02660, South Dennis, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02660, South Dennis, Massachusetts is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.29 percent of residents in 02660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 6.89 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02660 (South Dennis, MA)**

This report analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 02660, South Dennis, Massachusetts, focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health. Understanding the ease of reaching medical facilities is crucial for residents, especially considering the potential health implications of delayed or missed appointments. This assessment provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on various transportation factors.

The 'Overall Health Score' is calculated by evaluating the efficiency and availability of transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. Each category is assessed based on drive times, route frequency, accessibility features, and cost-effectiveness. The ultimate score reflects the ease with which residents can access necessary healthcare, influencing their well-being and overall health outcomes.

**Private Vehicle Transportation**

For residents of South Dennis, the primary mode of transportation remains the private vehicle. The convenience of personal vehicles is undeniable, offering door-to-door service and flexibility in scheduling. However, drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor.

Traveling to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, the largest regional hospital, requires navigating Route 134 and Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway. During peak hours, traffic congestion on Route 6 can significantly extend travel times. The drive can take approximately 20-30 minutes under normal conditions, but this can easily increase to 45 minutes or more during rush hour or summer weekends.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices are scattered throughout the region. Reaching the Dennis Medical Center, located in Dennis, involves a shorter drive, typically around 10-15 minutes via Route 134. However, the availability of specific services at these smaller facilities may be limited, necessitating longer trips to larger hospitals or specialized clinics.

For residents considering moving to South Dennis, the reliance on personal vehicles should be a significant consideration. While offering independence, the potential for increased travel times, especially during peak seasons, can affect healthcare access.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in the area are limited but exist. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus services throughout Cape Cod, including routes that serve South Dennis. The CCRTA's Route 6 (the "Sealine") travels along Route 6, offering a connection to Hyannis and other towns with healthcare facilities.

Unfortunately, the frequency of these routes is limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. Waiting times can be considerable, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare locations. The CCRTA operates with ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall utility of public transit for healthcare access is constrained by its limited coverage and schedule.

The CCRTA offers a "Dial-A-Ride" service for individuals with disabilities or those residing outside the regular route service areas. This service requires advance booking and may have limited availability, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the South Dennis area, offering an alternative to private vehicles and public transit. Their availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Surge pricing during peak times or special events can also make ride-sharing an expensive option.

The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, providing door-to-door service and eliminating the need for parking. However, the cost and reliability of these services should be factored into any assessment of healthcare access.

**Medical Transport Services**

Specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. These services are typically booked in advance and are designed to provide safe and reliable transportation to medical appointments.

Local companies, such as Cape Cod Medical Transport, offer these services. While providing a valuable service for those with mobility limitations, these options can be expensive and may require advance planning.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in ZIP Code 02660 is moderate. While residents have access to a range of transportation options, each has limitations. Private vehicles offer the most convenience but are subject to traffic delays. Public transit is available but limited in frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing services provide flexibility but can be costly and unreliable. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but are also expensive.

To improve healthcare access, several recommendations are proposed. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of CCRTA bus routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities, is crucial. Promoting ride-sharing programs and subsidizing transportation costs for low-income residents can also help.

Furthermore, expanding the availability of medical transport services and educating residents about their options is essential. Exploring partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services to offer coordinated transportation solutions would also be beneficial.

For those considering moving to South Dennis, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation options significantly impacts healthcare access and overall health.

**Conclusion**

The 'Overall Health Score' reflects the complex interplay of transportation factors affecting healthcare access in South Dennis. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation option, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Addressing the identified challenges through targeted improvements in public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport will enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health outcomes for the community. The ability to efficiently and affordably reach healthcare facilities is a critical component of a healthy and thriving community.