02779, Berkley, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02779, Berkley, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.13 percent of residents in 02779 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 5.14 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Berkley, MA (ZIP Code 02779)

Understanding the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is crucial for residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment for Berkley, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02779), focusing on the ease of reaching essential healthcare services. It analyzes various **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and evaluates their impact on timely medical care, especially for individuals considering **moving to Berkley**.

The “Hypertension Score” is a composite metric reflecting the relative accessibility of healthcare facilities from a central point within 02779. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the availability of medical transport services. Each factor is weighted based on its impact on a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent medical attention. The higher the score, the better the overall access.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Berkley is personal vehicles. The town's layout necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including medical appointments. Accessing healthcare facilities, such as Morton Hospital in Taunton or Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, often involves navigating major roadways.

From a central point in Berkley, such as the town hall, driving to Morton Hospital, a major healthcare provider, requires traversing Route 140 South. The drive, typically 15-25 minutes depending on traffic, is generally straightforward, but potential bottlenecks can occur during peak hours, especially around the intersections with Route 44 and Route 138.

Reaching Sturdy Memorial Hospital involves a slightly longer journey. One would typically take Route 24 North to I-95 North, then to Route 1A North. The drive time, approximately 30-45 minutes, is subject to traffic congestion on I-95, particularly during rush hour. These drive times are critical for individuals with hypertension, as delays can significantly impact their ability to receive timely care in emergencies or for regular check-ups.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians within the surrounding towns, such as Raynham or Taunton, offer alternative options. However, their accessibility also depends on the same road networks, making drive times a crucial consideration. The condition of the roads and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities further influence the overall experience.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Berkley are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but routes within Berkley are sparse and may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities. Bus routes primarily serve the more populated areas of Taunton and Fall River.

Route 11, for instance, connects Taunton to Fall River, potentially offering a partial solution for some residents. However, this route may not provide convenient access to hospitals or specialized clinics. Furthermore, the frequency of bus service is limited, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving, making it a less desirable option for individuals with hypertension who require regular medical attention.

The SRTA buses are generally ADA-accessible, equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules present significant challenges for those relying on public **transportation** for healthcare access. The lack of direct routes to hospitals and the extended travel times can exacerbate health concerns and make it difficult to adhere to medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Berkley and offer an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized **transportation** for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like MedRide and First Transit offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit.

However, medical transport services often require advance booking and may have limited availability. The cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Coordinating these services and ensuring timely arrival for appointments can be complex, adding another layer of challenge for patients managing hypertension.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors described above, the "Hypertension Score" for 02779 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to this assessment.

The drive times to major hospitals, while generally manageable, can be affected by traffic congestion. The lack of convenient public transit options and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services pose additional challenges.

Individuals considering **moving to Berkley** and managing hypertension should carefully evaluate the **transportation** options and their potential impact on healthcare access. They should consider the distance to healthcare providers, the availability of reliable **transportation**, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care.

**Recommendations:**

For residents of 02779 managing hypertension, several strategies can improve healthcare access.

* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance and consider traffic patterns when planning travel.
* **Explore ride-sharing:** Utilize ride-sharing services as needed, especially when driving is not feasible.
* **Investigate medical transport:** Research and familiarize yourself with available medical transport options.
* **Advocate for public transit:** Support efforts to improve public transit options, including increased route coverage and frequency.
* **Consider telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for routine check-ups and consultations.

By understanding the challenges and proactively addressing them, residents of Berkley can navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure they receive the timely and consistent medical care they need to manage their hypertension effectively. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible **transportation** and the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** within the community.