02858, Oakland, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02858, Oakland, Rhode Island is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

10.05 percent of residents in 02858 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Landmark Medical Center with a distance of 8.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oakland, RI (ZIP Code 02858)

Oakland, Rhode Island, nestled within the 02858 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, inextricably linked to the ease with which residents can access healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation infrastructure and available options, providing an 'Overall Health Score' based on the accessibility of medical services. The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, all crucial components of healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to Oakland.

The foundation of Oakland's transportation network is its road system. The primary artery is Route 116, which snakes through the town, offering direct access to local businesses and residential areas. Route 116 connects to Route 146, a major north-south highway that facilitates travel to Providence and surrounding communities. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. A trip to Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, a key healthcare provider, typically takes 15-20 minutes via Route 116 and Route 146 under normal conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more, impacting the promptness of care.

Further afield, access to larger hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, requires a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, primarily utilizing Route 146 and I-95. This longer travel time underscores the importance of readily available and reliable transportation options for Oakland residents. The condition of the roads, including the presence of potholes and the frequency of traffic incidents, further influences the efficiency and safety of these commutes.

Public transportation, while present, plays a limited role in healthcare access within Oakland. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but the frequency and coverage are not extensive. Route 28, a key bus route, serves the area, connecting Oakland to Woonsocket and Providence. However, the bus schedules are limited, especially on weekends and evenings, making it challenging for residents to rely solely on public transit for medical appointments.

Furthermore, the accessibility of RIPTA buses for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. All RIPTA buses are ADA-compliant, equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the distance from bus stops to medical facilities can still pose a challenge for some individuals. The availability of accessible sidewalks and crosswalks along the routes is also a factor in assessing overall healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for residents of Oakland. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially mitigating the limitations of public transit and the challenges of personal vehicle ownership. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. During off-peak hours, it may be easier and less expensive to secure a ride. However, during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability, ride-sharing can become costly, potentially creating a barrier to healthcare access for low-income residents.

Medical transport services specifically designed for patients, such as MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR), provide transportation for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services often require prior scheduling and may not be readily available for urgent or unexpected medical needs. The cost of medical transport services can also be a significant factor, particularly for those without adequate insurance coverage.

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Oakland, RI (02858) is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. While the road network provides reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for extended drive times during peak hours are significant considerations. The limited public transit options, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, further complicate healthcare access for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers a valuable alternative, but the cost and availability can fluctuate. Medical transport services provide a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs, but their limitations in terms of availability and cost must be acknowledged.

Factors that could improve the 'Overall Health Score' include:

* **Increased RIPTA service frequency and route coverage:** Expanding bus routes and increasing the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles.
* **Investment in infrastructure improvements:** Maintaining and improving the condition of roads, including Route 116 and Route 146, would reduce travel times and improve safety.
* **Expansion of ride-sharing services:** Encouraging ride-sharing companies to increase their presence in the area and offering subsidized ride-sharing programs for low-income residents could improve affordability and accessibility.
* **Community partnerships:** Collaborating with local healthcare providers and community organizations to provide transportation assistance programs, such as volunteer driver programs or transportation vouchers, could further improve healthcare access.

Considering these factors, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Oakland, RI (02858) is a 6 out of 10. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the transportation options present challenges that can impact the ease and timeliness of receiving medical care. The score reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand access to affordable and reliable transportation options for all residents, especially those considering moving to Oakland.