02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.08 percent of residents in 02673 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 1.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02673 (West Yarmouth, MA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of West Yarmouth (ZIP Code 02673) requires a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare, factoring in the various transportation options available. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities individuals face when seeking medical attention. Considering a move to West Yarmouth, understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in West Yarmouth is the ability to physically reach medical facilities. This is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The town's location on Cape Cod necessitates reliance on roadways, particularly Route 28 and Route 6 (the Mid-Cape Highway). Drive times vary considerably depending on the time of day, season, and traffic conditions.

During peak summer months, traffic congestion can be severe, especially on Route 28, the main thoroughfare. A routine trip to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, approximately 10 miles east, could easily stretch from a 15-minute drive in the off-season to a 30-45 minute ordeal during the summer. The Mid-Cape Highway (Route 6) offers a quicker, more direct route, but its accessibility is limited to certain areas of West Yarmouth.

Beyond Cape Cod Hospital, residents may need to travel to specialized clinics or hospitals located further afield. Boston, with its renowned medical institutions, is a significant draw for specialized care. A drive to Boston, a journey of roughly 75 miles, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route (typically via Route 6 and Interstate 495). This extended travel time presents a considerable barrier to healthcare access, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or facing urgent medical needs.

Public transportation options in West Yarmouth are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates the "Flex" service, a demand-response system that offers door-to-door transportation within specific zones. While this service can be a lifeline for some, its availability is constrained, and it may not always align with individual medical appointment schedules. The CCRTA also operates fixed-route buses, including the Route 13 (Hyannis to Provincetown) and Route 11 (Hyannis to Orleans), which offer limited service within West Yarmouth.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The CCRTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and lift-equipped vehicles. However, the reliance on demand-response services and the potential for longer travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. Planning ahead and coordinating transportation is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability and cost can fluctuate. While these services are generally accessible in West Yarmouth, the price of a ride to a medical appointment can be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with limited incomes or frequent medical needs. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance, provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like MedStar and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. However, they typically require advance booking and can be expensive, adding to the overall cost of healthcare access.

The overall health score for West Yarmouth, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderately favorable. While the town offers a range of healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create barriers for some residents. The long drive times to specialized medical centers in Boston and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport further complicate the situation.

For those considering moving to West Yarmouth, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle should carefully evaluate the availability and accessibility of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Proximity to healthcare facilities and the ability to navigate the local road network are also important considerations.

In conclusion, the overall health score for West Yarmouth residents, regarding healthcare access, is influenced by the transportation infrastructure, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport. While the town provides a range of healthcare options, the challenges associated with transportation, particularly during peak seasons, can impact the ease and affordability of accessing medical care. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances when considering a move to West Yarmouth. The ability to navigate the complexities of transportation is a key factor in ensuring access to the healthcare needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle.