02721, Fall River, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02721, Fall River, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.85 percent of residents in 02721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Anne's Hospital with a distance of 0.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02721

The city of Fall River, Massachusetts, nestled in ZIP Code 02721, presents a unique landscape for assessing its residents' overall health score, particularly concerning their access to healthcare. This score is heavily influenced by the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities, a critical factor in preventative care, timely treatment, and overall well-being. Analyzing the transportation infrastructure and available options is paramount to understanding the challenges and opportunities within this context.

The foundation of Fall River's transportation network rests on the interwoven tapestry of its roadways. The primary artery for moving around is Interstate 195, a crucial east-west corridor connecting Fall River to Providence, Rhode Island, and other key destinations. This highway is essential for reaching larger medical centers located outside the immediate vicinity. Route 24, running north-south, provides another vital link, facilitating access to Boston and the surrounding areas, where specialized healthcare facilities may be found. These highways are the lifeblood of transportation; they define the contours of healthcare access.

Beyond the major highways, a network of secondary roads, including Pleasant Street, South Main Street, and North Main Street, contributes to the local transportation grid. These streets serve as vital connectors to neighborhood clinics, pharmacies, and other essential services. The condition of these roads, traffic congestion, and the availability of parking all impact the ease with which residents can reach their healthcare providers. The more difficult the commute, the more the health score can suffer.

Public transportation plays a significant role in Fall River, particularly for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service throughout the city and surrounding areas. Several bus routes, including the 1, 2, 3, and 4, traverse key areas, connecting residential neighborhoods to healthcare facilities. The accessibility of these routes is a crucial consideration.

The SRTA strives to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. Furthermore, the SRTA offers paratransit services, such as the "Dart" program, for those unable to use regular bus services due to a disability. The availability and reliability of these ADA-compliant options significantly impact the health score of vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in Fall River, offering another transportation alternative. These services provide on-demand transportation, which can be particularly useful for individuals who need to reach medical appointments at specific times or who have limited mobility. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services, especially during peak hours, can impact their practicality for regular healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent a specialized segment of the transportation landscape. Companies like Medstar and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vans. These services are often utilized by individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey. The efficiency and reliability of these services are critical for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

The drive times to healthcare facilities within and surrounding ZIP Code 02721 vary depending on the destination and the mode of transportation. Reaching Saint Anne's Hospital, located within Fall River, typically involves a short drive, often less than 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Reaching Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River also requires a similar commute. However, accessing specialized facilities in Providence, Rhode Island, or Boston, Massachusetts, can involve longer travel times, often exceeding 30 minutes to an hour or more, particularly during rush hour.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities in Fall River is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers. The city has a number of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers. However, the density of healthcare providers may vary across different neighborhoods, potentially impacting the ease with which residents can access care. The availability of specialists, in particular, may require travel to facilities outside the immediate area.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 02721 is a complex metric, influenced by a multitude of factors. The transportation infrastructure, including highways, roads, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, plays a crucial role in determining the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach healthcare facilities. The accessibility of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and the overall cost of transportation all contribute to the overall health score.

For individuals considering moving to Fall River, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. The ability to navigate the city's transportation network and access healthcare services efficiently is a key determinant of overall well-being. Prospective residents should consider their transportation needs, the location of healthcare providers, and the availability of alternative transportation options when making their decision.

The SRTA offers a crucial service, but its effectiveness is tied to the frequency of routes, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends. The more frequently buses run, the greater the chance of healthcare access.

The cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can be a significant barrier for some residents. Subsidized programs or financial assistance may be needed to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all.

The health score is not static. It is a dynamic measure, influenced by changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare availability, and the evolving needs of the community. Continuous efforts to improve transportation options, enhance healthcare access, and address socioeconomic disparities are essential for improving the overall health score of Fall River residents.