02561, Sagamore, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02561, Sagamore, Massachusetts is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 02561 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 13.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02561 (Sagamore, MA)

The picturesque coastal community of Sagamore, Massachusetts, nestled within the 02561 ZIP code, boasts a certain charm, a sense of tranquility that draws many seeking respite from the frenetic pace of city life. However, this idyllic setting presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the crucial element of **transportation** and its impact on accessing medical services. For those **moving to Sagamore**, understanding these nuances is paramount for ensuring their well-being.

The primary concern revolves around the availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities. While Sagamore itself may offer some basic medical services, specialized care often necessitates travel outside the immediate area. This dependence on **transportation** significantly influences the overall health score, impacting factors such as timely access to appointments, the ability to manage chronic conditions, and the overall quality of life.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries connecting Sagamore to healthcare facilities are the major roadways. Route 6, also known as the Mid-Cape Highway, serves as the primary east-west thoroughfare. Heading west on Route 6, one can access facilities in the Bourne area, including the convenient but smaller Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth Urgent Care, typically reachable within a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. Further afield, but still accessible, is Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, a more comprehensive facility, which requires a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes.

Traveling east on Route 6, one encounters fewer immediate options. The drive to Falmouth Hospital, a facility with a wide range of services, takes around 30-45 minutes. The notorious summer traffic, however, can significantly extend these travel times, potentially jeopardizing timely access to care, particularly during peak season.

Local roads, such as Sandwich Road and Old County Road, provide alternative routes, but they are often slower and less direct. These roads are frequently utilized to bypass traffic on Route 6, offering a degree of flexibility, but they may not be ideal for emergency situations.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Sagamore and the surrounding areas are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates a bus service, but its routes and schedules may not be conducive to regular healthcare appointments. The CCRTA's fixed-route buses, while offering some degree of **transportation** accessibility, are often infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities.

The CCRTA does offer a "Dial-A-Ride" service, providing door-to-door **transportation** for individuals with disabilities or those unable to utilize the fixed-route buses. This service, however, requires advance booking and may have limited availability, making it less reliable for urgent or unscheduled medical needs. The ADA accessibility of the CCRTA buses varies, with some buses equipped with ramps and lifts, while others may not.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Sagamore area, offering a degree of flexibility for healthcare **transportation**. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or long-distance travel.

Medical **transportation** services, such as medical car services and ambulance services, are also available. These services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs or those requiring assistance with mobility. The cost of these services can be substantial, and they may not be covered by all insurance plans. Companies like MedStar and First Care Medical **Transportation** offer services in the area.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in 02561 is moderately impacted by **transportation** challenges. While the area offers a degree of access to medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** present significant obstacles. The extended drive times, particularly during peak season, can delay access to care, potentially impacting health outcomes.

The lack of readily available public **transportation** options disproportionately affects individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle, including seniors, low-income residents, and those with disabilities. This lack of access can lead to delayed or missed appointments, exacerbating existing health conditions and hindering preventative care.

The cost of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** can also pose a financial burden, further limiting access to healthcare for some residents. The overall health score is further impacted by the need for specialized medical care, which often necessitates travel to facilities outside the immediate area.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

To improve the overall health score for accessing healthcare in 02561, several measures could be implemented. Enhancing the CCRTA bus service, including more frequent routes and direct connections to medical facilities, would significantly improve accessibility. Expanding the Dial-A-Ride service and ensuring the ADA compliance of all public **transportation** options would also be beneficial.

Promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing options and exploring partnerships with medical **transportation** providers could further reduce barriers to healthcare access. Encouraging the development of telehealth services and expanding the availability of in-home healthcare services could also mitigate the impact of **transportation** challenges.

For those considering **moving to Sagamore**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is crucial. Understanding the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential for extended drive times, and the cost of alternative **transportation** options is essential for making informed decisions. The overall health score in 02561 is influenced by **transportation**, so planning is key.