02865, Lincoln, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02865, Lincoln, Rhode Island is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.23 percent of residents in 02865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Fatima Hospital with a distance of 3.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02865

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Lincoln, Rhode Island, ZIP code 02865, focusing on healthcare access through various transportation methods. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is crucial for their overall well-being. Factors considered include drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Lincoln and assessing the practicality of healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Lincoln is undoubtedly the automobile. The town's layout and the location of major healthcare providers necessitate reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. Assessing drive times to key medical facilities is therefore paramount.

The primary arteries for commuting within and outside Lincoln are Route 146 and Route 295. From central Lincoln, a drive to Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, a major regional hospital, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive primarily utilizes Route 146. Further south, access to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a Level I trauma center and the state's largest hospital, involves a drive of approximately 25-35 minutes, often utilizing Route 146 south and then Interstate 95.

Other healthcare options, such as specialty clinics and urgent care facilities, are scattered throughout the region. Accessing these facilities will often involve navigating local roads like Smithfield Road, George Washington Highway, and Old Louisquisset Pike. Drive times to these locations vary, but generally, most healthcare destinations are reachable within a 30-minute drive.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its efficacy is limited in Lincoln. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive within the town. Route 65, for example, runs along Smithfield Road, connecting Lincoln with Providence and Woonsocket. This route offers access to some medical facilities, though the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be a significant barrier for some residents.

ADA accessibility on RIPTA buses is standard, with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall coverage of RIPTA within Lincoln is sparse, potentially making it challenging for those without access to a personal vehicle to reach many healthcare providers. The wait times and the need to transfer between routes can also significantly extend the travel time.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lincoln, offering another transportation alternative. The availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited demand. While ride-sharing provides door-to-door service, the cost can be a barrier for some, and the reliability of availability is not always guaranteed.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized transportation. Companies like MedStar and AMR (American Medical Response) operate in the area, providing ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation due to medical conditions. The cost of these services is often covered by insurance, but co-pays and deductibles can still be a financial burden.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Lincoln, ZIP code 02865, is moderate. While the availability of personal vehicles provides relatively easy access to many healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services reduce the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Lincoln, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of traffic patterns and potential travel times. Those without access to a car should factor in the limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport, which can impact both convenience and cost.

The proximity of Lincoln to Providence, with its wider range of healthcare facilities, is a significant advantage. However, the drive times to Providence can be considerable, particularly during peak hours. The availability of healthcare facilities within Lincoln itself is limited, further increasing the reliance on transportation to access necessary medical care.

The healthcare landscape in Lincoln is constantly evolving. New clinics and medical practices may open, potentially reducing drive times and improving healthcare access. The expansion of RIPTA services or the introduction of alternative transportation options, such as micro-transit, could also significantly improve the overall health score.

In conclusion, while Lincoln offers relatively good access to healthcare for those with personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with other transportation options present challenges. For those considering moving to Lincoln, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the potential impact on healthcare access is essential. The overall health score reflects a balance between the advantages of personal vehicle access and the limitations of alternative transportation options, highlighting the importance of careful planning and consideration for residents of ZIP code 02865. The future of healthcare access in Lincoln hinges on addressing the transportation needs of all residents, ensuring that healthcare is accessible and equitable for everyone.