02646, Harwich Port, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02646, Harwich Port, Massachusetts is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.30 percent of residents in 02646 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 10.31 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Harwich Port (ZIP Code 02646)

This report evaluates the ease of accessing healthcare services within and surrounding Harwich Port, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02646). The "Overall Health Score" considers the multifaceted nature of transportation options, encompassing drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all crucial elements for residents seeking timely and efficient healthcare. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Harwich Port, offering a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility in this charming coastal community.

The foundation of healthcare access in Harwich Port relies heavily on personal vehicle transportation. The town's layout and the location of major healthcare facilities necessitate driving for most residents. Assessing drive times to various medical providers is paramount.

For routine appointments and general healthcare needs, the closest facilities are typically located within Harwich and neighboring towns. Driving to the **Harwich Port Health Center**, a common point of entry for primary care, usually takes less than ten minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. The primary thoroughfare, **Route 28**, provides direct access. The ease of this commute contributes positively to the overall health score.

Specialized care often requires travel further afield. **Cape Cod Hospital** in Hyannis, a major regional medical center, is a significant destination. The drive to Cape Cod Hospital via **Route 28** and **Route 6** (the Mid-Cape Highway) can range from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak tourist season, particularly summer weekends, traffic congestion on Route 28 and Route 6 can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Other specialized care options, such as those available at the **Falmouth Hospital**, require a longer drive, typically around an hour, depending on traffic. The route involves navigating Route 28 and then transitioning to other roads to reach the hospital. This longer travel time, while manageable, adds a layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Public transportation options within Harwich Port are limited, presenting a challenge for those who do not drive or prefer not to. The **Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA)** provides bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align perfectly with healthcare appointment times.

The CCRTA's **Route 7** serves Harwich Port, connecting it to other towns on the Cape. While Route 7 offers a viable option for some, its frequency and coverage are limited, and direct routes to healthcare facilities are not always available. Passengers may need to transfer buses, potentially increasing travel time and complexity.

Furthermore, the CCRTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, even with ADA accommodations, the reliance on public transit for healthcare access can be a barrier for some, especially those with mobility limitations or those needing urgent care. This limitation slightly diminishes the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Harwich Port, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate. During peak hours or periods of high demand, ride-sharing fares may be elevated, potentially impacting the affordability of healthcare access.

The reliability of ride-sharing, especially in areas with limited cellular coverage, can also be a concern. While ride-sharing provides a valuable option, it is not always a guaranteed solution for healthcare transportation, particularly for urgent or time-sensitive medical needs.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several options are available. **MedStar Ambulance** and other private ambulance services operate in the area, providing emergency and non-emergency transportation. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or require medical assistance during transit.

However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, potentially posing a financial burden for some residents. The availability of these services is generally good, but the financial implications must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

In evaluating the overall health score for healthcare access in Harwich Port, several factors must be weighed. The convenience of driving to local healthcare providers, particularly the Harwich Port Health Center, is a significant positive. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services also enhances accessibility.

However, the limitations of public transit, the longer travel times to specialized care facilities, and the potential for traffic congestion during peak seasons present challenges. The cost of medical transport and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services add further considerations.

Overall, the health score for healthcare access in Harwich Port is moderately positive. While residents have access to a range of healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning, especially for those without their own transportation. For individuals considering moving to Harwich Port, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential to ensure they can access the care they need in a timely and efficient manner.