02718, East Taunton, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02718, East Taunton, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.44 percent of residents in 02718 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 12.43 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in East Taunton (ZIP Code 02718)

Moving to a new community, especially one like East Taunton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02718), necessitates careful consideration of various factors impacting your well-being. This write-up specifically addresses the critical element of **healthcare access**, focusing on the practicalities of **transportation** for individuals managing hypertension. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for this area. This score aims to illuminate the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical care, helping you make informed decisions about your move.

The cornerstone of managing hypertension is consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency care. The ease with which you can reach these resources directly influences your ability to effectively manage your condition. Therefore, understanding the **transportation** landscape becomes paramount.

East Taunton, a charming suburban area, is primarily served by roadways. The primary artery connecting the community to larger healthcare hubs is Route 140, a north-south thoroughfare. Driving south on Route 140 provides access to Morton Hospital in Taunton, a crucial healthcare provider for the region. The drive time to Morton Hospital from central East Taunton is typically between 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for residents requiring frequent medical attention.

Further afield, Route 44 offers another vital link, connecting East Taunton to the east towards the city of Plymouth and west towards Taunton and Raynham. This route provides access to a wider range of healthcare facilities, including specialists and urgent care centers. However, the drive time along Route 44 can vary considerably, especially during peak hours. Expect a 20 to 30-minute drive to reach healthcare facilities further along this route.

For those without personal vehicles, the public **transportation** options are more limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the area. While SRTA doesn't have dedicated routes that directly serve East Taunton with high frequency, Route 140 is a main line. Route 140 is the most accessible and runs from the Taunton Green to the Silver City Galleria. This route offers a connection to the Taunton Green, where transfers to other routes may be available, potentially providing access to healthcare facilities.

Unfortunately, the frequency of these routes is not ideal for frequent medical appointments. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key consideration. All SRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and potential for lengthy travel times make relying solely on public transit for hypertension management challenging.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution. These services provide on-demand rides to healthcare facilities. The availability of these services in East Taunton is generally good, although surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can impact costs. The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, but the associated costs need to be factored into your overall healthcare budget.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like First Transit and MedRide are present in the area, offering specialized **transportation** for medical appointments. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

The "Hypertension Score" for East Taunton, considering the **transportation** options, is moderate. The proximity to Morton Hospital via Route 140 offers a significant advantage. The availability of ride-sharing services adds another layer of accessibility. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services present challenges.

The ease of **healthcare access** is a critical factor when **moving to East Taunton**. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care facilities directly impacts your ability to manage your health. While the area offers a mix of **transportation** options, the reliance on personal vehicles or the added expense of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** necessitates careful planning.

The overall score is influenced by the need to factor in the cost of **transportation**, the time it takes to travel to appointments, and the reliability of the available options. For individuals managing hypertension, a reliable and readily available **transportation** system is essential for maintaining their health.

The **healthcare access** situation in East Taunton can be further improved by exploring options such as telehealth appointments, which can reduce the need for in-person visits. Also, exploring the availability of home delivery for medications can also increase convenience.

The final determination of the "Hypertension Score" is a personal one. It depends on your individual needs, mobility, and financial resources. However, this assessment provides a framework for evaluating the **transportation** landscape and its impact on your ability to effectively manage your hypertension in East Taunton.

The key takeaway is that while East Taunton offers reasonable **healthcare access**, careful consideration of **transportation** options is essential for residents managing hypertension. Planning ahead, exploring all available resources, and considering the costs associated with each **transportation** mode will ensure you can maintain optimal health and enjoy your new home in East Taunton.