02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.69 percent of residents in 02748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Anne's Hospital with a distance of 12.47 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 02748

The decision to move to South Dartmouth, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02748), presents a myriad of considerations, from property values to community vibes. For individuals managing hypertension, a critical factor becomes **healthcare access**, and specifically, the ease with which one can reach essential medical appointments. This "Hypertension Score" delves into the **transportation** landscape, evaluating the practicalities of commuting to healthcare providers within and around 02748, offering insights for those prioritizing convenient and reliable access to care.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of South Dartmouth is Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare. Its relatively consistent traffic flow, particularly outside of peak commuting hours, makes it a generally reliable route for reaching medical facilities. However, the presence of traffic lights and occasional congestion can add minutes to travel times, especially during the morning and afternoon commutes.

Further north, Route 195 provides a faster, limited-access option. While offering quicker travel times to some destinations, it may require navigating local roads to reach specific healthcare providers. The choice between Route 6 and Route 195 often depends on the destination and the time of day.

For those residing in the southern reaches of 02748, the proximity to Padanaram Village provides convenient access to local businesses, including some primary care physicians. This localized access minimizes the need for extensive travel, offering a significant advantage for individuals managing hypertension.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the location within 02748 and the specific provider. Reaching St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, a major regional healthcare hub, typically takes approximately 15-25 minutes via Route 6, depending on traffic conditions. Dartmouth Medical Associates, a large primary care practice, is accessible within 10-15 minutes, also via Route 6. Smaller clinics and specialist offices located closer to the center of South Dartmouth offer even shorter drive times, often under 10 minutes.

Public **transportation** options in 02748 are limited, primarily relying on the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) bus system. Route 10 provides service along Route 6, connecting South Dartmouth to New Bedford and Fall River. While this route offers a viable option for those without personal vehicles, it’s crucial to consider its limitations.

SRTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, frequency can be a concern, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently, especially during evenings and weekends. This can significantly impact the practicality of relying on public transit for regular medical appointments. The bus route may also require transfers, adding travel time and complexity, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 02748, offering an alternative to driving or using public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times and offering door-to-door service. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further inflate costs.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer another option. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring safe and comfortable transport. Companies like MedStar and First Transit operate in the region, offering specialized transportation for medical appointments. However, these services typically require advance booking and may be subject to eligibility requirements.

The "Hypertension Score" for 02748 considers the following factors: drive times to key healthcare providers, the availability and reliability of public transit, the accessibility and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation options.

Individuals with hypertension require consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication management, and potential specialist appointments. The convenience and reliability of **transportation** directly impact the ability to adhere to these crucial appointments.

The ideal scenario involves easy access to a primary care physician, ideally within a short drive. Proximity to pharmacies for medication refills is also a significant consideration. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and endocrinologists, within a reasonable travel distance is another key factor.

For those relying on public transit, the frequency, reliability, and accessibility of the bus routes are paramount. The availability of ADA-compliant features is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. The ability to easily transfer between routes, if necessary, is also crucial.

Ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative, but the cost and availability of drivers can be significant considerations. Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution, but their eligibility requirements and advance booking needs must be taken into account.

South Dartmouth's location, nestled between New Bedford and Dartmouth, offers a mixed bag of **healthcare access** opportunities. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within the area is generally good, but travel times to larger hospitals and specialized care centers may require careful planning.

The reliance on personal vehicles is high, given the limitations of public transit. The affordability of ride-sharing services and the availability of medical **transportation** options are important considerations for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

Moving to South Dartmouth requires a careful assessment of one’s individual needs and preferences. For individuals managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for evaluating the **transportation** landscape and ensuring convenient and reliable access to essential healthcare services. This proactive approach ensures that the decision to move aligns with the critical need for ongoing medical care, allowing residents to thrive in their new community.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a single number but a holistic assessment, considering the interplay of various factors. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available options, and tailoring the **transportation** strategy to individual needs. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure that their **healthcare access** needs are met, allowing them to embrace the benefits of **moving to South Dartmouth** with confidence.