02802, Albion, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02802, Albion, Rhode Island is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.35 percent of residents in 02802 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 32.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Albion, RI (ZIP Code 02802)

The overall health score for residents of Albion, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02802), hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing a detailed assessment of drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Albion, as they directly influence the ease and efficiency of receiving necessary medical care.

Albion, a quaint village within the town of Lincoln, presents a unique challenge. Its relative remoteness, coupled with limited public transportation, necessitates a thorough examination of available transportation options. The score reflects the degree of convenience, affordability, and accessibility of these options, ultimately determining the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries serving Albion are Route 116 and Route 146. These roads are essential for commuting to neighboring towns and cities where major healthcare providers are located. Route 116, running north-south, connects Albion to Lincoln and Smithfield, offering access to local medical offices and clinics. Route 146, a major highway, provides a faster route to Providence, the state's healthcare hub, and the Massachusetts border.

Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. Reaching the closest urgent care facility in Lincoln via Route 116 typically takes 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. A trip to a specialist in Providence, utilizing Route 146, can range from 20-40 minutes, depending on the time of day. Rush hour can significantly extend these travel times, impacting healthcare access.

The roads themselves are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose challenges. Snow and ice can increase travel times and create hazardous conditions, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. Careful planning and awareness of weather forecasts are essential for Albion residents.

**Public Transportation Options:**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides limited public transportation options in the Albion area. Several bus routes serve the surrounding communities, but their frequency and coverage within Albion itself are limited. This can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Route 24, for example, offers service along Route 146, connecting to Providence. However, the bus stops are not always conveniently located within Albion, and the frequency of service may not align with medical appointment schedules. The travel time on public transit is considerably longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey.

RIPTA buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited routes and infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many residents, particularly those with mobility challenges or complex medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for Albion residents. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services offer a more convenient option for individuals with mobility limitations, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

Companies like MedTrans and First Transit provide medical transportation services in the Providence metropolitan area, including Albion. These services cater to a specific need, but the cost and availability are factors to consider.

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

The overall health score for Albion residents reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score is diminished by the limited public transit options, the potential for lengthy drive times, and the reliance on personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some relief, but these options are not always readily accessible or affordable.

The score is further impacted by the availability of healthcare providers within Albion itself. While there may be some local medical offices and clinics, residents often need to travel to Providence or other surrounding areas for specialized care. This necessitates careful consideration of transportation options.

**Impact on Moving to Albion:**

For individuals considering moving to Albion, the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access should be a primary consideration. Those without reliable access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in reaching medical appointments. The limited public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation could create a barrier to receiving timely and appropriate healthcare.

Families with young children or individuals with chronic health conditions should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services before making a move. Assessing the availability of specialists, hospitals, and emergency services in relation to transportation options is critical.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for Albion, RI (ZIP Code 02802), is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While driving is the most convenient option, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for lengthy travel times to access specialized care are factors to consider. The limited public transportation options and the variability of ride-sharing services further contribute to the challenges.

For those considering moving to Albion, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and a realistic evaluation of available transportation options are essential. Careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation will be crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care, ultimately impacting the overall health and well-being of Albion residents. The need for enhanced public transportation and improved access to ride-sharing services remains a priority for improving the health score and quality of life in this charming village.