02631, Brewster, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02631, Brewster, Massachusetts is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.11 percent of residents in 02631 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 12.40 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brewster, MA (ZIP Code 02631)

The serene coastal town of Brewster, Massachusetts, offers a quintessential New England experience. However, for residents managing hypertension, the idyllic setting presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 02631, focusing on its impact on individuals seeking timely and consistent medical care, particularly those requiring frequent visits for hypertension management. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential healthcare.

Brewster’s geographic isolation, while contributing to its charm, significantly influences **transportation** options. The primary arteries serving the town are Route 6A, a scenic coastal road, and Route 137, providing a more direct inland route. Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway, offers faster access to regional hubs but is often congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. These roadways are crucial for navigating to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities.

For residents with private vehicles, the commute to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas varies. The nearest hospitals, Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis and Falmouth Hospital, are approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions on Route 6. Local medical practices and pharmacies are more readily accessible, typically within a 10- to 20-minute drive along Route 6A or Route 137. However, even these shorter trips can become problematic for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing acute hypertension symptoms.

Public **transportation** options in Brewster are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates the Flex Route, a demand-response service, offering door-to-door transportation within a specific service area. This service can be useful for individuals with mobility challenges or those who do not drive. However, the Flex Route requires advance booking, potentially hindering immediate access to care during a hypertensive crisis. The CCRTA also provides the Route 6A bus, which runs along the main thoroughfare, connecting Brewster to other towns on the Cape. This bus service is not frequent, especially during off-peak hours, and may not be ideal for those with urgent medical needs. ADA-accessible features are available on CCRTA buses, enhancing their usability for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Brewster, but their reliability can be inconsistent. Availability is often influenced by the time of day, the season, and the driver pool in the area. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments, particularly for individuals with hypertension, can be risky due to potential delays or unavailability. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate significantly over time, adding to the financial burden of managing a chronic condition.

Medical **transportation** services provide a specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. Companies such as MedStar and FirstLight Home Care offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding same-day appointments. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, potentially posing a barrier to **healthcare access** for low-income residents.

Individuals **moving to Brewster** with pre-existing conditions like hypertension should carefully consider the **transportation** landscape. The town's relative remoteness and the limitations of public **transportation** highlight the importance of reliable personal vehicles or readily available alternative options. Proximity to medical facilities, the availability of pharmacies, and the accessibility of **transportation** services are all critical factors in managing hypertension effectively.

The challenges of **healthcare access** in Brewster are further compounded by the seasonal influx of tourists. During the summer months, traffic congestion increases significantly, extending drive times and potentially delaying access to medical care. This seasonal variability adds another layer of complexity to the **transportation** equation, requiring residents to plan their appointments and travel accordingly.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the **transportation** challenges. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a complete solution, as it cannot replace the need for physical examinations, blood tests, and other in-person procedures.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Brewster also includes the availability of local pharmacies. Convenient access to pharmacies is essential for individuals managing hypertension, as it ensures timely access to medications and refills. The presence of pharmacies in Brewster and nearby towns, along with the availability of mail-order prescriptions, can ease the burden of medication management.

The overall impact of these factors on a resident's ability to manage hypertension can be quantified using a "Hypertension Score." This score considers the following factors: the average drive time to the nearest hospital, the frequency and reliability of public **transportation**, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the proximity of pharmacies.

To calculate the Hypertension Score for Brewster (ZIP code 02631), we consider the following:

* **Drive Time:** Average 30-45 minutes to Cape Cod Hospital (weighted heavily due to emergency needs).
* **Public Transportation:** Limited CCRTA bus service and Flex Route (moderate weight due to limited frequency and advance booking requirements).
* **Ride-sharing:** Variable availability and potentially high cost (moderate weight).
* **Medical Transport:** Available but expensive and requires pre-booking (moderate weight).
* **Pharmacy Access:** Local pharmacies are readily available (positive factor).

Based on these factors, the Hypertension Score for Brewster, MA (02631) is a **Moderate** score. While local pharmacies and some **transportation** options are available, the distance to hospitals, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The seasonal influx of tourists further complicates matters, potentially increasing drive times and the demand for available services.

In conclusion, while Brewster offers a desirable quality of life, individuals with hypertension must carefully assess the **transportation** and **healthcare access** challenges. Planning for medical appointments, considering alternative **transportation** options, and proactively managing medication refills are crucial for successful hypertension management in this charming but geographically isolated community. The **Hypertension Score** serves as a useful tool for prospective residents and current residents alike, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare in Brewster.