02838, Manville, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02838, Manville, Rhode Island is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.55 percent of residents in 02838 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kent County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Manville, RI (ZIP Code 02838)

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Manville, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02838) requires a comprehensive evaluation of transportation options. This includes drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all crucial for residents seeking healthcare. This analysis will inform those considering moving to Manville, providing insights into the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities.

Manville, a small town nestled in the Blackstone Valley, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its location, while offering a sense of community, can impact the proximity and accessibility of healthcare services. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount to evaluating the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for many Manville residents is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. The major roadways serving Manville are Route 116 and Route 146. Route 116, running north-south, provides direct access to the town center and connects to surrounding communities. Route 146, a major highway, facilitates travel towards Providence and Worcester, offering access to a wider range of healthcare providers.

Traveling to Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, a major regional hospital, typically takes 10-15 minutes via Route 116 and then onto Route 146. Reaching Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a tertiary care center, can take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic congestion on Route 146 and the I-95 corridor. Smaller clinics and doctor's offices within the immediate vicinity of Manville, such as those in North Smithfield and Lincoln, offer shorter drive times, often under 10 minutes.

Traffic conditions, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend these drive times. Accidents or road closures on Route 146 can cause considerable delays. Therefore, residents should factor in potential travel time fluctuations when scheduling appointments.

**Public Transportation:**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service to Manville, offering a crucial alternative for those without personal vehicles. Route 13, the primary bus route serving Manville, connects the town to Woonsocket and Providence. This route operates with varying frequency, with more frequent service during peak hours.

The accessibility of RIPTA services is a significant factor in the overall health score. While Route 13 provides a vital link, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, can be limited. This can create challenges for residents needing to attend appointments outside of typical business hours.

RIPTA strives to provide accessible transportation for all riders, including those with disabilities. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. RIPTA also offers a "Flex" service, a demand-response transportation option, in certain areas. This service may be available for residents in Manville, offering door-to-door transportation for medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular transportation options. Both services operate in the Manville area, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The availability of these services, however, can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing specialized transportation to and from healthcare appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport providers operate in the Rhode Island area, including MedStar Ambulance and American Ambulance.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a barrier for some residents. While these services offer convenience, the expenses can add up, particularly for frequent appointments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Manville is influenced by the interplay of these transportation options. The availability of multiple transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, contributes to a more robust healthcare access environment.

However, several factors can negatively impact the score. Limited public transit frequency, traffic congestion, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can create challenges for residents. The distance to specialized medical facilities in Providence also adds to the complexity.

**Improving the Health Score:**

Several strategies can enhance the overall health score for healthcare access in Manville. Increasing the frequency of RIPTA service, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends, would greatly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could offer subsidized transportation options for patients. Promoting the availability and affordability of medical transport services is also essential.

Furthermore, community initiatives that promote walking and cycling, such as improved sidewalks and bike lanes, can encourage healthier lifestyles and reduce reliance on motorized transportation for local appointments.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Manville, RI (ZIP Code 02838) is a nuanced assessment. While residents have access to a range of transportation options, challenges exist. Drive times can be impacted by traffic, public transit frequency can be limited, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be prohibitive.

For those considering moving to Manville, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. The town's location, while offering a sense of community, requires careful consideration of transportation needs. By addressing the identified challenges and implementing strategic improvements, Manville can enhance its overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to healthcare.