02824, Forestdale, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02824, Forestdale, Rhode Island is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 02824 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 37.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02824 (Forestdale, Rhode Island)

Forestdale, Rhode Island, nestled within the 02824 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and suburban convenience. However, the accessibility of healthcare, a cornerstone of overall well-being, hinges significantly on the efficiency and availability of transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can access medical facilities, considering various modes of transportation and their inherent limitations. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Forestdale**, ensuring a seamless transition to a community that prioritizes health and wellness.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the understanding that efficient **transportation** directly impacts **healthcare access**. Delays, limited options, and physical barriers can create significant obstacles for residents seeking medical attention, impacting their health outcomes and quality of life. This analysis will explore the existing landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses, to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare accessibility within the 02824 ZIP code.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in Forestdale is the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents certain challenges. The proximity to major roadways is a significant advantage. Accessing medical facilities via car is typically straightforward, though peak traffic hours can add considerable time to commutes.

Major arteries like **Route 146** serve as the primary conduit, offering relatively direct access to Providence and its surrounding healthcare hubs. Driving south on Route 146 provides access to Rhode Island Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, and the various specialty clinics clustered around the downtown area. The drive, depending on traffic, can range from 20 to 40 minutes.

Alternatively, heading north on **Route 146** leads towards Woonsocket, where Landmark Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services. This drive is generally shorter, averaging 10 to 20 minutes. The secondary roadways, including **Douglas Pike (Route 7)** and **Smithfield Road (Route 5)**, offer alternative routes, though they are often more congested and may involve navigating through residential areas.

The availability of ample parking at most medical facilities is generally not a major concern, however, parking fees at facilities in Providence can be a factor. Residents should factor in these costs when planning their medical appointments. Navigating the local roads, particularly during inclement weather, can pose challenges, especially for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit Perspectives:**

Public transportation options within and around Forestdale are limited, posing a significant challenge to those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not always conducive to easy healthcare access.

**Route 19 (Smithfield/Woonsocket)** is the primary bus route serving the area, offering connections to Woonsocket and Providence. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, potentially leading to extended wait times and longer overall commute times.

The buses themselves are equipped with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** features, including ramps and designated seating areas, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited route coverage and the need for transfers to reach certain healthcare facilities can create additional complexities.

The lack of direct routes to many specialized clinics and hospitals outside of the immediate Woonsocket and Providence areas further complicates matters. Residents relying on public transit may face significant travel times and logistical hurdles when seeking specialized medical care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area and offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further exacerbate the expense.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including:

* **American Medical Response (AMR)**
* **CareLink**
* **Medicaid Transportation Providers**

These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the insurance coverage.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in the 02824 ZIP code is moderately positive, but with significant caveats. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services pose challenges for some residents.

**Strengths:**

* Proximity to major roadways (Route 146, Route 7, Route 5) provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities by car.
* Availability of ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft).
* Presence of medical transportation services.

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public transit options with infrequent service and indirect routes.
* Potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
* Cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation.
* Dependence on personal vehicles, which can be a barrier for those without access to a car.

**Recommendations:**

* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Increased frequency and expanded route coverage for RIPTA buses, particularly to connect Forestdale with a broader range of healthcare facilities, would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Explore the possibility of offering subsidized ride-sharing programs for low-income residents or those with mobility limitations to reduce transportation costs.
* **Enhance Information Accessibility:** Provide clear and accessible information about all available transportation options, including public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, to help residents make informed decisions.
* **Community Partnerships:** Foster partnerships between healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations to create integrated transportation solutions that meet the diverse needs of the population.
* **Prioritize Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety:** Enhance pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure to encourage active transportation options, particularly for shorter trips to local medical facilities.

By addressing these recommendations, Forestdale can improve its Overall Health Score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare services they need, creating a healthier and more vibrant community for those **moving to Forestdale**.