02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.53 percent of residents in 02764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 3.74 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in North Dighton (ZIP Code 02764)

The quest for optimal health, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension, necessitates reliable and efficient healthcare access. In North Dighton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02764), the ability to navigate the transportation landscape becomes a critical factor in controlling blood pressure and maintaining overall well-being. This write-up delves into the transportation options available to residents of this community, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on commute times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to North Dighton, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and consistent healthcare.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in proximity. For residents of 02764, the nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are primarily situated in Taunton, Fall River, and Attleboro. The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Route 138, Route 104, and the more significant Interstate 495. Driving times, of course, fluctuate depending on traffic conditions, but generally, a trip to Morton Hospital in Taunton, a common destination for healthcare needs, takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 138.

Heading south to Fall River, the journey to Saint Anne's Hospital extends to roughly 25-30 minutes, primarily utilizing Route 104 and connecting to Route 24. Accessing the more specialized services in Attleboro, such as those offered at Sturdy Memorial Hospital, requires a drive of approximately 20-25 minutes, involving travel on Route 104 and then either Route 152 or Interstate 95. These drive times, while manageable, can be impacted by rush hour congestion, especially on I-495 and Route 24, potentially adding significant delays and stress, which can, ironically, exacerbate hypertension.

Public transportation options in North Dighton, while present, are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but the routes serving 02764 are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Route 138, for example, is a major road with bus stops, but the frequency of service is not conducive to spontaneous appointments or urgent care needs. Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with mobility limitations, a potential concern for those with hypertension-related complications, is a key factor. SRTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), offering accessible vehicles and services, but the limited route coverage can still present challenges.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, their availability and affordability can vary, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of frequent rides to medical appointments can quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden for individuals managing chronic conditions. This is a significant consideration for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources, making ride-sharing a less reliable option for consistent healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local private providers operate in the region. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, the cost of these services can be considerably higher than ride-sharing or public transit, and pre-booking is typically required, which may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" for 02764, we must consider the multifaceted nature of transportation. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are relatively moderate, the limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present challenges. The dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic delays, can add stress to the lives of those managing hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to North Dighton, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs is crucial. Factors such as their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and their financial resources must be carefully considered. The lack of robust public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services could impact the ease with which they can adhere to their healthcare regimens.

The "Hypertension Score" for North Dighton, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the limitations in public transit and the potential costs associated with other transportation options create some barriers to optimal healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension, or those at risk, should carefully weigh these considerations when making decisions about where to live, ensuring they can readily access the medical care they require. The ability to reliably and affordably reach healthcare appointments is paramount in managing hypertension and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Ultimately, the success of managing hypertension in North Dighton hinges on a proactive approach to transportation. Individuals must explore all available options, plan ahead for appointments, and consider the financial implications of their choices. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing their needs, residents of 02764 can navigate the challenges and ensure they receive the timely and consistent healthcare they deserve.