02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.60 percent of residents in 02543 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02543 (Woods Hole, MA)

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 02543, focusing on **healthcare access** as influenced by **transportation** options. Woods Hole, Massachusetts, a charming coastal village, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access due to its geographic isolation and seasonal population fluctuations. Understanding the available transportation infrastructure is crucial for evaluating the health and well-being of its residents.

The primary determinant of a positive health score is timely and reliable access to medical care. This includes routine checkups, specialist appointments, emergency services, and mental health support. The efficacy of the transportation network directly impacts these critical aspects of healthcare access. Factors such as drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions are evaluated to create a comprehensive health score.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Woods Hole is personal vehicles. The primary arteries serving the area are **Massachusetts Route 28** and **Massachusetts Route 6**. Route 28 is the main thoroughfare connecting Woods Hole to Falmouth and beyond, while Route 6 provides access to the upper Cape and mainland Massachusetts. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The nearest hospital, **Falmouth Hospital**, is approximately a 10-15 minute drive from Woods Hole, depending on traffic conditions. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents. However, access to specialized care often requires travel to hospitals in Hyannis (Cape Cod Hospital) or even Boston, which can significantly extend travel times.

During the summer months, the influx of tourists can cause significant traffic congestion, increasing drive times to Falmouth Hospital and other healthcare providers. This can be particularly problematic in emergency situations. Residents and visitors alike must account for potential delays when planning healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in the area are limited but present. The **Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA)** provides bus services throughout Cape Cod, including routes that serve Falmouth. While the CCRTA offers a vital link for some, the routes and schedules may not be ideal for healthcare-related trips.

The **CCRTA's Route 40** offers service between Woods Hole and Hyannis, with stops in Falmouth. The schedule, however, is limited, and the frequency is lower during off-season months. For individuals needing regular medical appointments, the limited schedule might pose a challenge.

The CCRTA buses are equipped with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** features, including ramps and designated seating. This is crucial for ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access is limited.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Woods Hole area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, availability can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing services can be a convenient option for non-emergency appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including **Careline Medical Transport** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**. These services are essential for patients who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation.

Medical transportation services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services provide a critical lifeline for those with mobility limitations, they can be expensive, and availability might be limited, especially during peak demand.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services:**

The availability of healthcare services within Woods Hole itself is limited. Residents typically rely on healthcare providers in Falmouth. The **Falmouth Hospital**, a part of the Cape Cod Healthcare system, provides a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized medical services.

The proximity of Falmouth Hospital is a significant advantage for Woods Hole residents. However, the availability of specialists may require travel to other hospitals on Cape Cod or even to Boston. The distance to specialized care can impact healthcare access and outcomes.

**Mental Health Services:**

Access to mental health services is a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health providers in the Woods Hole area is limited. Residents often need to travel to Falmouth or other towns for mental health appointments. The limited availability of mental health services is a concern, given the potential for isolation and stress in a geographically isolated community.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors mentioned above, the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 02543 is moderately positive. The proximity of Falmouth Hospital is a significant advantage, providing access to emergency and primary care services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic congestion during peak seasons present challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative options for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. The limited availability of mental health services and the need to travel for specialized care are significant concerns.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score for Woods Hole residents, several recommendations are crucial. Enhancing public transportation options, including increased frequency and extended service hours, would improve healthcare access for those who cannot drive. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide discounted fares for healthcare-related trips could also be beneficial.

Investing in telehealth services and expanding the availability of mental health providers in the area are critical. Promoting community health initiatives, such as health education programs and wellness events, could improve overall health outcomes. Addressing traffic congestion during peak seasons is also essential to reduce drive times to healthcare facilities.

**Moving to Woods Hole:**

Individuals considering **moving to Woods Hole** should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the available transportation options. While the village offers a beautiful and tranquil environment, potential residents must understand the challenges associated with healthcare access. Planning for transportation, considering the availability of healthcare services, and exploring available resources are essential for ensuring a positive health outcome. The health score for Woods Hole is a dynamic measure, and its improvement depends on community efforts to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities.