02914, East Providence, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02914, East Providence, Rhode Island is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.11 percent of residents in 02914 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital with a distance of 1.61 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02914 (East Providence, RI)**

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of East Providence, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02914), requires a comprehensive look at healthcare access, particularly the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available. This analysis delves into commute times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone **moving to East Providence** and assessing their future well-being.

The geographical layout of East Providence, nestled along the Seekonk River, influences healthcare accessibility. While the city itself offers some medical facilities, residents often need to travel to Providence or other neighboring communities for specialized care. This reliance on external resources underscores the importance of efficient **transportation** networks.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of **transportation** for many residents. The proximity to major roadways, including Interstate 195 (I-195) and Route 1A (Warren Avenue), provides relatively quick access to Providence and other healthcare hubs. However, rush hour congestion, particularly on I-195, can significantly impact drive times.

For example, a drive from the Riverside area of East Providence to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a major medical center, typically takes 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours. During peak commuting times, this journey can easily stretch to 30-45 minutes or longer, depending on traffic volume. The roadways, including local streets like Pawtucket Avenue and Veterans Memorial Parkway, also contribute to the overall commute time.

Navigating to Women & Infants Hospital, also in Providence, involves similar travel times, often relying on I-195 and local roads. The drive to the East Side of Providence, where some specialty clinics are located, might involve using the Henderson Bridge, which can also experience traffic delays.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service within East Providence and connects to Providence and other areas. Several bus routes serve ZIP Code 02914, including routes 1, 3, 6, 17, 20, 32, and 60. Route 1, for instance, offers service along Warren Avenue, providing access to various points within East Providence and Providence. Route 60 connects to Providence and the East Side.

While RIPTA offers a valuable service, the frequency of buses and the potential for delays can affect healthcare access. Individuals relying on public transit must factor in travel time, which can often be longer than driving. RIPTA strives to provide accessible services, with many buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to meet the needs of riders with disabilities, adhering to ADA standards.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another **transportation** alternative, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to. These services can provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, offering a more flexible option than public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can further increase expenses.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other health needs. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and local providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services often require pre-booking and may be covered by insurance, making them a crucial option for those needing assistance.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within East Providence itself plays a role in the overall health score. The city has primary care physicians, urgent care centers, and some specialized medical services. However, residents often need to travel to Providence for specialized care, such as advanced cardiology, oncology, or surgical procedures.

The proximity of healthcare facilities to public **transportation** routes is a critical factor. Ideally, hospitals and clinics should be easily accessible by bus or other public transit options. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another consideration, particularly for those who drive.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 02914 is moderately positive. While residents have access to various **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, there are challenges. Rush hour traffic, the frequency of public transit routes, and the cost of ride-sharing can impact access to healthcare.

The availability of healthcare facilities within East Providence itself and the proximity to Providence's medical centers are positive factors. However, the need to travel for specialized care and the potential for **transportation** delays can negatively affect the overall score.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving the health score requires ongoing efforts to enhance **transportation** infrastructure and healthcare access. This includes:

* Investing in public transit improvements, such as increased bus frequency and expanded routes.
* Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized rides for healthcare appointments.
* Promoting the use of medical transport services for those with mobility limitations.
* Encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within East Providence, especially those offering specialized services.
* Improving traffic management on major roadways, such as I-195, to reduce commute times.

For individuals **moving to East Providence**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options and healthcare needs is essential. While the city offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, careful planning is necessary to ensure timely and efficient access to medical care. The ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** and healthcare infrastructure will further enhance the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 02914.