02649, Mashpee, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02649, Mashpee, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.42 percent of residents in 02649 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 8.16 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mashpee (ZIP Code 02649)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates reliable and efficient access to healthcare. This write-up, tailored for those considering a move to Mashpee, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02649), examines the critical element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents managing their condition. We aim to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering various **transportation** options and their suitability for regular medical appointments.

Mashpee, a charming town nestled on Cape Cod, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its relative remoteness presents unique considerations for healthcare. The ability to consistently and conveniently reach medical providers is paramount for effective hypertension management, which often requires frequent check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist consultations. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is crucial for anyone moving to Mashpee, especially those with existing health concerns.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** in Mashpee. The town is primarily served by Route 28, a major thoroughfare that stretches across Cape Cod. This road provides access to essential services and healthcare facilities. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak seasons, can significantly impact drive times.

Traveling to Falmouth Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 28. The journey to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, offering a wider range of specialized services, can range from 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. During the summer months, these drive times can easily double due to increased tourist traffic. Route 130 provides a secondary route, offering alternative access to Route 28 and reducing congestion, but it can also be subject to delays.

The condition of these roadways is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present challenges, necessitating careful driving and potentially impacting appointment schedules. The availability of ample parking at most healthcare facilities is another positive factor, easing the stress associated with appointments. For residents managing hypertension, the ability to quickly and safely access their healthcare providers is essential.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Mashpee are limited but exist. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates the Flex Route, a demand-response service that provides curb-to-curb **transportation** within specific zones. While this service can be useful for some, its availability is subject to scheduling and may not always align with the rigid schedules of medical appointments.

The CCRTA also offers fixed-route bus service, but the routes and frequency are limited, primarily serving major towns like Hyannis and Falmouth. These routes might not be directly accessible from all areas of Mashpee and often require transfers, potentially increasing travel time and complexity. The CCRTA buses are ADA-accessible, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and potential for longer travel times might make public transit less ideal for individuals managing hypertension who require frequent and timely access to healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Mashpee, providing an alternative to driving or public **transportation**. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, common during periods of high demand, can also make ride-sharing a costly option for regular medical appointments.

Several medical **transportation** companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These companies often offer door-to-door service, specifically designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. While NEMT services can provide a valuable solution, they often require advance booking and may involve costs not covered by insurance. Familiarizing oneself with local NEMT providers, such as Cape Cod Medical Transportation or A-1 Medical Transportation, is crucial for those who might need this type of service.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Mashpee (ZIP Code 02649) is influenced by the interplay of these **transportation** factors. While the town offers a relatively peaceful environment, its reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** can create challenges for **healthcare access**, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The score would consider the average drive times to key healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public **transportation**, the accessibility and cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of NEMT options. Factors like traffic congestion, seasonal variations, and weather conditions would also be incorporated.

For individuals considering **moving to Mashpee** with pre-existing hypertension, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is paramount. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their comfort level with public **transportation**, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or NEMT services. Researching the proximity of primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and other essential healthcare providers is also critical.

**Recommendations for Effective Hypertension Management:**

To optimize **healthcare access** in Mashpee for individuals with hypertension, several strategies are recommended.

* **Establish a strong relationship with a local primary care physician:** This ensures regular check-ups, medication management, and timely referrals to specialists.
* **Explore the feasibility of telehealth appointments:** Telemedicine can reduce the need for in-person visits for certain consultations and follow-ups.
* **Investigate the availability of home healthcare services:** This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance with medication management.
* **Familiarize oneself with local pharmacies and their delivery services:** This ensures convenient access to medications and refills.
* **Plan ahead for appointments, considering potential traffic delays and weather conditions:** This minimizes stress and ensures timely arrival.
* **Consider joining local community groups or organizations that offer support and resources for individuals with chronic conditions:** These groups can provide valuable information and peer support.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively planning for their **transportation** needs, individuals **moving to Mashpee** with hypertension can successfully manage their condition and enjoy the benefits of this beautiful Cape Cod community. The key lies in understanding the **transportation** landscape and proactively adapting to its challenges to ensure consistent and reliable **healthcare access**.