02919, Johnston, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02919, Johnston, Rhode Island is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.91 percent of residents in 02919 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Fatima Hospital with a distance of 1.83 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnston, RI (ZIP Code 02919)

Johnston, Rhode Island, nestled in the heart of Providence County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the complexities of accessing healthcare within ZIP code 02919, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient outcomes. Understanding these nuances is critical for residents, particularly those considering moving to Johnston, as it directly affects their ability to maintain consistent medical care.

Our focus, the Hypertension Score, considers the ease of accessing healthcare appointments, pharmacies, and related services. This score, although not a formal metric, reflects the practical challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure. It considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, all crucial factors in ensuring timely and regular healthcare access for those managing hypertension.

For residents of Johnston, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is undoubtedly the automobile. Several major roadways traverse the area, directly influencing travel times. Interstate 295, the major artery, provides quick access to healthcare facilities in neighboring communities like Providence, Cranston, and Smithfield. However, peak traffic hours, especially during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting medication schedules and appointment adherence.

The average drive time to the nearest major hospitals, such as Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital in Providence, can range from 15 to 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, utilizing I-295 and connecting roads like Route 6 and Route 146. However, these times can easily double during rush hour, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration of alternative routes. Local roads, including Greenville Avenue and Atwood Avenue, offer alternative routes, but they are often congested, particularly near commercial areas.

Public transportation in Johnston, while available, presents limitations. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service throughout the area, but the frequency and route coverage are not as extensive as in more urbanized areas. Several bus routes, including the 20, 28, and 29, serve Johnston, offering connections to Providence and other surrounding communities. However, these routes often have limited weekend and evening service, posing challenges for those with appointments outside of typical business hours.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. RIPTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, navigating the bus system requires careful planning, especially for those with mobility limitations. The distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities, coupled with potential waiting times, can add significant challenges to the overall commute.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering flexibility and convenience. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. Availability may also be limited during peak hours or in less populated areas, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services cater to patients who may have mobility limitations or require medical support during transit. Several providers operate in the Johnston area, including commercial ambulance services and NEMT companies. However, these services often require prior arrangements and may involve additional costs.

Pharmacies are readily accessible within Johnston, with several national chains and local pharmacies offering prescription services. Drive times to pharmacies are generally short, with most residents having access to a pharmacy within a 10-15 minute drive. However, the availability of specific medications and the need for refills require careful planning and coordination.

The Hypertension Score for Johnston, RI (02919) is moderately challenging. While the area benefits from relatively easy access to major roadways and a network of local roads, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create potential barriers to healthcare access. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers an alternative, but costs and availability may be a concern. The presence of pharmacies and medical transportation services provides additional support, but they require careful planning and coordination. For individuals considering moving to Johnston, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial.

Individuals managing hypertension must consider their ability to navigate the transportation landscape. This includes assessing their access to a reliable vehicle, their comfort level with public transit, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services. Planning for potential delays, such as traffic congestion or public transit disruptions, is essential.

Furthermore, individuals should familiarize themselves with the location of healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services. Understanding the availability of parking, the accessibility of facilities, and the operating hours of pharmacies is crucial for successful healthcare management.

For those with mobility limitations, careful consideration of ADA-compliant features on public transit and the availability of medical transport services is paramount. Planning for assistance with transportation, if needed, is essential to ensure timely and regular access to healthcare appointments.

The healthcare landscape in Johnston, RI, offers a blend of opportunities and challenges. While the area boasts a relatively convenient location with access to major roadways, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion require careful consideration. Residents, particularly those managing hypertension, must proactively assess their transportation needs, plan for potential delays, and leverage available resources to ensure consistent and timely access to healthcare. The ability to navigate these complexities is key to maintaining optimal health and well-being.