02641, East Dennis, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02641, East Dennis, Massachusetts is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 02641 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 7.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02641 (East Dennis, MA)

The overall health score for residents of East Dennis, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02641) hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to East Dennis, and highlighting the existing challenges and opportunities.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 02641 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's relative isolation, coupled with the limited public transit infrastructure, makes driving the most common mode of transportation. The major arteries serving the area are Route 6A, a scenic but often congested coastal road, and Route 134, which provides a more direct north-south connection. Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway, offers the fastest route to larger medical centers, but traffic can be heavy, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. The closest urgent care facility, located in Dennis, is typically a 10-15 minute drive via Route 134 or Route 6A. For primary care physicians within Dennis, drive times are similar. However, accessing specialized care or hospitals in Hyannis or Barnstable requires a longer commute. Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, the region's largest hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 6, depending on traffic. Falmouth Hospital is a 45-60 minute drive.

Public transportation options are limited in East Dennis. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus service, primarily the #6 route, which runs along Route 6A. However, the frequency of the #6 is limited, and the route primarily serves the towns along the north shore. The CCRTA also offers the Flex Route service, which is a demand-response service requiring advance booking, but availability is limited. ADA accessibility is available, but the system is not designed for high-volume usage. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles, especially seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-season or inclement weather. Surge pricing, common during peak tourist seasons or periods of high demand, can significantly increase the cost of transportation. The limited availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring assistance getting to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the area, including Cape Cod Medical Transport and AMR (American Medical Response). These services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who need assistance but do not require an ambulance. However, these services often require advance booking, and availability can be limited, particularly during peak times.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 02641 is moderate. While residents with personal vehicles have relatively easy access to local healthcare providers and urgent care facilities, those relying on public transportation, ride-sharing, or medical transport face significant challenges. The limited public transit infrastructure, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for traffic congestion during peak seasons all contribute to these difficulties. This impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

For individuals considering moving to East Dennis, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of maintaining a reliable car and being prepared for potential traffic delays.

The CCRTA's efforts to expand its services, including exploring the possibility of extending routes or increasing frequency, could significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Investment in infrastructure to support ride-sharing services, such as designated pick-up and drop-off zones at medical facilities, could also enhance accessibility. Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transportation services and ensuring their availability could provide a vital lifeline for those in need.

The healthcare access landscape in 02641 is not static. The growing population, the aging demographic, and the increasing demand for healthcare services necessitate ongoing efforts to improve transportation options. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including investments in public transit, support for ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation.

The future of healthcare access in East Dennis depends on the community's commitment to addressing these challenges. By proactively seeking solutions and embracing innovation, the town can improve the overall health score for its residents and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they need. The ability to navigate the transportation system to healthcare is a crucial component of a healthy community, and East Dennis must continue to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of its residents.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is undeniable. The ease with which residents can reach medical facilities directly affects their health outcomes. The current transportation infrastructure in 02641 presents both challenges and opportunities. For those considering moving to East Dennis, understanding these factors is paramount.

The availability and reliability of transportation are intertwined with the overall well-being of the community. Addressing the limitations of the current system and implementing innovative solutions will be crucial in ensuring that all residents of 02641 can access the healthcare they need. The health score is directly related to the transportation options.