02770, Rochester, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02770, Rochester, Massachusetts is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.34 percent of residents in 02770 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 16.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Rochester, MA (ZIP Code 02770)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when settling into a new community like Rochester, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02770). This assessment provides an 'Overall Health Score' by examining the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching essential medical services. This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can access physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare providers, ultimately influencing their overall well-being.

The 'Overall Health Score' considers several factors: drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and practicality of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing options, and the availability of specialized medical transport services. It acknowledges that healthcare access is not merely about the presence of facilities but also about the ability to reach them conveniently and affordably.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Rochester, a charming town nestled in the southeastern Massachusetts landscape, presents a transportation profile primarily reliant on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for navigating the region are Route 105, Route 495, and Route 195. Driving times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by these roadways.

For routine primary care, residents can often find options within Rochester itself, minimizing travel time. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities like New Bedford or Fall River. The drive to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, the closest major hospital, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 195.

Similarly, reaching Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River requires a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow on Route 195. These drive times, while manageable, can become problematic during peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially delaying access to crucial medical attention. Residents considering moving to Rochester should factor these commute times into their healthcare planning.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Rochester are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus services, but routes serving Rochester are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

Route 10, for example, offers service along New Bedford-Mattapoisett, but does not directly service all of the healthcare facilities in the area. The frequency of these buses can be a significant drawback, particularly for appointments with tight schedules. Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) should be carefully investigated.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions for those who cannot drive or do not own a car. The limited public transportation options are a significant contributor to a lower 'Overall Health Score' for those reliant on this mode of travel.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The emergence of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered an alternative to traditional transportation. However, their availability in Rochester can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand may increase costs. Residents should assess the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services for their specific healthcare needs.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or requiring assistance. These services can be crucial for accessing healthcare, particularly for those needing regular dialysis treatments, physical therapy, or other ongoing medical care. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Rochester, MA (ZIP Code 02770) is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. While residents with personal vehicles have relatively reasonable access to a range of healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options and the potential variability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for those without personal vehicles.

The distance to major hospitals and specialized care centers, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can also add to the stress and inconvenience of accessing healthcare. This can negatively affect the overall well-being of residents, particularly those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To enhance the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Rochester, several improvements are recommended. Increasing the frequency and coverage of SRTA bus routes, particularly those connecting to healthcare facilities, would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting awareness of available medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those in need could further improve access. Moreover, encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within Rochester, such as urgent care clinics or specialty practices, would reduce the need for long-distance travel.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Rochester, MA (ZIP Code 02770) reflects a mixed picture. While residents with personal vehicles have reasonable access to healthcare, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services pose barriers for some. Prospective residents considering moving to Rochester should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. By addressing the transportation challenges and promoting accessible healthcare options, Rochester can strive to improve its 'Overall Health Score' and ensure that all residents can easily access the care they need. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape directly impacts the quality of life and the overall health of the community.