02802, Albion, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02802, Albion, Rhode Island is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.35 percent of residents in 02802 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 32.34 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Albion, ZIP Code 02802

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, is inextricably linked to accessible healthcare. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within ZIP code 02802, Albion, Rhode Island, focusing on its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding these transportation nuances is crucial, especially for those considering moving to Albion and seeking to ensure consistent medical care.

Albion, a small village nestled within the town of Lincoln, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. Its relative isolation, coupled with the specific needs of individuals managing hypertension, demands a thorough examination of available options. The goal is to determine a "Hypertension Score," a metric reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical appointments, pharmacies, and related services.

The primary mode of transportation in Albion is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, however, can present obstacles. Interstate 295, a major artery, offers relatively swift access to Providence, the state's healthcare hub. However, rush hour congestion on I-295, particularly near the junction with Route 146, can significantly extend travel times. Route 146 itself, a busy highway, provides a more direct route to Providence, but is prone to heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting periods. Local roads, like Smithfield Road and Great Road, offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and more susceptible to traffic delays.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. Reaching the nearest hospitals, such as Rhode Island Hospital or Miriam Hospital in Providence, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Specialist appointments, often concentrated in Providence, can require even longer travel times. Regular blood pressure checks, medication refills, and specialist consultations are essential for hypertension management, and the time required to travel to these services directly impacts patient adherence and overall health outcomes.

Public transportation, while present, offers a less comprehensive solution. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service in the area. Route 28, the most relevant route for Albion residents, connects the village to Providence. However, the frequency of Route 28 is limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. The bus ride itself can take upwards of an hour, significantly longer than driving, and the reliance on scheduled stops may not align with the urgency often associated with healthcare needs. ADA accessibility is a key feature of RIPTA buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service. However, the inherent limitations of public transit, such as route availability and travel time, pose a significant challenge for those with hypertension.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative. While readily available in the Providence area, their presence in Albion can be less consistent. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make these services expensive, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing, particularly for scheduled medical appointments, is not always guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit provide transportation for individuals requiring assistance. These services often offer door-to-door service and are equipped to handle mobility challenges. However, they typically require advance booking and can be costly, potentially impacting the Hypertension Score.

Pharmacies are another crucial element of healthcare access. While Albion has local pharmacies, access to specialized medications or a wider range of services may necessitate travel to pharmacies in Providence. The drive times and transportation challenges associated with reaching these pharmacies further contribute to the overall Hypertension Score.

The availability of grocery stores and healthy food options also indirectly influences the Hypertension Score. Access to fresh produce and healthy food choices is critical for managing hypertension. Limited access to these resources in Albion could necessitate travel to larger supermarkets in neighboring towns, further complicating the transportation equation.

The Hypertension Score for Albion, ZIP code 02802, is therefore a complex calculation. It must consider the following factors: the availability and reliability of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the accessibility and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and the proximity to healthcare facilities and pharmacies.

For individuals considering moving to Albion, understanding this transportation landscape is paramount. While the village offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the distance to healthcare facilities and the limitations of public transportation should be carefully considered. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations may find it challenging to manage their hypertension effectively.

The score will be impacted by the following:

* **Drive times:** The average time required to reach primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and hospitals.
* **Public transit:** The frequency, reliability, and accessibility of RIPTA Route 28.
* **Ride-sharing:** The availability, cost, and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical transportation:** The availability, cost, and ease of booking medical transportation services.
* **Pharmacy access:** The proximity and accessibility of local pharmacies and pharmacies in Providence.
* **Grocery access:** The availability of healthy food options and the ease of reaching grocery stores.

The final Hypertension Score for Albion, ZIP code 02802, will reflect the overall ease and efficiency with which residents can access essential healthcare services. This score will be a valuable tool for both current residents and those considering moving to Albion, providing a clear picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities associated with managing hypertension in this unique community. The need for accessible transportation is vital for anyone looking to move to Albion.