02875, Shannock, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02875, Shannock, Rhode Island is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.64 percent of residents in 02875 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South County Hospital Inc with a distance of 7.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02875 (Shannock, RI)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Shannock, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02875), necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This includes evaluating the practicality and efficiency of transportation options available to reach medical facilities. The ability to readily access healthcare services is a fundamental determinant of community well-being, and this analysis will provide a clear picture of the current landscape for residents.

The rural nature of Shannock significantly influences the available transportation options. Personal vehicles are the primary mode of transport for most residents, creating a reliance on roadways. Drive times to healthcare facilities are crucial, and the quality of the roadways directly impacts this. The proximity to major highways is a significant factor.

The primary thoroughfares for accessing healthcare from Shannock are Route 91 and Route 138. Traveling north on Route 91 connects to I-95, a major artery leading to hospitals and medical centers in Providence and surrounding areas. Southbound on Route 91 leads to Westerly, where local healthcare facilities are available. Route 138 provides an east-west connection, offering access to medical services in the Kingston and Narragansett areas.

Driving times vary based on the destination and traffic conditions. Reaching Westerly Hospital via Route 91 South typically takes around 20-30 minutes, assuming normal traffic flow. Providence, with its numerous hospitals and specialist clinics, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive via I-95 North. Kingston and South County Hospital are roughly a 20-30 minute drive via Route 138.

Public transportation options are limited in Shannock. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but coverage in this area is sparse. Route 61, which runs between Westerly and Kingston, serves some areas near Shannock. However, frequency is limited, and the routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. The absence of direct routes and the infrequent schedules pose significant challenges for residents relying on public transit.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. RIPTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the lack of comprehensive coverage and the potential for long travel times can still present obstacles for individuals with mobility limitations. The overall utility of public transit for healthcare access in Shannock is relatively low.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, their availability and affordability can fluctuate. Ride-share services can provide a more flexible transportation option than public transit, particularly for those who do not own a car. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand, as well as the potential for limited availability in rural areas, can impact their reliability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another option. Companies like Care Ride and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. While these services can be invaluable, they come with associated costs and require advance booking.

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in Shannock is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. While the proximity to major roadways provides access to a range of healthcare facilities, the absence of robust public transit and the potential for high transportation costs for those without personal vehicles present challenges.

The overall health score is also influenced by the socioeconomic factors of the community. Income levels and access to insurance significantly impact the ability of residents to afford transportation and healthcare services. Individuals with lower incomes or limited insurance coverage may face greater barriers to accessing care.

The health score also considers the availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance can significantly improve healthcare access. The density of healthcare providers in the surrounding towns of Westerly, Kingston, and Providence directly impacts the overall health score.

For individuals considering moving to Shannock, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. The ability to drive, or the availability of a reliable alternative, is essential for accessing healthcare. Prospective residents should factor in the potential costs of transportation, including vehicle ownership, fuel, and ride-sharing expenses.

The health score should be regularly reviewed and updated. Changes in public transportation routes, the introduction of new ride-sharing services, or the expansion of healthcare facilities in the area can all influence the score. The ongoing monitoring of these factors ensures that the health score accurately reflects the current state of healthcare access in Shannock.

In conclusion, the overall health score for transportation to healthcare in Shannock, RI (02875) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major roadways provides access to a range of healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. Residents must carefully consider these factors when assessing their healthcare access needs. The ongoing monitoring of these factors is essential to ensure that the health score accurately reflects the current state of healthcare access in Shannock.