The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02043, Hingham, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
41.33 percent of residents in 02043 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Shore Hospital with a distance of 4.02 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 02043, Hingham, Massachusetts
Alzheimers Score | 78 |
---|---|
People Score | 59 |
Provider Score | 63 |
Hospital Score | 49 |
Travel Score | 64 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 02043 | Hingham | Massachusetts |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.71 | 0.71 | 5.90 |
1 Car | 12.51 | 12.51 | 23.77 |
2 Cars | 55.01 | 55.01 | 41.47 |
3 or More Cars | 31.77 | 31.77 | 28.86 |
Vehicular Access in 02043, Hingham, Massachusetts
**Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02043 (Hingham, MA)**
Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing cognitive decline, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis, focusing on Hingham, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02043), assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering the specific needs of those affected by Alzheimer's disease. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" to aid informed decision-making, particularly for those considering moving to Hingham.
Hingham, a picturesque coastal town, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. While offering a desirable quality of life, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of healthcare accessibility. The "Alzheimer's Score" aims to quantify these challenges, providing a framework for evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services.
**Drive Times and Roadways**
The primary arteries serving Hingham are Route 3A, a scenic coastal road, and Route 228, which provides a more direct inland connection. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and Route 3 offer access to Boston and other regional healthcare hubs, though these require navigating potentially congested roadways. Drive times, therefore, are highly variable, depending on traffic conditions and the time of day.
Accessing the closest hospitals, like South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 3A or Route 228, assuming moderate traffic. For specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric medicine, a trip to Boston hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital or Brigham and Women's Hospital may be necessary. This journey, via Route 3 and I-93, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour during peak commuting hours.
The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the inherent uncertainty of these drive times. The impact of traffic on individuals with cognitive impairments can be significant, potentially leading to increased anxiety and disorientation. Reliable, predictable transportation is paramount.
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides public transportation options, but their usefulness for individuals with Alzheimer's is limited. The Greenbush Commuter Rail line serves Hingham, offering a direct route to South Station in Boston. However, the walk to the station and the potential for navigating crowded platforms can be overwhelming.
The MBTA also operates bus routes, including the 220, which runs through Hingham, providing connections to other towns and transit hubs. These buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating, but the frequency of service may not be ideal for medical appointments. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider the accessibility of the Greenbush line and bus routes, including the frequency of service and the ease of navigating the stations.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Hingham. However, the reliability and cost of these services can vary. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider the availability of these services, their average cost, and their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments.
Medical transport services, such as medical transport and non-emergency medical transportation, are specifically designed to assist individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and assistance with mobility. The "Alzheimer's Score" will include an assessment of the availability, cost, and quality of medical transport services in the area.
**Healthcare Access and the "Alzheimer's Score"**
The "Alzheimer's Score" will be based on several factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, the availability of specialized care, and the ease of navigating the transportation system. The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating greater accessibility.
The score will also consider the availability of support services for individuals with Alzheimer's, such as memory care facilities, home healthcare agencies, and caregiver support groups. These services are crucial for maintaining quality of life and providing assistance to those affected by the disease.
For those considering moving to Hingham, the "Alzheimer's Score" will provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. It will help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the support they require.
**Specific Considerations**
The "Alzheimer's Score" will also address specific challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's, such as the need for consistent and predictable transportation. The score will evaluate the availability of transportation services that can accommodate individuals with cognitive impairments, including those with memory loss, disorientation, and difficulty with communication.
The score will also consider the importance of caregiver support. The availability of respite care, home healthcare, and support groups for caregivers is critical for maintaining the well-being of both the individual with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.
**Conclusion**
This analysis provides a framework for assessing healthcare accessibility in Hingham, MA (ZIP code 02043) for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The "Alzheimer's Score" will serve as a valuable tool for those considering moving to Hingham, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensuring they have access to the support they require. The score will reflect the complexities of transportation, the availability of specialized care, and the importance of caregiver support, ultimately contributing to a more informed and compassionate approach to healthcare access for those living with Alzheimer's.
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