The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02825, Foster, Rhode Island is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
33.32 percent of residents in 02825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kent County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.28 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 02825, Foster, Rhode Island
Overall Health Score | 93 |
---|---|
People Score | 71 |
Provider Score | 86 |
Hospital Score | 54 |
Travel Score | 59 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 02825 | Foster | Rhode Island |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.35 | 0.35 | 3.11 |
1 Car | 7.72 | 7.72 | 21.05 |
2 Cars | 29.00 | 29.00 | 43.63 |
3 or More Cars | 62.93 | 62.93 | 32.21 |
Vehicular Access in 02825, Foster, Rhode Island
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02825 (Foster, RI)
The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. In ZIP code 02825, encompassing the town of Foster, Rhode Island, this crucial element is significantly impacted by the realities of **transportation**. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed picture for those considering **moving to Foster** and weighing their **healthcare access** options.
Foster, a primarily rural community, presents unique challenges to healthcare accessibility. The geographical spread of the town, coupled with limited public transit, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. This dependence directly affects the Overall Health Score, as travel time and distance become critical factors in assessing healthcare access.
**Drive Time Dynamics:**
The primary arteries serving Foster are Route 6 and Route 101. Accessing these roads is crucial for reaching hospitals and specialized medical facilities. Drive times to the closest major hospitals, located in Providence, are a significant consideration. Reaching Rhode Island Hospital, a Level I trauma center, typically requires a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey involves navigating Route 6 East, a major thoroughfare that can experience heavy congestion during peak hours, or Route 101 to Route 14 to Route 295 to Route 6.
Women & Infants Hospital, also in Providence, is accessible via similar routes, with comparable drive times. These times are based on ideal conditions, but the reality of Rhode Island traffic often extends these durations. The impact of this travel time on the Overall Health Score is substantial, especially for individuals requiring urgent care or regular appointments.
Furthermore, access to specialized medical facilities, such as cancer centers or cardiology clinics, located further afield, adds to the commute burden. The drive to these facilities can easily exceed an hour, increasing stress and potentially delaying critical care. This geographical isolation and the dependence on personal vehicles are key components of the Overall Health Score.
**Public Transit Limitations:**
Public transit options in Foster are severely limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides some service, but it is sparse and primarily focused on connecting Foster to neighboring towns. The primary bus routes servicing the area are Route 29 (serving the western part of Foster) and Route 65 (connecting to nearby towns).
These routes operate on infrequent schedules, often with limited weekend or evening service. This severely restricts their utility for accessing healthcare, particularly for those with appointments outside of standard business hours. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve healthcare facilities, requiring transfers or a significant walk to reach medical offices.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the RIPTA buses is a crucial factor. All RIPTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, the limited frequency and route coverage of these buses still present a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. The limited public transit options negatively impact the Overall Health Score, especially for those who rely on public transit.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Foster, but their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. The availability of drivers is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, common during periods of high demand, can make these services unaffordable for many residents.
Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often covered by insurance, but they require pre-booking and may involve waiting times. They are a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit, but their availability and cost still influence the Overall Health Score.
**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**
Based on the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for access to healthcare in ZIP code 02825 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access for many residents.
While drive times to major hospitals are manageable under ideal conditions, traffic congestion and the geographical spread of healthcare facilities can extend travel times, potentially delaying critical care. The lack of robust public transit and the limitations of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges.
For individuals **moving to Foster**, careful consideration of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors is crucial. While the rural setting offers a peaceful lifestyle, it comes with the trade-off of potentially longer travel times to medical appointments. Residents should proactively plan their healthcare needs, explore all available **transportation** options, and consider the potential impact on their overall well-being. The Overall Health Score highlights the need for residents to be proactive in planning their healthcare needs, particularly in a community where access is not always readily available.
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