02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 02553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 10.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Monument Beach (ZIP Code 02553)

Monument Beach, a charming coastal community in Massachusetts, offers a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, assessing its "Overall Health Score" requires a deeper look, specifically at the critical element of healthcare access. This analysis delves into the practicalities of commuting to medical facilities, considering the available *transportation* options and their impact on residents' well-being. Evaluating this is crucial for anyone *moving to Monument Beach*, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical services.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access is the time it takes to reach medical facilities. In 02553, the nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in surrounding towns, demanding reliance on personal vehicles. Driving times vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The main arteries for *transportation* are Route 28, Route 6, and local roads.

For general medical needs, the drive to Falmouth Hospital, a common choice, averages around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves navigating Route 28, a busy thoroughfare particularly during peak hours and the summer season. Specialty care, such as cardiology or oncology, might necessitate travel to larger hospitals in Plymouth or even Boston. This extends drive times significantly, potentially exceeding an hour, especially when battling traffic on Route 6.

Public *transportation* options are limited in Monument Beach. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus services, but their routes and frequency are not ideally suited for quick access to healthcare. The primary route serving the area is the "B" route, which connects Bourne to Hyannis. This route has limited stops in Monument Beach and is not designed for quick commutes to medical facilities. While CCRTA buses are ADA-accessible, the infrequent schedules and indirect routes make them a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs.

The availability of ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offers another *transportation* alternative. However, their reliability and cost can fluctuate, especially during peak demand or in inclement weather. While ride-sharing provides a more flexible option than public *transportation*, it is not a guaranteed solution for urgent medical appointments. The cost can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent visits or those with limited financial resources.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients, are another element. Companies such as MedStar and American Medical Response offer non-emergency medical *transportation*. These services are typically booked in advance and can provide door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While they offer a reliable option, they come with associated costs and may require advance scheduling, making them less suitable for immediate needs.

The physical accessibility of medical facilities is another critical aspect. While most modern healthcare facilities are ADA-compliant, ensuring ease of access for individuals with disabilities, the *transportation* challenges can still create barriers. The distance to medical facilities, coupled with limited public *transportation* options, can be particularly challenging for those with mobility issues.

The overall health score for Monument Beach, concerning healthcare access, is moderate. While the community offers a desirable quality of life, the reliance on personal vehicles for medical appointments presents a significant challenge. The drive times to medical facilities, coupled with limited public *transportation* and the variability of ride-sharing services, contribute to potential delays in accessing healthcare.

For those *moving to Monument Beach*, understanding these realities is crucial. Prospective residents should consider their individual healthcare needs and the potential impact of *transportation* limitations. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention may find the commute times and limited options a significant factor.

The score is further influenced by the socio-economic factors of the community. Residents with limited financial resources may find the costs associated with ride-sharing or medical *transportation* a burden, potentially impacting their ability to seek timely medical care. The availability of insurance coverage also plays a crucial role.

The *transportation* infrastructure is a key component of the overall health score. Improvements in public *transportation*, such as increased frequency of bus routes or the addition of dedicated medical *transportation* services, could significantly enhance healthcare access for residents. Increased awareness of existing resources, like medical *transportation* options, can also improve the health score.

The seasonal influx of tourists during the summer months further complicates the healthcare access picture. Traffic congestion on Route 28 and Route 6 increases drive times, potentially delaying access to medical care. This seasonal factor should be considered when assessing the overall health score.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can mitigate some *transportation* challenges. Telemedicine appointments can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up consultations or routine check-ups. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology.

The overall health score for Monument Beach, therefore, is not a simple calculation. It's a complex evaluation that considers drive times, public *transportation* limitations, ride-sharing reliability, medical *transportation* availability, and the community's socio-economic factors. The score is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access in the area.

In conclusion, while Monument Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access, primarily due to *transportation* challenges, warrant careful consideration. For those *moving to Monument Beach*, understanding the commute times, exploring alternative *transportation* options, and assessing their individual healthcare needs are crucial steps in ensuring their well-being. The overall health score is moderate, with room for improvement through infrastructure enhancements, increased awareness of existing resources, and the continued development of telehealth services.