02893, West Warwick, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02893, West Warwick, Rhode Island is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.38 percent of residents in 02893 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kent County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02893 (West Warwick, RI)

This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 02893, encompassing West Warwick, Rhode Island. It considers transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents, potential newcomers, and those considering moving to West Warwick, offering insight into the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care.

The score will be determined by assessing the efficiency, reliability, and affordability of transportation options to various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, specialist offices, and urgent care centers. The analysis will also consider the presence of ADA-accessible features on public transit routes, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the existence of medical transport options, all crucial elements that impact the overall health and well-being of residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

West Warwick, Rhode Island, is conveniently situated, offering relatively easy access to healthcare facilities within and beyond its borders. Driving remains a primary mode of transportation, and the condition of the roads, along with average commute times, significantly influences the overall health score. Major roadways like **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, running just east of West Warwick, and **Route 2** are vital arteries.

Traveling north on I-95 provides access to hospitals and medical centers in Providence, Rhode Island, a drive that typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading south on I-95 leads to facilities in Warwick and surrounding areas, usually a 15 to 20-minute journey. Route 2, a major thoroughfare running through West Warwick, offers direct access to local medical offices and clinics.

Local roads, such as **Washington Street**, **New London Avenue**, and **Providence Street**, connect residential areas to these main roadways. Rush hour traffic, especially during weekday mornings and evenings, can impact drive times, potentially increasing commute times to healthcare facilities. This factor will be carefully considered in the overall health score assessment.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service within West Warwick and to surrounding communities. The availability and efficiency of public transit are critical for residents who do not own a vehicle or cannot drive. Several RIPTA routes serve the area, offering connections to healthcare facilities.

**Route 14** is a key route, connecting West Warwick to Providence, with stops near major hospitals and medical centers. The travel time on this route can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic and the number of stops. **Route 29** also provides service within West Warwick and to neighboring towns.

The presence of ADA-accessible features on RIPTA buses, such as ramps and designated seating, is crucial for individuals with disabilities. All RIPTA buses are equipped with these features, ensuring that public transit is accessible to all residents. The frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, will also be assessed, as it directly impacts the convenience and reliability of public transit for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, adds another layer of transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, providing convenience and flexibility. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, are also available. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained staff. The presence of medical transport providers, such as **Medicaid Transportation** or **Care Ride**, is a significant positive factor in the overall health score. The cost and eligibility requirements for these services will be considered.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

The proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities within and near West Warwick are crucial. The analysis will consider the presence of hospitals, urgent care centers, primary care physicians, specialist offices, and pharmacies. The ease of access to these facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, will significantly impact the overall health score.

**Kent Hospital**, located in Warwick, is a major healthcare provider easily accessible from West Warwick. Several urgent care centers are also located in the area, offering convenient options for non-emergency medical needs. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and dermatologists, will be assessed to determine the comprehensiveness of healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in ZIP Code 02893 will be determined by weighing the factors discussed above. Drive times, especially during peak hours, will be carefully considered. The frequency and reliability of RIPTA routes, including the presence of ADA-accessible features, will be evaluated. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services will also be assessed.

The final score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare facilities, providing a valuable resource for residents, potential newcomers, and those considering moving to West Warwick. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This comprehensive assessment will contribute to a better understanding of healthcare access within the community.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in West Warwick, ZIP Code 02893, will be a multifaceted assessment, considering all forms of transportation. While the area benefits from its proximity to major roadways and the presence of RIPTA bus routes, the impact of traffic, the frequency of bus service, and the cost of ride-sharing services will play a significant role in determining the final score. The availability of medical transport options and the proximity of healthcare facilities will also be crucial factors. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare accessibility landscape in West Warwick, Rhode Island, offering valuable insights for all stakeholders.