02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.55 percent of residents in 02717 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 9.12 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02717 (East Freetown, MA)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services significantly impacts health outcomes. This assessment provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare accessibility for residents of ZIP Code 02717, focusing on transportation options and their associated challenges and opportunities. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to East Freetown, as it helps paint a clear picture of what to expect.

East Freetown, Massachusetts, offers a tranquil, rural environment, but its location presents unique considerations regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation necessitates a careful examination of transportation options to ensure residents can reach necessary medical appointments and services. The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical grade but a qualitative assessment, weighing the various factors influencing healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation for healthcare access in East Freetown. The primary roadways serving the area are crucial for understanding commute times. Route 140, a major north-south artery, provides direct access to Fall River and Taunton, where significant healthcare facilities are located. Expect a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes to reach these cities, depending on traffic conditions. Route 105 offers another route, albeit a slower one, leading towards Lakeville and Middleborough, which also offer some healthcare options.

The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and Interstate 195 are accessible via connecting roads, providing access to Boston and Providence, respectively. However, these routes are longer and can involve considerable travel time, potentially exceeding an hour depending on the destination and traffic. The efficiency of these routes is highly dependent on the time of day, with rush hour significantly increasing travel times.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in East Freetown are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the region, but its routes and frequency are not optimized for healthcare access from East Freetown. The closest SRTA routes may require a drive to a designated stop in Fall River or Taunton, adding to the overall commute time. Information on specific routes, such as Route 1 (Fall River) or Route 10 (Taunton), should be consulted to determine their suitability for healthcare access.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for those with disabilities. SRTA buses are equipped with accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited service frequency and the need to transfer can pose challenges. Potential residents should contact SRTA directly to confirm the accessibility of specific routes and stops relevant to their healthcare needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the East Freetown area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Surge pricing can also increase the cost of transportation, making it a less affordable option for some residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are another consideration. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Researching local NEMT providers, such as First Transit or Medical Transportation Management (MTM), is essential. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria.

**Healthcare Access: Facility Proximity and Options:**

The location of healthcare facilities significantly impacts transportation needs. Residents of East Freetown have access to several hospitals and clinics within a reasonable driving distance. Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River and Morton Hospital in Taunton are major healthcare providers offering a range of services. Several urgent care centers and primary care physician offices are also available in these cities.

Specialized healthcare services, such as oncology, cardiology, and specialized surgery, may require travel to larger medical centers, such as those in Boston or Providence. This underscores the importance of considering commute times and transportation options when evaluating healthcare access.

**Challenges and Considerations:**

Several factors pose challenges to healthcare access in East Freetown. The rural nature of the area results in longer commute times, particularly for those relying on public transportation or ride-sharing services. The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to accessing timely medical care.

The cost of transportation is another important consideration. The expense of driving, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, can be significant. Ride-sharing services can also be expensive, especially during peak hours. For individuals with limited financial resources, these costs can create a barrier to healthcare access.

**Opportunities and Recommendations:**

Despite the challenges, there are opportunities to improve healthcare access in East Freetown. Encouraging the expansion of public transportation routes and increasing service frequency would benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve accessibility.

Telehealth services offer another avenue for improving healthcare access. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. Promoting the adoption of telehealth services by local healthcare providers can be beneficial.

**Conclusion:**

Healthcare access in East Freetown presents a mixed picture. While residents have access to a range of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The "Overall Health Score" suggests that residents must carefully consider transportation options and potential costs when planning for healthcare needs. For those moving to East Freetown, understanding these factors is essential for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. Investing in improved transportation infrastructure, promoting telehealth services, and exploring innovative solutions like subsidized ride-sharing programs can significantly enhance healthcare accessibility and improve the overall health and well-being of the community.