02874, Saunderstown, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02874, Saunderstown, Rhode Island is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.01 percent of residents in 02874 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 6.15 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saunderstown (ZIP Code 02874)

Saunderstown, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02874), a picturesque coastal community, offers residents a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing **healthcare access** is crucial, especially for those managing hypertension. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" for Saunderstown, considering **transportation** options to medical facilities, vital for consistent care. This is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Saunderstown**, who need to understand the practicalities of accessing healthcare.

The Hypertension Score considers factors impacting timely and reliable access to medical care, including drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport options. It's essential for individuals with hypertension to receive regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care. This score, therefore, aims to illuminate the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare landscape in Saunderstown.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Saunderstown are Route 1 and Route 4. Route 1, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers direct access to medical facilities in North Kingstown and South Kingstown. Route 4, a limited-access highway, provides a quicker route to Providence and its concentration of specialized medical services. The efficiency of these routes, however, is highly dependent on traffic conditions.

During peak commuting hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. A routine 15-minute drive to a local primary care physician in North Kingstown might stretch to 30 minutes or more. Similarly, the 30-minute drive to Providence for specialized appointments could easily become an hour, impacting the patient's ability to adhere to appointment schedules.

For residents of Saunderstown, understanding these traffic patterns is critical. Utilizing real-time traffic applications, like Google Maps or Waze, is essential for planning appointments and ensuring timely arrival. Alternative routes, such as using local roads to bypass congested areas, can also be considered, though these may add distance and complexity to the journey.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transit options in Saunderstown are limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but the frequency and coverage in this area are not extensive. Route 64, which connects to Wickford Junction train station, is the primary route serving Saunderstown. This route offers a connection to the MBTA commuter rail, providing access to Providence and Boston.

However, the bus frequency on Route 64 is limited, with buses running approximately every hour or two, particularly during off-peak times. This can make it challenging for those needing to schedule appointments. The bus stops in Saunderstown are generally accessible, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, but the limited frequency and potential for delays can create accessibility barriers.

For individuals with hypertension who rely on public transit, meticulous planning is required. Checking the RIPTA website or app for real-time updates, allowing ample time for travel, and considering potential delays are crucial. The bus service, while present, may not be a practical option for all healthcare needs, particularly for urgent situations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Saunderstown. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Residents should compare the cost of ride-sharing with other options, such as driving, public transit, or medical transport services.

Medical transport services, such as Med-Van and other specialized providers, are available for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with patient needs. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access in Context: A Holistic View**

The Hypertension Score for Saunderstown is not solely determined by the availability of **transportation** options. Other factors, such as the proximity of medical facilities, the availability of specialists, and the presence of urgent care centers, also play a role.

Saunderstown is relatively close to medical facilities in North Kingstown, South Kingstown, and East Greenwich. These facilities offer primary care, urgent care, and some specialized services. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, may require travel to Providence or other larger cities.

The presence of urgent care centers is a significant advantage, providing immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions. These centers can be a valuable resource for individuals with hypertension, offering timely care for acute issues.

**Scoring the Landscape: A Practical Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Saunderstown, considering the factors discussed, is moderately favorable. While the community enjoys the benefits of a scenic location, the **transportation** challenges require careful consideration.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. Drive times to local medical facilities are generally manageable, but traffic congestion can impact efficiency.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. RIPTA service is available but infrequent and may not be a reliable option for all healthcare needs.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** Variable. Ride-sharing is available, but availability and cost can vary. Medical transport services are available but require pre-booking and may be more expensive.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** Moderate. Local medical facilities are accessible, but access to specialized care may require travel to Providence.

For individuals with hypertension **moving to Saunderstown**, a proactive approach to healthcare access is recommended. This includes:

* Identifying primary care physicians and specialists in advance.
* Familiarizing oneself with **transportation** options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing availability.
* Utilizing real-time traffic applications to plan appointments.
* Considering the use of medical transport services if needed.

The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in Saunderstown. By carefully considering these factors, residents can proactively manage their health and ensure timely access to the care they need. The success of managing hypertension in Saunderstown requires a multi-faceted approach, combining proactive health management with informed **transportation** planning.