02909, Providence, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02909, Providence, Rhode Island is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.79 percent of residents in 02909 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Providence Va Medical Center with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02909

This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access within ZIP Code 02909, a Providence, Rhode Island area. It assesses the accessibility of medical facilities, considering various transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate care. This score reflects the ease with which individuals can navigate the transportation landscape to reach essential healthcare services. Considering a potential move to Providence, this information is vital.

The core of this assessment hinges on the understanding that access to healthcare is not merely about the presence of facilities but also the ease with which one can reach them. This involves evaluating commute times via different modes of transportation, the availability of public transit, and the presence of alternative transportation options. The analysis considers the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, including the condition of roads, the frequency of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in 02909 include Interstate 95 (I-95), the primary north-south corridor, and Route 195, which travels east-west. These highways are critical for accessing healthcare facilities located outside the immediate vicinity. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, significantly impacts drive times. The average drive time to major hospitals, such as Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital, can vary dramatically depending on the time of day.

Smaller roads, like Elmwood Avenue, Broad Street, and Cranston Street, offer alternative routes but are often subject to stop-and-go traffic and signal delays. These roads provide access to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities, but the overall commute time can still be substantial, particularly for those living further from the healthcare destination. Parking availability at healthcare facilities is another factor, often requiring time to locate a spot, adding to the overall commute time.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides public transportation services throughout Providence and the surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the 02909 ZIP code, offering a potentially accessible option for those without personal vehicles. Route 1 (Broad/Elmwood), Route 3 (Eddy/Hope), and Route 6 (Providence College/Cranston) are among the key routes providing access to healthcare facilities.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor in ensuring equitable access to healthcare for individuals with disabilities. RIPTA has made efforts to improve accessibility, but the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a significant limitation. Transfer times between routes can also add considerable time to the overall commute, particularly for those needing to travel to facilities located further away from major bus lines.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially reducing commute times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes or frequent healthcare needs.

Medical transportation services, such as transportation offered by healthcare providers or specialized medical transport companies, offer a more specialized service for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may be equipped to handle medical equipment or provide assistance to passengers. The availability of these services and their associated costs are critical considerations for assessing healthcare access.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Several medical transportation brands operate within the Providence area. These include:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Primarily focuses on emergency medical services but also provides non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Care Ride:** Specializes in non-emergency medical transportation, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations.
* **Medical Transportation Services (MTS):** Offers a range of transportation services, including ambulatory and wheelchair transport.
* **Providence Medical Transportation:** Local provider focused on non-emergency medical transport.

**Healthcare Access Evaluation:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for 02909 reflects the interplay of these factors. A high score indicates easy and efficient access to healthcare facilities, while a lower score reflects challenges in transportation and potential barriers to accessing care. The score considers the average commute times, the availability and reliability of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.

The density of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code also influences the score. Proximity to clinics, hospitals, and urgent care centers reduces commute times and improves access. However, the quality of care, the range of services offered, and the availability of specialists are also crucial considerations.

**Impact on Residents:**

The ease of access to healthcare significantly impacts residents' overall health and well-being. Timely access to medical care is critical for managing chronic conditions, preventing complications, and addressing acute illnesses. Transportation barriers can lead to delayed or missed appointments, resulting in poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

For those considering moving to Providence, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access within 02909 is essential. This information allows individuals to make informed decisions about their living situation, ensuring they can access the healthcare services they need. The availability of transportation options, the cost of these options, and the proximity of healthcare facilities are all crucial factors to consider.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 02909 is a complex measure, reflecting the interplay of various transportation factors and the availability of healthcare facilities. While the area benefits from highway access and RIPTA bus routes, traffic congestion, the frequency of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing can pose challenges. The presence of medical transportation services offers additional support, especially for individuals with mobility limitations. A comprehensive assessment of these factors is crucial for understanding the overall accessibility of healthcare in this Providence ZIP code, particularly for those evaluating a potential move.