02702, Assonet, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.28 percent of residents in 02702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 6.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Assonet (02702)

The journey to maintaining optimal health, especially when managing hypertension, is often intertwined with the accessibility of healthcare. For residents of Assonet, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02702), this journey is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of obtaining necessary medical attention.

Assonet, a charming village nestled within the town of Freetown, offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban centers. However, this geographical positioning presents a complex transportation puzzle, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The ability to quickly and reliably reach healthcare providers for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergencies is paramount. Therefore, understanding the transportation infrastructure is crucial.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

The primary mode of transportation in Assonet is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The convenience of a car allows for flexible scheduling and direct routes to various healthcare facilities. However, drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day.

Accessing healthcare in nearby Fall River, a major healthcare hub, typically involves navigating the roadways. Traveling along Route 140, a major artery connecting Assonet to the city, is often the most direct route. During peak hours, however, this route can become congested, adding significant time to the commute. Alternatively, residents can utilize Route 24, a limited-access highway, which offers a faster, albeit sometimes more circuitous, path. The drive to Fall River's hospitals, such as Saint Anne's Hospital or Charlton Memorial Hospital, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traveling to New Bedford, another significant healthcare center, presents a similar scenario. Route 140 provides a direct link, but traffic congestion can be a factor. The drive time to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford can range from 20 to 40 minutes.

For residents seeking specialized care or facilities located further afield, the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and I-95 offer access to Boston and other major cities. However, these routes add considerable travel time and potentially increase the stress associated with managing hypertension.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Assonet are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service to the surrounding areas, but its routes and frequency are not always ideal for healthcare access.

The primary SRTA route serving Assonet is Route 10, which connects Fall River and New Bedford. While this route provides a connection to healthcare facilities in both cities, the frequency of service may not be sufficient for regular appointments or urgent needs. Furthermore, the bus stops may not be conveniently located for all residents, requiring additional walking or other forms of transportation to reach the nearest stop.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. SRTA buses are equipped with features such as ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the overall accessibility of the system depends on factors such as the availability of accessible bus stops and the ability of drivers to assist passengers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular transportation options. However, the availability of these services in Assonet can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transportation due to their medical condition. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score:**

Based on the transportation options available in Assonet, the "Hypertension Score" would reflect a moderate level of accessibility to healthcare. While personal vehicles offer the most flexibility, the reliance on driving can be a challenge for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The limited public transit options and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

For individuals moving to Assonet, or those already residing there, careful consideration of transportation needs is essential. Proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ability to manage travel time are all crucial factors in effectively managing hypertension.

The ease of access to healthcare is a crucial component of overall well-being, and it is a significant factor in the lives of those managing hypertension. The choices available in Assonet provide a mix of advantages and disadvantages, requiring careful planning and consideration to ensure a healthy and fulfilling life.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the "Hypertension Score" for Assonet residents, several initiatives could be considered. Expanding the frequency and coverage of SRTA bus routes, particularly those connecting to healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be explored. Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would greatly enhance healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a transportation environment that supports the health and well-being of all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. By addressing the transportation challenges, the community can foster a healthier and more accessible healthcare landscape.