02767, Raynham, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02767, Raynham, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.77 percent of residents in 02767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 3.23 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Raynham, MA (ZIP Code 02767)

Considering a move to Raynham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02767) and concerned about healthcare access, especially for those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease? This analysis provides a detailed "Alzheimer's Score" based on transportation options to medical facilities. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this suburban community. The score aims to assist in informed decision-making, prioritizing the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments.

Raynham's location, approximately 30 miles south of Boston, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban resources. However, this balance impacts transportation options. The primary challenge lies in the dependence on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit, potentially creating obstacles for those with Alzheimer's. Our assessment considers this, evaluating the ease and safety of reaching essential healthcare services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Raynham is the automobile. Understanding drive times is paramount. For residents, the primary arteries are Route 44, Route 138, and Interstate 495. Reaching Morton Hospital in Taunton, a major regional healthcare provider, typically involves a drive along Route 44 East. During off-peak hours, this journey averages 15-20 minutes. However, rush hour can significantly extend this, potentially doubling the travel time, especially on weekday mornings and evenings.

For specialized care, Boston-based hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital or Brigham and Women's Hospital become relevant. This journey involves navigating Interstate 495 North to Interstate 93 North, then onto the city streets. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, contingent on traffic. This longer duration necessitates careful planning, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety or disorientation during extended travel.

Route 138 provides another access point, leading south towards various medical offices and urgent care facilities. Traffic flow on this route is generally less congested than Route 44 or I-495, but the road is narrower and can be challenging during inclement weather. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation and the potential need for caregiver support.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation in Raynham offers a limited but potentially valuable alternative. The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA) provides bus services. The primary route of relevance is the Route 12, which connects Taunton and Brockton, passing through Raynham. This route offers limited frequency, with buses typically running hourly during peak times and less frequently on weekends.

The Route 12, while offering a link to healthcare facilities, presents challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The infrequent schedule requires careful planning, and the potential for delays can be stressful. Furthermore, the route’s stops might not be directly adjacent to medical offices, necessitating additional walking, which could pose a risk for those with mobility issues or cognitive impairments.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. GATRA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the overall accessibility of the system depends on the availability of accessible bus stops and the ability of passengers to navigate the boarding and alighting process.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in Raynham, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost can be a factor, and the need to navigate the app and communicate with drivers could be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's. Caregivers or family members may need to assist in booking and managing these rides.

Medical transport services cater specifically to the needs of individuals with medical conditions. Several providers operate in the Raynham area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles, and can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

Raynham residents have access to several healthcare options. Morton Hospital in Taunton is the closest major facility, offering a range of medical services. Urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices are also available within Raynham and neighboring towns. For specialized care, residents often travel to Boston-based hospitals.

The availability of geriatric specialists, neurologists, and memory care clinics is crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's. Assessing the proximity and accessibility of these specialists is a key component of the Alzheimer's Score. In Raynham, access to these specialists may require travel to Taunton or Boston, highlighting the importance of reliable transportation options.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Synthesis**

The Alzheimer's Score for Raynham (ZIP Code 02767) reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles presents both advantages and disadvantages. Drive times to local healthcare facilities are generally manageable, but longer trips to Boston-based specialists can be challenging. Public transit offers a limited alternative, while ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, though with varying degrees of cost and complexity.

The score emphasizes the need for careful planning, caregiver support, and proactive consideration of transportation needs. The limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays necessitate a thorough assessment of individual capabilities and resources. Residents with Alzheimer's or their caregivers should proactively research and secure reliable transportation options, including identifying medical transport providers and familiarizing themselves with ride-sharing services.

**Recommendations for Moving to Raynham**

For those considering a move to Raynham with a family member affected by Alzheimer's, the following recommendations are vital:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate the individual's ability to travel independently and determine the need for caregiver support or professional transportation services.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify geriatric specialists, neurologists, and memory care clinics in the area and assess the accessibility of their offices.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Familiarize yourself with GATRA bus routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments in advance and factor in travel time, potential delays, and the need for caregiver assistance.
* **Build a Support Network:** Establish a network of family members, friends, or community resources to provide transportation assistance and support.

Moving to Raynham can be a positive experience, but careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access are essential for individuals with Alzheimer's. By understanding the available options and addressing potential challenges, residents can ensure access to the care they need and maintain their quality of life in this suburban community.