02571, Wareham, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02571, Wareham, Massachusetts is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.03 percent of residents in 02571 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 13.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wareham, MA (ZIP Code 02571)

Wareham, Massachusetts, a coastal town nestled on the western edge of Buzzards Bay, offers a unique blend of maritime charm and suburban living. But when considering a move, particularly for those prioritizing health and well-being, a critical factor emerges: access to healthcare. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the realities of commuting to medical services within and around ZIP code 02571, offering a comprehensive view of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. This is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Wareham.

The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach various healthcare providers, encompassing drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation methods. It aims to provide a realistic picture, acknowledging both the strengths and weaknesses of the local transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

For many Wareham residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The convenience of personal vehicles is undeniable, but drive times to healthcare facilities can vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. Major roads like US Route 6, the primary east-west artery, and MA Route 28, which runs north-south, are critical for accessing healthcare.

Wareham is fortunate to have Tobey Hospital, a community hospital, located within its borders. This significantly reduces travel time for many essential medical needs. Routine appointments and emergency services are generally accessible within a reasonable timeframe, especially for those residing closer to the hospital. However, specialized care often necessitates travel outside of Wareham.

Traveling east on Route 6 towards Plymouth or west towards New Bedford opens up a wider array of medical specialists and facilities. However, these journeys can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. A trip to Plymouth may take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, a journey to New Bedford could take a similar amount of time.

Further afield, Boston, with its renowned medical centers, presents a more substantial commute. Reaching Boston via I-495 and other major highways can easily consume 1.5 to 2 hours, making it less practical for routine appointments but a necessity for specialized treatments. The time commitment is a critical factor for those considering moving to Wareham.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Developing Option**

Public transportation in Wareham, while present, is not as robust as in larger metropolitan areas. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are limited. For those without personal vehicles, relying on public transit to access healthcare can be challenging.

SRTA Route 11 serves Wareham, connecting it to neighboring towns like New Bedford. While this route offers a connection to healthcare facilities in New Bedford, the travel time is considerably longer than driving, often taking an hour or more. Furthermore, the frequency of buses is limited, making it difficult to schedule appointments and return home efficiently.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SRTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall convenience of public transit for those with mobility limitations remain a concern.

The feasibility of using public transit for healthcare access depends heavily on individual circumstances, appointment schedules, and the distance to the desired medical facility. For those considering moving to Wareham, the limitations of public transit must be carefully weighed.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. The availability of these services in Wareham is generally good, but the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, their availability and cost vary depending on the specific provider and the nature of the service.

Medical transportation services are a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or use public transportation. These services can provide a crucial link to healthcare, especially for individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Wareham, MA (ZIP code 02571) reflects a mixed bag. The presence of Tobey Hospital within the town provides a significant advantage, offering convenient access to essential medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents.

Drive times to specialized medical facilities in neighboring towns and cities can be considerable, particularly during peak traffic hours. While ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternatives, their cost and availability may be a barrier for some. Public transit, while present, is limited in its reach and frequency.

For those considering moving to Wareham, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences is crucial. Those who can drive and have access to a personal vehicle will likely find healthcare access relatively convenient. However, individuals who rely on public transit or face mobility limitations may encounter significant challenges.

The overall health score, therefore, is moderate. Wareham offers a good base of healthcare services, but access to specialized care and the reliance on personal vehicles create potential limitations. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability must be considered. The future of healthcare access in Wareham will likely be shaped by developments in public transit, ride-sharing, and the expansion of local healthcare services.