02790, Westport, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02790, Westport, Massachusetts is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.20 percent of residents in 02790 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 21.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Westport, MA (ZIP Code 02790)

The pursuit of optimal health necessitates a multifaceted approach, and a crucial element often overlooked is the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access in Westport, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02790), providing an "Overall Health Score" based on the available options. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, painting a detailed picture for anyone considering moving to Westport or currently residing within its borders.

Westport, a charming coastal community, presents a unique challenge. Its relative isolation, while contributing to its appeal, also impacts healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect this delicate balance, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of available transportation options.

### Drive Times: The Road to Wellness

For many Westport residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option is heavily influenced by distance and traffic patterns. Major thoroughfares like Route 6, a primary east-west artery, and Route 177, a more local north-south route, serve as the lifelines connecting Westport to surrounding communities and, crucially, to medical facilities.

Driving to the nearest hospitals, like Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River (approximately 15-20 minutes) or St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford (roughly 25-30 minutes), is generally manageable. However, peak traffic times, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend these travel times, potentially impacting the urgency of healthcare needs. The presence of smaller medical offices and clinics within Westport itself mitigates this somewhat, but specialized care often necessitates travel to larger facilities.

Furthermore, the condition of the roads and weather conditions, particularly during the harsh New England winters, can further complicate travel. Snow and ice can transform a short drive into a hazardous journey, potentially delaying access to critical medical attention. This factor underscores the importance of preparedness, including having a reliable vehicle and being mindful of weather forecasts.

### Public Transit: A Limited Network

Public transportation options in Westport are limited, which significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score." The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. Route 12, for example, connects Westport to Fall River, offering a potential link to healthcare facilities, but the schedule may not align with all medical appointments or urgent care needs.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. SRTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the limited route network and infrequent service can still pose challenges for those relying on public transit, especially when dealing with mobility issues or chronic conditions. The lack of a dedicated, direct route to major medical centers further complicates matters.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Westport, offering a potentially convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, particularly during peak demand or in less populated areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can become expensive, and the reliability of service is not always guaranteed.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like AMR (American Medical Response) or local ambulance services, provide a vital lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical emergencies. These services are equipped to transport patients safely and efficiently to medical facilities. However, they are typically reserved for specific medical needs and may not be suitable for routine appointments or preventative care.

### Evaluating the "Overall Health Score"

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Westport (ZIP Code 02790) is moderate. While the proximity to hospitals in neighboring cities is a positive factor, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges of driving, particularly during peak hours and inclement weather, create significant hurdles.

The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transportation adds some flexibility, but these options are not always readily accessible or affordable. For those considering moving to Westport, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences is essential.

The "Overall Health Score" for Westport is influenced by the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. Proximity to hospitals is good, but traffic and weather can impact travel.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. Infrequent service and limited routes restrict accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Variable. Availability and cost fluctuate.
* **Medical Transportation:** Essential. Provides critical support for specific needs.

### Recommendations for Improvement

To enhance the "Overall Health Score" for Westport, several improvements could be considered. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanded routes and more frequent service, would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve access.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would be crucial. Finally, advocating for improved road maintenance and traffic management could minimize travel delays, particularly during peak hours and inclement weather.

### Conclusion

Access to healthcare is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. In Westport, the transportation landscape presents a mixed bag. While the community enjoys relatively close proximity to medical facilities, the limited public transit options and potential challenges of driving necessitate careful consideration. Anyone considering moving to Westport must weigh these factors, understanding that their ability to access healthcare may be influenced by their individual circumstances and transportation preferences. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a starting point for this crucial assessment, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access that considers all available transportation options.