02744, New Bedford, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02744, New Bedford, Massachusetts is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.03 percent of residents in 02744 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 13.65 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02744 (New Bedford, MA)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in New Bedford, Massachusetts, ZIP code 02744, presents a multifaceted challenge. Evaluating the ease with which residents can access medical services requires a comprehensive assessment of the transportation infrastructure, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing options, and the accessibility of medical transport services. These factors collectively influence the "Overall Health Score" for this area, directly impacting residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 02744 is the personal vehicle. The road network, while offering a degree of connectivity, can present significant challenges, particularly during peak hours. The primary arteries are Route 18, a north-south thoroughfare, and Route 140, which runs east-west. These highways, along with smaller roads like County Street and Acushnet Avenue, bear the brunt of daily traffic. Drive times to healthcare facilities within the city, such as St. Luke's Hospital and various clinics, can fluctuate wildly depending on the time of day, potentially adding significant stress for those seeking medical attention.

Outside of the personal vehicle, public transportation plays a crucial role in healthcare access. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service throughout New Bedford, with several routes serving the 02744 ZIP code. Key routes include the 2, 3, and 7, which connect residential areas with healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be a limiting factor, particularly for those needing urgent care. Furthermore, the availability of accessible vehicles equipped with ADA features is essential for individuals with disabilities, and SRTA strives to meet these needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who find public transit inconvenient. The availability of these services, however, can vary depending on demand and the time of day. During off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas, wait times for a ride-share can be extended, potentially hindering timely access to healthcare. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs that prevent them from using other forms of transportation. Several companies, including MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR), operate in the New Bedford area, offering ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport. These services are crucial for individuals requiring specialized assistance, but they often come with higher costs and may require pre-booking.

The overall health score for 02744 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation options. While the presence of multiple modes of transportation provides a degree of flexibility, the limitations of each option must be considered. The reliance on personal vehicles can lead to delays due to traffic congestion, while public transit may be limited by route frequency and accessibility challenges. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be subject to availability and cost constraints. Medical transport services provide specialized assistance but can be expensive.

For individuals considering moving to New Bedford, understanding these transportation factors is crucial for evaluating healthcare access. The proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas, the reliability of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services should all be carefully considered. Prospective residents, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions or mobility limitations, should thoroughly research the transportation options available to ensure they can readily access the medical care they need.

The healthcare access landscape in 02744 is not static. Efforts are continuously being made to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare services. The city and SRTA are exploring ways to enhance bus service frequency and expand route coverage. Healthcare providers are investing in telemedicine and telehealth services to provide remote access to medical care. These initiatives, along with the ongoing presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, are all aimed at improving the overall health score for residents of 02744.

The accessibility of healthcare in 02744 is also influenced by the location of healthcare facilities. St. Luke's Hospital, a major medical center, is centrally located and serves as a primary point of care for many residents. Numerous clinics and specialty practices are also dispersed throughout the city, providing a range of medical services. The proximity of these facilities to residential areas and the ease with which they can be accessed via various transportation modes directly impact the overall health score.

The affordability of healthcare is another critical factor. The cost of medical care, including transportation expenses, can be a significant barrier for some residents. Individuals with limited financial resources may struggle to afford ride-sharing services or medical transport, potentially delaying or forgoing necessary medical care. The availability of financial assistance programs and the affordability of healthcare services in the area are crucial considerations when evaluating the overall health score.

The overall health score for 02744 is not merely a numerical value; it reflects the lived experiences of residents seeking healthcare. It encompasses the ease of navigating the transportation network, the availability of public transit, the convenience of ride-sharing, and the accessibility of medical transport services. It also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities, the affordability of medical care, and the overall quality of healthcare services available in the area.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 02744 is a complex metric that reflects the multifaceted challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. While the area offers a range of transportation options, each with its own limitations, the ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare services are contributing to a more accessible and equitable healthcare landscape. For those considering moving to New Bedford, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being.