02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.20 percent of residents in 02860 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Miriam Hospital with a distance of 1.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02860 (Pawtucket, RI)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the ease with which residents of ZIP code 02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, can reach medical facilities, providing an "Overall Health Score" that considers various transportation options. This score informs anyone **moving to Pawtucket** and helps current residents understand their healthcare **access** landscape. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive view of the **transportation** challenges and opportunities in this area.

Pawtucket, a city steeped in history and resilience, presents a unique blend of urban and suburban characteristics. Its healthcare landscape is shaped by its proximity to Providence, the state's capital and a major medical hub. The city's health score, therefore, is heavily influenced by the efficiency of its **transportation** networks connecting it to these vital resources. This report will consider the major factors influencing this score.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary roadways impacting healthcare **access** are Interstate 95 (I-95), Route 1A (Newport Avenue), and Route 114 (New Main Street). The time it takes to reach medical facilities is significantly affected by traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

Reaching major hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital in Providence, both located approximately 5-7 miles away, can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-95. During rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour. The availability of parking at these facilities is another factor, as spaces can be limited and require additional time to secure.

For those seeking care at local clinics and urgent care centers within Pawtucket, the drive times are generally shorter, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. However, even these shorter trips can be hampered by traffic on Route 1A and Route 114, particularly near the city's commercial centers. These times are critical for anyone **moving to Pawtucket**, as they directly impact the ease of obtaining medical attention.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides public transit services in Pawtucket. Several bus routes serve the area, offering an alternative to driving. Key routes for healthcare **access** include the 1, 28, and 99, which connect Pawtucket to Providence and other surrounding communities.

The 1 route, for instance, travels along Newport Avenue and provides direct access to several medical offices and clinics. The 28 route offers connections to hospitals and medical facilities in Providence. The 99 route serves the Pawtucket/Central Falls area.

While public transit offers a valuable service, several factors impact its effectiveness for healthcare **access**. Travel times are often longer than driving, and the frequency of buses may not always align with individual needs. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for those with mobility impairments, and RIPTA has made efforts to ensure accessibility across its fleet. The convenience of **transportation** is an important factor for anyone **moving to Pawtucket**.

The RIPTA website provides detailed route maps and schedules, allowing residents to plan their trips effectively. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential delays can add to the stress of seeking medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand **transportation** options for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services can be particularly useful for appointments at hospitals and clinics.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Pawtucket is generally good, but the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of a ride.

Medical transport services, such as Care New England Transportation and other private companies, provide specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Medical transport services are generally more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they offer a valuable service for those who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. The availability and cost of these services are crucial considerations for those with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in ZIP code 02860 is moderately positive. While Pawtucket benefits from its proximity to Providence and its robust healthcare infrastructure, several factors impact the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities.

Drive times, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. Public transit offers a viable alternative, but travel times and frequency can be limiting. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide on-demand solutions, but cost and availability can be concerns.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations are offered.

* **Improve traffic flow:** Invest in traffic management systems and infrastructure improvements to reduce congestion on I-95, Route 1A, and Route 114.
* **Enhance public transit:** Increase the frequency of bus routes, particularly during peak hours, and expand the network to better serve areas with limited **healthcare access**.
* **Promote ride-sharing and medical transport:** Provide incentives for ride-sharing services to serve the area and explore partnerships with medical transport providers to offer affordable options.
* **Improve accessibility:** Ensure all medical facilities are easily accessible by public transit and that ADA-accessible **transportation** options are readily available.
* **Inform residents:** Provide clear and accessible information about all available **transportation** options for healthcare, including route maps, schedules, and cost comparisons.

By addressing these issues, Pawtucket can significantly improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable **healthcare access**, making it a more attractive place for anyone **moving to Pawtucket**.