02912, Providence, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02912, Providence, Rhode Island is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.59 percent of residents in 02912 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rhode Island Hospital with a distance of 1.12 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02912**

Navigating the complexities of hypertension management within ZIP code 02912, a Providence, Rhode Island locale, demands a keen understanding of transportation and its influence on healthcare access. This analysis, designed to assess the ease of reaching medical facilities, considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," reflecting the accessibility of care for residents managing this chronic condition.

The foundation of this score lies in drive times. Residents of 02912, particularly those residing in the densely populated areas near the Woonasquatucket River, often rely on personal vehicles. Accessing healthcare facilities, such as Rhode Island Hospital, located south of the zip code, involves navigating the intricate network of roads. The primary artery, Route 146, can become congested, especially during peak hours, adding to the commute time. Other key roads include Smith Street, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Admiral Street, which offers a more direct route to the north.

Traffic patterns, exacerbated by the city’s historic layout, can significantly impact drive times. A trip to a specialist's office in the Elmwood neighborhood, for example, could take upwards of 20 minutes during rush hour, a considerable burden for individuals with hypertension. The condition often necessitates frequent check-ups and medication refills, making efficient transportation critical. The “Hypertension Score” will, therefore, heavily weight the time it takes to reach essential healthcare services by car, taking into account the variability of traffic conditions.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its efficiency varies. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) operates several bus routes within and through 02912. Route 28, running along Smith Street, provides a vital link to downtown Providence, where many specialist offices and hospital services are located. Route 17, traversing Admiral Street, offers another connection to the city center. Route 19, which runs along Chalkstone Avenue, also provides access to healthcare facilities.

However, the reliability of RIPTA can be a concern. Bus schedules are subject to delays, and the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, may not be sufficient for individuals with urgent medical needs. ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. All RIPTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the availability and accessibility of public transit options, considering the potential for delays and the distance to bus stops.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. These services offer on-demand transport, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. Moreover, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further exacerbate costs.

The "Hypertension Score" will incorporate the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, recognizing their potential benefits for individuals needing prompt access to healthcare. The prevalence of medical transport services is also critical. Companies like MedTrans offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans, are specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients requiring non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and luggage. However, the availability of these services and their associated costs must be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the availability and cost of medical transport services, recognizing their critical role in ensuring access to care for individuals with mobility challenges. The score will also consider the overall healthcare landscape in 02912. The proximity of pharmacies for medication refills is a key consideration.

The presence of local pharmacies and their operating hours will be incorporated into the "Hypertension Score." The score will also reflect the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within the zip code or in easily accessible neighboring areas. The availability of telehealth options, which can reduce the need for in-person visits, will also be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" will ultimately reflect a comprehensive assessment of transportation and healthcare access in 02912. The score will be determined by weighing the factors mentioned above, including drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, medical transport options, and the proximity of healthcare facilities and pharmacies. This score aims to provide a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve healthcare access and outcomes for individuals managing hypertension in this Providence neighborhood.

For individuals moving to Providence, understanding the transportation landscape in 02912 is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for evaluating the ease of reaching medical facilities and managing this chronic condition. The score will be updated periodically to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and other relevant factors. The final score will range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest access.