02806, Barrington, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02806, Barrington, Rhode Island is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.24 percent of residents in 02806 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital with a distance of 3.76 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Barrington, RI (ZIP Code 02806)

Considering a move to the charming coastal town of Barrington, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02806)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and quaint New England character, it's crucial to understand the practicalities of daily life, especially regarding healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, readily available medical care is paramount. This write-up explores the transportation landscape of Barrington, assessing its impact on healthcare accessibility and providing a "Hypertension Score" based on these factors.

The primary focus will be on the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This analysis aims to provide a realistic picture for those seeking to relocate, particularly those with health considerations. Understanding the transportation network is critical to ensuring timely access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

Barrington's location, nestled between Providence and the East Bay, offers convenient access to healthcare facilities. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are Interstate 195 (I-195), the main east-west artery, and Route 114, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traveling to Providence, where numerous hospitals and specialist practices are located, typically involves a drive on I-195.

The drive from Barrington to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a major healthcare provider, generally takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this travel time. Similarly, access to Women & Infants Hospital, also in Providence, involves a similar drive time, potentially impacted by traffic on I-195.

Within Barrington, reaching the local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and urgent care facilities, is generally straightforward. Route 114 provides direct access to many local practices, minimizing travel time and reducing the stress associated with longer commutes. The proximity of these local options is a significant advantage for residents requiring regular check-ups or immediate medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Viable Option**

Rhode Island's public transit system, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), offers bus service within Barrington and to surrounding areas. However, public transportation options are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The primary bus routes serving Barrington are Route 60 (Providence/Newport), Route 92 (East Providence/Cranston), and Route 99 (Barrington/Warren).

While these routes provide connections to Providence and other neighboring towns, the frequency of service can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can make it challenging to rely solely on public transit for medical appointments, especially for those with mobility limitations or specific time constraints.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. RIPTA strives to provide accessible services, with wheelchair-accessible buses and designated stops. However, individuals with disabilities should verify the accessibility of specific routes and stops before relying on public transit for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Barrington. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer not to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The availability of ride-sharing can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for those needing transportation to appointments or medication pick-ups.

For individuals with specific medical needs, medical transportation services are available. These services, often provided by specialized companies, offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they provide a valuable option for those requiring specialized assistance.

**Medical Transportation Brands**

Several medical transportation brands operate in the Barrington area, offering various levels of service. These include:

* **AmbuBus:** A prominent provider, offering non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Care Ride:** Specializing in transportation for individuals with disabilities.
* **Medicaid Transportation Providers:** Several companies are contracted to provide transportation for Medicaid recipients.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Barrington and the surrounding areas is an essential aspect of assessing healthcare access. Several primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities are located within a short drive of Barrington residents. This proximity to local healthcare providers is a significant advantage, reducing travel time and improving access to routine medical care.

In addition to local facilities, the proximity to Providence provides access to a wider range of specialized medical services, including hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized clinics. The ability to access these services within a reasonable timeframe is crucial for managing chronic conditions such as hypertension.

**Moving to Barrington: A Considered Choice**

Relocating to Barrington offers a desirable lifestyle, but it's essential to consider the practicalities of daily living. For individuals managing hypertension, healthcare access is a top priority. The availability of local healthcare providers, coupled with the proximity to Providence's medical facilities, offers a good foundation for healthcare access.

While public transit options are limited, ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offer alternative solutions. The ease of driving to appointments and the availability of these alternative transportation options contribute to a favorable environment for managing hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in Barrington (ZIP code 02806) is **7 out of 10**.

* **Strengths:** Proximity to local healthcare providers, reasonable drive times to Providence hospitals, availability of ride-sharing services.
* **Weaknesses:** Limited public transit options, potential for traffic delays during rush hour.

This score indicates that Barrington offers good healthcare access, but individuals should be aware of the limitations of public transit and plan accordingly. By considering the transportation options and the location of healthcare facilities, individuals can make informed decisions about relocating to Barrington and managing their health effectively.