02666, Truro, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02666, Truro, Massachusetts is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.91 percent of residents in 02666 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 33.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 26.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Truro, MA (ZIP Code 02666)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Truro, Massachusetts, hinges significantly on the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 02666, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty individuals face when seeking medical attention. The following details drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing/medical transport availability, all crucial components in determining the overall health score for this unique coastal community. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Truro, as it directly impacts their healthcare access.

The primary artery serving Truro is Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway. This road provides a direct route eastward towards Provincetown and westward towards Orleans and beyond. Drive times to essential healthcare facilities vary depending on the location within Truro and the specific medical need. For instance, a routine appointment at a primary care physician’s office in Wellfleet, approximately 10 miles west, might take 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during the peak summer season, with increased traffic congestion, this commute could easily double.

Emergency situations present a different scenario. The nearest hospital, Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, is approximately 40 miles away. A non-emergency drive on Route 6 could take around an hour, while an emergency response, facilitated by ambulance, would depend on traffic conditions and the urgency of the situation. The drive involves navigating Route 6, which can become heavily congested during the summer months, adding to the stress of an emergency.

Public transportation options in Truro are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates the Flex Route, a demand-response service that requires advance booking. This service, while offering some degree of mobility, is not designed for immediate healthcare needs. The Flex Route is not a readily available option for urgent medical situations.

The CCRTA also operates the Route 11 shuttle, which runs between Provincetown and Orleans, with stops in Truro. This route, while offering a scheduled service, is not specifically tailored to healthcare access. The schedule may not align with medical appointment times, and the limited frequency might necessitate long wait times. The Route 11 shuttle does not have specific ADA features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Truro, though their presence is less consistent compared to more urban areas. Availability fluctuates depending on the time of day, season, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be precarious, especially for those requiring regular visits or facing unpredictable medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare trips.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily for acute needs and are not designed for routine appointments or preventative care. The cost of ambulance services can be substantial, and the reliance on such services for non-emergency situations is not ideal for overall health and well-being.

The availability of medical transportation services is a crucial element in assessing the health score. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without personal transportation face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting their health outcomes.

The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited transportation options, presents a challenge for residents of Truro. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services all contribute to a reduced overall health score.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Truro itself is limited. The town relies on facilities in neighboring communities for specialized care and hospital services. This necessitates travel, adding to the transportation burden. The absence of a local hospital or a comprehensive medical center significantly impacts the overall health score.

The demographics of Truro also play a role in the overall health score. The town has a significant senior population, who may have limited mobility and rely more on transportation services. The ability of these residents to access healthcare is a critical factor in assessing the community's overall health.

The seasonal nature of Truro's population also impacts healthcare access. During the summer months, the population swells, increasing the demand for healthcare services and potentially straining the available resources. This influx of visitors can also exacerbate traffic congestion, further complicating transportation to medical appointments.

For those considering moving to Truro, understanding the transportation challenges is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services all necessitate careful planning. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those requiring frequent healthcare visits should carefully consider the transportation logistics before making a move.

The overall health score for Truro, Massachusetts, is directly impacted by the accessibility of healthcare services. While the community offers a beautiful and desirable living environment, the transportation challenges present a significant hurdle. Addressing these challenges, through improved public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, or the provision of medical transportation services, would significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for all residents. The provision of more accessible healthcare is a key consideration for anyone moving to Truro.