02916, Rumford, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02916, Rumford, Rhode Island is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.04 percent of residents in 02916 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Miriam Hospital with a distance of 2.19 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rumford (ZIP Code 02916)

The quest for optimal health often hinges on a critical factor: access. In the heart of Rumford, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02916), this access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is intricately woven into the fabric of transportation options. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can access healthcare facilities, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. This is especially crucial for anyone moving to Rumford, as understanding these factors will significantly impact their ability to manage their health.

Rumford's location, nestled within the larger Providence metropolitan area, presents a complex interplay of transportation networks. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south corridor, and Interstate 195 (I-195), which provides east-west access. Within Rumford itself, major thoroughfares like Pawtucket Avenue, Newman Avenue, and North Broadway offer crucial connections to local businesses, residential areas, and, crucially, healthcare providers. These roads, however, can be subject to congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours, potentially impacting the timely arrival of patients to their medical appointments.

Driving times to healthcare facilities within and around ZIP code 02916 are a key component of our "Hypertension Score." The proximity of several hospitals and clinics influences the overall accessibility. For instance, the drive to Rhode Island Hospital, a major medical center, typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Rumford. Kent Hospital, located further south, might require a 20- to 40-minute drive. Local urgent care centers and primary care physician offices are generally more accessible, with drive times often falling within a 10- to 15-minute window. These times, however, can be significantly impacted by the volume of traffic on the aforementioned highways and roads.

Public transportation in Rumford, primarily provided by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), offers an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the area, providing connections to Providence and other surrounding communities. Route 1, for example, travels along Pawtucket Avenue, offering direct access to some healthcare facilities. Route 33, another key route, provides access to the East Side of Providence, where additional medical services are available. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during off-peak hours, can be a significant barrier.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with mobility impairments is a crucial consideration. RIPTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for some patients, especially those with limited mobility or who require frequent medical attention. The "Hypertension Score" must account for these accessibility factors to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access via public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in the area. These services offer a potentially convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who may not own a car or prefer not to drive. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand and the time of day. While ride-sharing can provide door-to-door service, it's essential to factor in the cost, which can be a significant burden for some patients, especially those with limited incomes or who require frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. Several companies operate in the Rumford area, offering specialized transportation for individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with mobility. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit but can provide a crucial service for those who cannot utilize other transportation options. The "Hypertension Score" must consider the availability, cost, and reliability of these medical transportation services.

The "Hypertension Score" must also consider the location of healthcare facilities relative to residential areas within ZIP code 02916. Proximity to healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, is a key determinant of healthcare access. Residents living in certain areas of Rumford may have easier access to healthcare facilities than those residing in other areas. The score should incorporate a geographic analysis of the distribution of healthcare providers and their accessibility from various locations within the ZIP code.

The "Hypertension Score" should also consider the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, or the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability of telehealth options, such as virtual appointments with physicians and remote monitoring of blood pressure, can significantly improve healthcare access for residents of Rumford, especially those with mobility limitations or who live far from healthcare facilities.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 02916 should provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considering all the factors discussed above. This score should serve as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping them to identify areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. For anyone moving to Rumford, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is paramount to successfully managing their health and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the complex interplay of transportation options, geographic considerations, and the availability of telehealth services, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access in this vibrant community.