hours, can also make ride-sharing an expensive option, potentially limiting access for those on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments are also available. These services, often provided by companies like SeniorCare, offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and may have limited availability, making it crucial to plan ahead.

**Assessing the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for 02576, based on these transportation factors, would likely be moderate. While driving offers the most flexibility, traffic congestion and travel times can be problematic. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing availability is variable. Medical transportation services provide a valuable resource but require careful planning.

This score highlights the importance of proactive planning for individuals managing hypertension in West Wareham. This includes:

* **Scheduling appointments strategically:** Aiming for off-peak travel times to minimize delays.
* **Exploring all transportation options:** Considering the pros and cons of each modality.
* **Utilizing available resources:** Taking advantage of medical transportation services when needed.
* **Building a support network:** Relying on family, friends, or community organizations for assistance.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility**

The availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities within and around 02576 are also critical. Tobey Hospital in Wareham is the primary acute care facility, offering a range of services, including cardiology and primary care. Several local clinics and physician offices are also available, providing convenient access to routine check-ups and medication management.

The location of these facilities, their hours of operation, and the availability of appointment slots should be carefully considered. For those **moving to West Wareham**, researching the proximity of healthcare providers to their residence and assessing the ease of access via various transportation methods is essential.

**Pharmacies and Medication Management**

Access to pharmacies for prescription refills and medication management is another crucial element. Several pharmacies are located in Wareham and surrounding towns, offering convenient access to medications. However, individuals should consider the pharmacy's hours of operation, the availability of drive-through services, and the potential for delivery options, especially for those with mobility limitations or limited transportation options.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in 02576 requires a proactive approach, especially for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of understanding the limitations and opportunities presented by the available **transportation** options. By carefully planning appointments, exploring all available resources, and prioritizing **healthcare access**, residents of West Wareham can effectively manage their health and well-being. This is especially important for those **moving to West Wareham**, who should prioritize researching the transportation and healthcare infrastructure before making a move.