02790, Westport, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02790, Westport, Massachusetts is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.20 percent of residents in 02790 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 21.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westport, MA (ZIP Code 02790)

The journey to manage hypertension in Westport, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02790) is a multifaceted one, intrinsically linked to the ease with which residents can access healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating its impact on healthcare access and ultimately, influencing the ‘Hypertension Score’ for this coastal community. For individuals considering moving to Westport, understanding these nuances is crucial.

The primary mode of transportation in Westport is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town’s geographical layout, characterized by a blend of rural and suburban environments, necessitates reliance on roadways. Assessing drive times to healthcare facilities is a critical component of our score. Primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies are scattered throughout the region, demanding careful consideration of commute times.

For those residing in the northern reaches of Westport, reaching the nearest healthcare hubs often involves navigating Route 6, the main artery connecting Westport to neighboring towns like Fall River and Dartmouth. Travel times can fluctuate significantly, especially during peak hours. Traffic congestion, particularly near intersections, can lengthen the commute, potentially delaying time-sensitive medical needs.

Conversely, residents in the southern part of Westport, closer to the coastline, may find themselves utilizing Route 88, a scenic route that offers access to healthcare options in Tiverton, Rhode Island. While Route 88 often provides a less congested experience, the distance to certain facilities can still be considerable. The absence of significant public transit options within Westport further emphasizes the importance of individual vehicle ownership.

Public transportation, a crucial element in evaluating healthcare access, presents a limited scope in Westport. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve the Fall River area. Route 35, for instance, offers a connection to Fall River, but its schedule may not align with medical appointments. Furthermore, the lack of extensive ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on some routes could pose a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the significance of alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Westport, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-share vehicles can also be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas of the town.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to healthcare needs, offer another avenue for residents. Companies like MedStar or Access Medical Transportation provide specialized transportation for individuals requiring assistance. These services often accommodate wheelchair users and offer door-to-door assistance, but they typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing options.

The availability of pharmacies is also a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. Convenient access to medication refills is essential for effective hypertension management. Westport has several pharmacies, including national chains and local establishments. The proximity of these pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare providers significantly influences the ease with which residents can obtain their prescribed medications.

The presence of urgent care facilities also plays a role. These facilities offer immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions, providing an alternative to the emergency room. The accessibility of urgent care centers, considering drive times and potential waiting times, impacts the overall healthcare access score.

The location of hospitals is another crucial aspect. The closest major hospitals are located in Fall River and New Bedford. Reaching these facilities necessitates navigating major roadways like Route 195, the primary east-west highway connecting Westport to these cities. Drive times can vary depending on traffic conditions, potentially impacting the timeliness of emergency medical care.

Evaluating the availability of specialized medical services is also vital. Access to cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists is crucial for comprehensive hypertension management. The distance to these specialists, often located in larger cities, influences the overall healthcare access score.

The impact of these transportation factors on the Hypertension Score is multifaceted. Longer commute times, limited public transit options, and the potential cost of ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with limited mobility.

For those considering moving to Westport, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities to potential residences, evaluating the availability of alternative transportation options, and understanding the potential impact of traffic congestion are all crucial steps in determining the suitability of the town for their individual healthcare needs.

The Hypertension Score, therefore, is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents in their journey to manage hypertension. It is a testament to the importance of accessible transportation and the vital link between mobility and healthcare access. A high score signifies a community that prioritizes the well-being of its residents by ensuring that healthcare is within reach, regardless of their transportation limitations.