02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.12 percent of residents in 02791 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 26.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Westport Point (ZIP Code 02791)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Westport Point (02791) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This involves scrutinizing the ease and efficiency of transportation, a crucial determinant of healthcare access. Factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services all contribute to the overall health score. The more readily available and efficient these modes of transportation are, the higher the score, reflecting a greater ability for residents to obtain necessary medical care. Considering a move to Westport Point? Understanding these nuances is paramount.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation for many Westport Point residents. The area's relative isolation dictates this, making a personal vehicle almost essential. Access to healthcare facilities hinges on navigating the roadways. The most direct route to larger hospitals and specialist practices often involves utilizing Route 6, a major east-west artery. Depending on the destination and time of day, traffic can be a factor, especially during peak commuting hours.

Further complicating matters, Route 177, a north-south thoroughfare, provides another vital link, connecting Westport Point to neighboring towns and cities. The condition of these roads, including maintenance and traffic flow, directly impacts the drive times and the overall ease of reaching healthcare providers. Delays due to construction, accidents, or inclement weather can significantly affect healthcare access, particularly for those requiring urgent or scheduled appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in Westport Point, which can impact the overall health score. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) offers some bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align with healthcare appointment needs. Route 10, for example, might offer a connection to Fall River, where some medical facilities are located. However, frequency and travel times can be considerable, making it a less viable option for many.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on SRTA buses is critical for residents with disabilities or mobility limitations. Ensuring these features are consistently available and well-maintained is essential for equitable healthcare access. The lack of robust public transportation infrastructure, especially in a rural area like Westport Point, presents a significant challenge to healthcare access, negatively affecting the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. Their availability in Westport Point, however, is not guaranteed. Ride-sharing services' presence is often dependent on driver density and demand, which can fluctuate. This means that residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a key factor to consider when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the area, including those that provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services for emergencies. The availability, cost, and responsiveness of these services are vital. Delays in medical transport can have serious consequences, especially in emergency situations.

The overall health score for Westport Point residents is significantly influenced by the drive times to various healthcare facilities. The closest primary care physicians and urgent care clinics are likely within a reasonable driving distance, potentially 15-30 minutes. However, access to specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often requires travel to larger hospitals located in Fall River, New Bedford, or even Providence, Rhode Island.

Drive times to these larger facilities can range from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic and the specific location. These longer travel times can add stress and inconvenience, potentially impacting the willingness of residents to seek timely medical care. Furthermore, longer commutes increase the risk of accidents and exposure to environmental hazards, further affecting the overall health score.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity of Westport Point is also a crucial factor. The presence of local clinics, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers reduces the need for extensive travel and improves healthcare access. The proximity of these facilities can significantly impact the overall health score, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Considering a move to Westport Point? Evaluate the healthcare access. The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is paramount. Research the drive times to various healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care clinics. Assess the reliability and cost of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

Furthermore, consider the impact of traffic congestion, road conditions, and weather on travel times. Prioritize areas with convenient access to healthcare services and reliable transportation options. This proactive approach will help ensure that you can receive the medical care you need when you need it, contributing to a higher overall health score and a better quality of life in your new home.

The overall health score for Westport Point (02791) is moderate, reflecting the challenges of rural healthcare access. While the area offers some local healthcare options, residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. The drive times to larger hospitals and specialist practices can be significant, adding to the complexity of healthcare access. Improving public transportation infrastructure, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the responsiveness of medical transportation providers would significantly enhance the overall health score for Westport Point residents, making it a more attractive location for those prioritizing access to healthcare.