02777, Swansea, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02777, Swansea, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.67 percent of residents in 02777 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 12.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Swansea, MA (ZIP Code 02777)

For individuals considering a move to Swansea, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02777), understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," considering various transportation options and their impact on accessing medical services. The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential healthcare providers, encompassing drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and specialized medical transport.

The "Overall Health Score" for Swansea, MA, is moderately positive. While the area offers a reasonable range of healthcare facilities within a manageable distance, transportation options present certain limitations. This score reflects a balance between readily available services and the challenges posed by reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit infrastructure, and the availability of ride-sharing services.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Swansea's geographical location offers both advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. The town is strategically positioned with access to major roadways, but traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities include Interstate 195 (I-195), Route 6, and Route 136.

Driving to the major healthcare hubs in the region, such as Saint Anne’s Hospital in Fall River, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via I-195 East. This drive is generally straightforward, though rush hour traffic can extend the commute. Accessing Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI, a more comprehensive facility, involves a longer drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, primarily via I-195 West. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments and emergencies.

Access to smaller clinics and specialized practices within Swansea and neighboring towns like Somerset and Fall River is generally convenient, with drive times typically under 15 minutes. This local accessibility contributes positively to the overall health score. However, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and the potential challenges for individuals without access to a car.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Swansea are limited, posing a significant challenge for those who do not drive. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not extensive, limiting their utility for healthcare access.

The primary SRTA routes serving Swansea include Route 1, Route 2, and Route 10. Route 1 connects Swansea to Fall River, offering access to Saint Anne’s Hospital. Route 2 provides service to Somerset and Fall River, while Route 10 offers a connection to Providence, RI. However, these routes often have limited schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings, which can make it difficult to schedule medical appointments or access emergency care.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. SRTA strives to provide accessible services, but the limitations in route frequency and coverage can still present barriers. The lack of comprehensive public transit significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Swansea and offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be unpredictable, especially for urgent medical needs.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring assistance. These services are particularly important for those with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the availability of these services can be limited, especially during peak hours or in remote areas.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for Swansea, MA, reflects the following considerations:

* **Drive Time:** Relatively short drive times to local clinics and hospitals contribute positively to the score.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options significantly detract from the score.
* **Ride-Share:** Ride-sharing provides a supplemental option but is subject to availability and cost.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability of medical transport services is essential for those with specific needs, but cost and availability can be barriers.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Proximity to healthcare facilities in Fall River and Providence contributes to the overall accessibility.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

Individuals considering moving to Swansea should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those who drive and have access to a personal vehicle will find healthcare access relatively convenient. However, those who rely on public transit or ride-sharing should factor in the potential challenges of limited service and unpredictable costs.

Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare providers in the area, including their appointment scheduling processes and the availability of transportation assistance. They should also familiarize themselves with the SRTA bus routes and schedules, as well as the availability of ride-sharing services.

For individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions, it is crucial to investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Planning ahead for healthcare appointments and considering the potential impact of traffic congestion is essential.

**Conclusion:**

Swansea, MA, offers a moderate level of healthcare access. While the town is well-situated with access to major roadways and healthcare facilities, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The "Overall Health Score" reflects a balance between the advantages of proximity to healthcare and the transportation barriers that some residents may face. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are essential for ensuring convenient and reliable healthcare access in Swansea. For those contemplating moving to Swansea, assessing their personal transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services is a critical aspect of the decision-making process.