02053, Medway, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02053, Medway, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.23 percent of residents in 02053 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Westwood Pembroke Health Systems with a distance of 11.27 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Medway, MA (ZIP Code 02053)

Considering a move to Medway, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02053) and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone facing Alzheimer's disease? This "Alzheimer's Score" offers a detailed analysis of transportation options, crucial for maintaining independence and ensuring timely medical appointments. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture of how easily healthcare can be reached. This information is vital for families prioritizing care and considering the challenges of Alzheimer's and the need for reliable transportation.

Medway, a charming suburban town, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. Its proximity to Boston and other major healthcare hubs offers advantages, but navigating these options requires careful consideration. The ability to get to appointments, therapy, and support groups is paramount for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape within and around Medway, enabling informed decisions.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The most direct route to healthcare facilities often involves personal vehicles. From central Medway, Massachusetts Avenue (Route 109) serves as a primary artery, leading east towards major medical centers. Driving to Milford Regional Medical Center, a crucial healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive primarily utilizes Route 109 and local roads.

For specialized care, Boston-area hospitals are often necessary. Traveling to Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston, a renowned facility, involves a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic congestion. This route typically involves taking Route 109 to Interstate 95 (I-95) North, then transitioning to the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) East, and finally navigating city streets to reach the hospital. The drive can be particularly challenging during rush hour, requiring careful planning and consideration of the individual's cognitive abilities.

Another important healthcare destination is Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. The drive from Medway to Beth Israel also takes around 45-60 minutes, using a similar route to MGH, including Route 109, I-95 North, and the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) East. This route requires careful navigation and awareness of traffic conditions.

The driving times presented are estimates and can vary based on traffic, weather, and time of day. For individuals with Alzheimer's, long drives can be stressful and disorienting. Careful planning, including rest stops and pre-trip preparation, is essential.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, but it presents its own set of challenges. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides limited bus service in the area. The primary bus route serving Medway is the 50, which connects to the Franklin Commuter Rail station.

The 50 bus route provides a connection to the Franklin Commuter Rail, offering access to Boston. However, the bus frequency is limited, especially during off-peak hours and weekends. This can make scheduling appointments difficult and require significant waiting times.

The Franklin Commuter Rail provides access to Boston's South Station, where connections to the Red Line, Orange Line, and Green Line subway lines are available. From South Station, individuals can access various healthcare facilities, including MGH and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

The MBTA strives to provide ADA-accessible services. All MBTA buses and Commuter Rail trains are equipped with features such as ramps, lifts, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, navigating the MBTA system can be complex, requiring multiple transfers and a degree of cognitive ability.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the challenges of using public transportation include potential disorientation, difficulty navigating complex routes, and the need to manage schedules and transfers. Careful planning, the assistance of a caregiver, and familiarity with the system are crucial.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Medway, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Ride-sharing services can be a valuable option for short trips or when a caregiver is unavailable to drive.

Medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and trained drivers. Several medical transportation providers operate in the Medway area, including:

* **MedStar Transportation:** This service provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Transit:** This company offers a range of transportation services, including medical transportation, with a focus on accessibility.
* **CareWell Transportation:** This provider specializes in non-emergency medical transportation, catering to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

Medical transportation services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing a safe and reliable way to reach medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare providers in Medway and the surrounding areas is crucial. The town itself has primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. Milford Regional Medical Center offers a range of services, including cardiology, neurology, and geriatrics.

For specialized care, individuals may need to travel to Boston-area hospitals. The Massachusetts Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (MADRC) at MGH provides comprehensive care and research opportunities. The Alzheimer's Association also offers support groups and resources for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Overall Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access in Medway, MA (02053) is moderate. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and long distances to Boston-area hospitals pose challenges. Public transportation options are limited and require careful planning and assistance. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide viable alternatives, but availability and cost should be considered.

For individuals with Alzheimer's considering moving to Medway, careful consideration of transportation needs is essential. Prioritize proximity to healthcare providers and access to reliable transportation options. Assess the individual's ability to navigate transportation systems and the availability of caregiver support. Explore the availability of medical transportation services and the potential for utilizing ride-sharing services.

Moving to Medway offers a balance of suburban living and access to healthcare. However, proactive planning is critical to ensure that healthcare access remains manageable and that the individual's needs are met. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a foundation for making informed decisions and creating a supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.