02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.92 percent of residents in 02637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 3.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Cummaquid, MA (ZIP Code 02637) and Healthcare Access

The quaint coastal village of Cummaquid, Massachusetts, nestled within the 02637 ZIP code, offers a picturesque setting for those seeking respite and a slower pace of life. However, the idyllic charm masks a crucial consideration for residents, particularly those managing hypertension: the accessibility of healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services.

The score considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension within this specific geographic area. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Cummaquid or those already residing there, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** in and out of Cummaquid are Route 6A, a scenic byway hugging the coastline, and Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway, which provides faster, though often congested, access to the broader Cape Cod region. The drive to the nearest major hospitals, Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis and Falmouth Hospital, presents varying challenges.

Driving to Cape Cod Hospital, approximately 15 miles east, typically takes 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During peak tourist season, this commute can easily stretch to an hour or more, significantly impacting the timeliness of **healthcare access**. Route 6A offers a more leisurely, but potentially slower, alternative, especially during the summer months when traffic crawls through the charming villages along the way. The journey to Falmouth Hospital, roughly 40 miles west, takes a considerably longer time, typically 50 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This longer commute adds further complexity for those needing regular medical attention.

Public **transportation** options in Cummaquid are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus service, but the routes are infrequent and primarily designed to serve the larger towns and tourist destinations. Route 7, the Barnstable/Hyannis route, offers the most direct connection to Cape Cod Hospital, but the schedule is limited, with buses running less frequently on weekends and evenings. ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, are available on CCRTA buses, making them an option for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers can significantly extend travel times, potentially exacerbating challenges for those with chronic conditions like hypertension.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cummaquid, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or during inclement weather. Securing a ride can be challenging, and surge pricing during peak demand can make these services expensive. This presents another layer of complexity for those requiring immediate or scheduled medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a potential alternative to driving, it is not a guaranteed solution, particularly for those who rely on consistent and predictable **transportation**.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are typically reserved for those who cannot safely drive themselves or use public **transportation**. While these services provide a vital lifeline for those with mobility limitations or other medical needs, they can be costly and require pre-planning and coordination.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within Cummaquid itself is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. While Cummaquid offers some local medical services, the range of specialists and the availability of advanced medical treatments are limited. Residents often need to travel to Hyannis or other larger towns for specialized care, further compounding the **transportation** challenges.

The "Hypertension Score" for Cummaquid, MA (02637) reflects the cumulative impact of these factors. The score considers the drive times to hospitals, the limitations of public **transportation**, the uncertainty of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical **transportation** services. It also factors in the availability of local medical services and the need for travel to access specialized care.

The score is not a static number but a reflection of the dynamic interplay between geographic location, available resources, and individual circumstances. For someone with well-controlled hypertension and access to reliable personal **transportation**, the score might be relatively favorable. However, for an elderly individual with mobility limitations and limited access to personal **transportation**, the score could be significantly lower, indicating considerable challenges in accessing timely and convenient healthcare.

Considering the factors outlined, the "Hypertension Score" for Cummaquid is moderate. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in **transportation** options and the need to travel for specialized care present significant challenges for those managing hypertension. Individuals considering moving to Cummaquid should carefully assess their healthcare needs and **transportation** options, considering the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical attention. Planning for potential delays, exploring alternative **transportation** options, and establishing relationships with local healthcare providers are crucial steps in ensuring adequate **healthcare access** in this charming but geographically isolated community. The journey to **healthcare access** for those managing hypertension in Cummaquid requires careful planning and proactive engagement with the available resources.