02738, Marion, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02738, Marion, Massachusetts is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.63 percent of residents in 02738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 19.93 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marion, MA (ZIP Code 02738)

The quiet coastal town of Marion, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02738), beckons with its historic charm and serene harbor. However, for residents managing hypertension, the reality of accessing consistent healthcare, a cornerstone of disease management, requires careful consideration of transportation options. This write-up analyzes the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, to provide a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of obtaining necessary medical care. The score will consider the time and effort required to reach medical facilities, ultimately impacting the ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency care. This necessitates an understanding of the available transportation options within and around Marion. The ability to quickly reach a doctor's office, pharmacy, or hospital can significantly influence the success of managing blood pressure and preventing complications. This is especially crucial for those who may experience sudden health events or require regular monitoring.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation in Marion. The town's central location offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities, yet the specifics are important. The primary thoroughfare is **Route 6**, which serves as the main artery for east-west travel. Heading west on Route 6, one can reach the major medical centers in New Bedford, approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. These centers include St. Luke's Hospital and various specialist practices.

Traveling east on Route 6 leads to Wareham, a 15-20 minute drive, with access to Tobey Hospital and additional medical services. **Route 195**, a major highway, is accessible via Route 6, further expanding the reach to healthcare facilities in Fall River and beyond. The drive to Boston, with its extensive medical infrastructure, is approximately an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily via Route 195 and I-93.

Local roads, like **County Road** and **Spring Street**, provide access to local pharmacies and primary care physicians within Marion itself. However, these routes can become congested during peak hours, potentially adding to travel times. The overall driving experience is generally manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles necessitates consideration of vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and the ability to drive safely, particularly for those with health conditions.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Marion are limited but available. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, though its routes and frequency are less extensive than in larger urban areas. The primary route serving Marion is the **Route 11** bus, which connects the town to New Bedford. This route operates on a limited schedule, with reduced service on weekends and holidays.

The accessibility of the Route 11 bus is a critical factor. The SRTA strives to provide accessible services, including vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of the route and the potential for delays can pose challenges for individuals with hypertension, especially those requiring timely access to medical care. The bus ride to New Bedford takes approximately 45 minutes, adding to the overall travel time.

**ADA Compliance:**

The SRTA is committed to ADA compliance, ensuring its buses are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes features like ramps or lifts for wheelchair users, priority seating, and audio-visual announcements. However, the actual experience of using public transportation can vary. Factors such as weather conditions, traffic delays, and the availability of accessible stops can impact the ease and reliability of the service.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Marion area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. Some insurance plans cover medical transportation, making it a more accessible option for some individuals.

**Ride-Share Brands:**

Uber and Lyft are the primary ride-share brands operating in the Marion area. However, their availability can be inconsistent, and surge pricing may occur during peak hours or periods of high demand. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport companies serve the Marion area. These companies typically offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. Some common brands include:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Provides NEMT services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Careline Transportation:** Offers transportation for medical appointments and other healthcare-related needs.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Some local ambulance services may offer NEMT services as well.

**Hypertension Score Considerations:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Marion (ZIP Code 02738) is influenced by several factors:

* **Drive Times:** Relatively short drive times to nearby medical facilities in New Bedford and Wareham provide a moderate advantage. However, reliance on personal vehicles and potential traffic congestion can be a drawback.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options with the Route 11 bus route pose a challenge, particularly due to infrequent service and potential delays.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative but may be subject to availability and cost fluctuations.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services provide a specialized option but require advance booking and may involve associated costs.
* **Accessibility:** While SRTA strives for ADA compliance, the practical experience of using public transportation can vary.

**Conclusion: Moving to Marion**

Moving to Marion, Massachusetts, offers a desirable lifestyle with its coastal charm and community spirit. However, for individuals managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. While the town benefits from relatively short drive times to nearby medical facilities, the limited public transportation options and the potential for ride-sharing challenges necessitate careful planning. The "Hypertension Score" for Marion would reflect a moderate level of accessibility, requiring a proactive approach to healthcare management, including exploring all available transportation options and establishing a reliable network of support. This ensures the ability to access timely and consistent medical care, essential for effectively managing hypertension and maintaining a healthy lifestyle in this beautiful coastal community.