02838, Manville, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02838, Manville, Rhode Island is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.55 percent of residents in 02838 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kent County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.00 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02838 (Manville, RI)

The journey to effective hypertension management in Manville, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02838), is inextricably linked to transportation. Evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities is paramount for residents managing this chronic condition, and the availability of diverse transportation options significantly impacts their ability to receive timely and consistent care. This write-up delves into the intricacies of navigating the healthcare landscape, assessing drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, ultimately providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access within this specific geographic area.

Manville, a close-knit community nestled in the Blackstone Valley, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The town's location, while offering a sense of tranquility, also dictates the reliance on transportation to reach essential medical services. Assessing the ease with which residents can attend appointments, pick up prescriptions, and participate in preventative care is crucial for understanding the overall quality of life for those managing hypertension.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this method hinges on the condition of roadways and the distance to healthcare providers. The primary arteries for travel include Route 146, a major north-south highway, and Route 116, which traverses the town and connects to surrounding communities.

Traveling to Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, a significant regional healthcare provider, requires navigating Route 146. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive typically takes between 15 and 20 minutes. This journey, while relatively short, can be impacted by rush hour congestion, especially during weekday commutes.

For those seeking specialized care or access to a wider array of services, a trip to Providence, approximately 20 miles south, is often necessary. This commute involves utilizing Route 146 South, and then connecting to I-95. The drive time can vary considerably, ranging from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute highlights the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for delays to impact healthcare access.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the surrounding towns, offering more localized options. Accessing these facilities often involves navigating local roads, such as Manville Road and School Street, which can be subject to traffic and seasonal weather conditions. The convenience of these locations is offset by the potentially limited scope of services available.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Manville, while present, is a limited option for many residents. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of individuals with hypertension.

RIPTA Route 13, for instance, provides service through Manville, connecting to Woonsocket and Providence. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare. Furthermore, the lack of direct routes to specific medical facilities can necessitate multiple transfers, adding to the travel time and complexity.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. RIPTA buses are equipped with features such as ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system remain important factors in evaluating its suitability for those managing hypertension.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. These services can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering a degree of flexibility and convenience. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, also operate in the area. These services, often provided by private companies, offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While medical transport can provide a valuable service, it often comes at a higher cost than other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Manville:**

For individuals considering moving to Manville, the availability of healthcare and the ease of transportation should be carefully considered. The town's location, while offering a sense of community, presents challenges regarding healthcare access. The need to rely on personal vehicles, navigate public transportation, or utilize ride-sharing services can impact the ability to receive timely and consistent care.

The "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 02838 would reflect a nuanced assessment of these factors. It would consider the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the overall convenience of accessing essential medical care.

This score, while not a definitive metric, would provide a valuable framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Manville. It would highlight the importance of reliable transportation, the need for accessible public transportation options, and the potential benefits of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Manville, RI, for individuals managing hypertension requires a multifaceted approach. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services all play a role in determining the ease with which residents can access essential medical care.

Understanding these factors is crucial for promoting preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and ensuring the overall well-being of the community. Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 02838 provides a valuable framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Manville. This score emphasizes the need for accessible and affordable transportation options to ensure that all residents can receive the care they need.