02642, Eastham, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02642, Eastham, Massachusetts is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.12 percent of residents in 02642 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 31.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 20.04 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Eastham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02642)**

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount, particularly for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis, a “Hypertension Score,” evaluates the transportation landscape within Eastham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02642), a town experiencing increased interest from those considering moving to the area. The score considers the practicality of reaching essential medical appointments, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This assessment is crucial for individuals managing hypertension, as consistent healthcare access is a cornerstone of effective treatment and long-term health management.

Eastham, a picturesque town nestled on Cape Cod, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness necessitates a thorough examination of transportation infrastructure. The “Hypertension Score” considers the challenges faced by residents needing regular medical attention, focusing on the feasibility of reaching primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies. This score will offer a practical guide for current and prospective residents, particularly those prioritizing healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary artery for navigating Eastham is Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway. Driving to healthcare facilities in the area is generally straightforward, but drive times can fluctuate significantly depending on the season and traffic. During the peak summer months, congestion can be substantial, adding considerable time to commutes.

For example, a trip from the northern reaches of Eastham to Cape Cod Healthcare’s Outer Cape Health Services in Wellfleet, a common healthcare destination, could take approximately 15-20 minutes under normal conditions. However, during the summer, this could easily extend to 30 minutes or more, impacting appointment adherence and potentially exacerbating stress for individuals managing hypertension.

Further south, accessing facilities in Orleans, such as the Orleans Medical Group, involves a similar reliance on Route 6. The drive, typically 10-15 minutes, is susceptible to seasonal traffic delays. Even shorter trips within Eastham, for example, to the Eastham Family Practice, are dependent on local road conditions and can be affected by traffic during peak hours or school pick-up and drop-off times.

The town's secondary roads, such as Nauset Road and Brackett Road, offer alternative routes, but these are generally less direct and may not significantly reduce travel times. Furthermore, these roads are often narrower and less well-maintained, potentially posing challenges for those with mobility limitations or driving in inclement weather. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of reliable transportation for healthcare access.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in Eastham are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not extensive. The CCRTA’s Route 11, the "Sealine," runs along Route 6, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns. However, the schedule is limited, with infrequent service, particularly during off-season months.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. CCRTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and priority seating. However, the limited route coverage and the potential for long wait times between buses can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot easily navigate transfers.

The CCRTA also operates the Flex Route service, a demand-response transportation option. This service requires advance booking and is available for trips within the CCRTA service area. It can be a viable option for residents who cannot access fixed-route buses or who need transportation to specific medical appointments. However, the Flex Route requires planning and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Eastham, but their availability can be inconsistent. During peak tourist seasons, the presence of ride-share drivers is generally more robust. However, during off-season months, the wait times and the likelihood of finding a driver can be significantly reduced. This variability presents a challenge for individuals needing reliable transportation to medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a dedicated solution for individuals with specific needs. Companies like MedRide and Cape Cod Medical Transport provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and can be a valuable option for those who cannot drive or use public transportation. However, these services often come with a higher cost than other transportation alternatives.

**The “Hypertension Score” Considerations**

The “Hypertension Score” for Eastham considers the following factors: drive times to key healthcare facilities, the reliability of public transportation, the availability of ride-share services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. The score will be influenced by seasonal variations in traffic and the availability of transportation services.

The score will also consider the proximity of pharmacies and other essential services. Access to medication refills and other healthcare-related errands is crucial for individuals managing hypertension. The availability of local pharmacies and the ease of reaching them will be factored into the overall assessment.

The “Hypertension Score” aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape in Eastham, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. The score will be a dynamic measure, reflecting changes in transportation infrastructure and service availability.

**Conclusion**

For individuals considering moving to Eastham or already residing there, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial, particularly for those managing hypertension. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, healthcare access depends on reliable transportation. The “Hypertension Score” will provide a valuable tool for assessing the feasibility of reaching healthcare facilities, allowing residents to make informed choices and proactively manage their health needs. This analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of healthcare access, ensuring residents of Eastham can receive the care they need.