02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.31 percent of residents in 02576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 12.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02576

The overall health score for residents of West Wareham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02576), hinges significantly on the ease with which they can access healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those considering moving to this charming coastal community.

West Wareham's location, nestled within the heart of Plymouth County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. While the area boasts a certain rural charm, the availability of efficient transportation is paramount for maintaining good health. The health score will be affected by the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering the diverse needs of the population, including those with mobility limitations.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many residents. The primary arteries for healthcare access are Route 28, a major north-south thoroughfare, and Route 495, a limited-access highway that provides regional connectivity. From West Wareham, reaching the nearest hospitals and clinics requires careful consideration of traffic patterns and distances.

For example, Tobey Hospital in Wareham, a vital healthcare provider, is typically a short drive, accessible via Route 28. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion can significantly extend the commute. Similarly, reaching larger hospitals like Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital – Plymouth, involves navigating Route 28 and potentially Route 3, increasing travel time.

Further afield, specialized care might necessitate journeys to hospitals in Boston, a trip requiring the use of Route 495, and the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90). These longer commutes demand careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The health score is directly impacted by the time commitment required for essential medical appointments and the potential stress associated with longer drives.

Public transportation options in West Wareham are limited but present a valuable alternative, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus services within the region, including routes that connect West Wareham to neighboring towns and medical facilities.

The specifics of SRTA routes servicing the area must be researched. Information on the number of the routes, and their schedules is essential. The frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, will be crucial in determining the usability of public transit. Moreover, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is paramount, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare without undue difficulty.

The integration of public transit into the healthcare access equation is a crucial element of the overall health score. Convenient and reliable bus services can significantly improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations, reducing reliance on private vehicles and potentially alleviating the financial burden of transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as another viable transportation option. The availability and cost-effectiveness of these services in West Wareham directly influence the health score. While ride-sharing can provide on-demand transportation, particularly for urgent medical needs, the cost can be a barrier for some residents.

The reliability of ride-sharing services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is also a factor. Residents must be able to depend on these services to reach medical appointments promptly and safely. The presence of medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, further expands the transportation options for those with specific medical needs.

Medical transport services, often equipped with specialized vehicles and trained personnel, cater to individuals requiring assistance with mobility or medical care during transit. The availability of these services, and the ease with which they can be accessed, significantly enhances the overall health score, particularly for elderly residents or those with chronic illnesses.

The overall health score for West Wareham, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of transportation factors. While the area offers a relatively accessible location, the reliance on private vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public transit, can pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost and reliability of these services remain important considerations.

When considering moving to West Wareham, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the potential impact on their healthcare access. The health score is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it also encompasses the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach those facilities.

The health score will be improved by the community's efforts to enhance public transportation, encourage ride-sharing, and ensure the availability of medical transport services. These initiatives would contribute to a more equitable and accessible healthcare system, ultimately improving the overall well-being of West Wareham residents.

The health score is also impacted by the infrastructure of the roads. Road conditions, traffic flow, and the presence of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks all play a role in shaping the overall health of the community. The health score is a dynamic metric, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and healthcare access in West Wareham.

In conclusion, the overall health score for West Wareham (ZIP Code 02576) is moderately positive. While the area benefits from proximity to medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose some challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides valuable alternatives, but the cost and reliability of these services must be considered. Ultimately, the health score can be improved by continued investment in transportation infrastructure and services, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare.