02715, Dighton, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02715, Dighton, Massachusetts is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.64 percent of residents in 02715 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 8.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02715 (Dighton, MA)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when considering a move to a new community. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 02715 (Dighton, Massachusetts), focusing on the ease of **transportation** to various medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of **healthcare access** in this area. This information is particularly crucial for individuals and families **moving to Dighton**, ensuring they can readily obtain necessary medical care.

Dighton, nestled in Bristol County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the town itself is relatively small, its proximity to larger urban centers like Taunton and Fall River significantly impacts the available medical options. The Overall Health Score will reflect this interplay of local resources and regional connectivity.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary method of **transportation** for most Dighton residents to access healthcare is by car. Several major roadways facilitate this, but traffic patterns and distances need careful consideration.

To access Morton Hospital in Taunton, a primary healthcare provider, residents typically utilize Route 138, a major north-south artery through Dighton. During off-peak hours, the drive is usually a swift 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, congestion can increase the commute time to 20-30 minutes, impacting the Overall Health Score.

Another critical healthcare destination is Saint Anne's Hospital in Fall River. Accessing this facility involves navigating Route 138 south to Route 24, a major highway connecting the South Coast to Boston. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes approximately 20-25 minutes. However, Route 24 is notorious for traffic bottlenecks, especially near the intersections with Route 140 and I-195, potentially extending the commute to 30-45 minutes or even longer during peak periods. This extended travel time can significantly impact the ability to seek timely medical attention, particularly in emergencies.

For specialized care or access to larger hospitals, residents might need to travel further. Boston, approximately 45 miles away, is home to world-renowned medical institutions. However, the journey to Boston, primarily via Route 24 and I-93, can take over an hour, even without significant traffic delays. This long commute underscores the importance of local healthcare options and the need for reliable **transportation** alternatives.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** in Dighton is limited, which negatively impacts the Overall Health Score. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the region, but service within Dighton itself is infrequent. Route 19, a SRTA bus route, offers limited service, primarily connecting Dighton to Taunton and Fall River. This route operates on a schedule that may not be convenient for all medical appointments, and service frequency can be an issue.

Furthermore, it's crucial to assess the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the SRTA buses. All SRTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the routes can still present challenges. The limited public transit options highlight the need for alternative **transportation** solutions for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Dighton, providing another option for accessing healthcare. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, potentially making it less accessible for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Ambulance and other private ambulance companies, are available for those requiring specialized **transportation** due to medical conditions. These services offer door-to-door transport, often with trained medical personnel. However, these services are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs and can be costly.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis, the Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 02715 is moderate. While the town benefits from its proximity to Taunton and Fall River, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The potential for extended commute times during peak hours, particularly to hospitals in Fall River and Boston, is a significant concern.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides a valuable alternative, but their reliability and cost must be considered. Medical transport services offer a crucial safety net for those with specific needs, but they are not a readily available solution for all.

The Overall Health Score is further impacted by the availability of healthcare providers within Dighton itself. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities in the immediate area can significantly improve **healthcare access**. While Dighton has some local medical resources, residents often need to travel to nearby towns for more specialized care.

For individuals and families **moving to Dighton**, it is essential to carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. Those without reliable personal **transportation** should thoroughly investigate the availability and convenience of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care, ultimately contributing to a higher quality of life in this community.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several initiatives could be beneficial. Expanding SRTA bus service within Dighton and increasing the frequency of existing routes would enhance **healthcare access** for those reliant on public transit. Promoting partnerships between ride-sharing services and healthcare providers, such as offering discounted rides for medical appointments, could also improve accessibility. Furthermore, encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within Dighton, including specialists and urgent care centers, would reduce the need for lengthy commutes. Finally, providing residents with information about available **transportation** options and financial assistance programs for medical **transportation** would empower them to navigate the healthcare system more effectively.