02332, Duxbury, Massachusetts Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 02332, Duxbury, Massachusetts is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.26 percent of residents in 02332 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 7.01 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Duxbury (ZIP Code 02332)

The picturesque coastal town of Duxbury, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02332), beckons with its charming New England character and tranquil beauty. However, for individuals grappling with arthritis, the idyllic image must be tempered with a practical consideration: **healthcare access**. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the realities of **transportation** options for residents of Duxbury, particularly those seeking medical care, and offers a nuanced perspective for anyone **moving to Duxbury** with arthritis.

Duxbury's location, nestled between the South Shore and the ocean, presents both advantages and challenges. While the town itself is relatively compact, the concentration of specialized medical services lies primarily outside its borders. This necessitates careful planning and an understanding of available **transportation** resources. The goal is to illuminate the ease or difficulty of accessing essential healthcare, thereby informing decisions about residency and lifestyle choices.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Duxbury is Route 3, a major highway connecting the South Shore to Boston and Cape Cod. Traveling south on Route 3 offers relatively straightforward access to hospitals and clinics in Plymouth and further south. The drive to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth, for example, is typically under 20 minutes, a manageable journey for most.

However, the commute north on Route 3 toward Boston can be significantly more challenging, especially during peak hours. Traffic congestion can dramatically increase drive times, potentially exacerbating the discomfort of arthritis sufferers. A trip to Boston for specialized rheumatology appointments, which could take 45 minutes on a good day, could easily stretch to over an hour or more, placing additional strain on the body.

Secondary roads, such as Route 14 and Route 139, offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and more winding. These roads can be particularly challenging for individuals with limited mobility or those who experience pain during prolonged sitting. The condition of these roads, with potential potholes and uneven surfaces, can also contribute to discomfort.

Public **transportation** options in Duxbury are limited. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) does not directly serve Duxbury with commuter rail or subway lines. The nearest commuter rail station is in Kingston, approximately a 10-15 minute drive from the center of Duxbury. From Kingston, the commuter rail provides access to Boston's South Station, opening up a wider range of medical facilities.

However, relying on the commuter rail presents its own set of hurdles. The journey from Duxbury to Boston via train involves multiple steps: driving to the Kingston station, parking, purchasing a ticket, waiting for the train, and then navigating the Boston subway system to reach the desired medical facility. This process can be physically demanding, especially for individuals with arthritis.

The MBTA does offer bus service in the surrounding areas, but the routes are not directly connected to Duxbury. The closest bus routes, primarily serving towns like Plymouth and Kingston, might offer some limited connectivity, but they are unlikely to be a practical solution for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, assessing the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is crucial. Ensuring the buses have ramps, lifts, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities is paramount.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Duxbury. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who are unable to drive themselves. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and distance traveled. For regular medical appointments, the expense can accumulate quickly.

The availability of medical **transportation** services is another crucial factor. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**, including Comfort Ride Medical Transportation, and FirstLight Home Care. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles. They are often equipped to handle wheelchairs and other mobility aids. The cost of these services can vary, and it is essential to investigate insurance coverage options.

For individuals with severe mobility limitations, the availability of home healthcare services is critical. Visiting nurses and physical therapists can provide in-home care, reducing the need for frequent travel. However, access to these services depends on insurance coverage and the availability of qualified providers in the area.

**Healthcare access** in Duxbury requires careful consideration. While the town offers a pleasant living environment, the reliance on private vehicles or potentially complex public **transportation** routes to reach medical facilities presents challenges for individuals with arthritis. The potential for traffic congestion, the limited public **transportation** options, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services must be factored into the decision-making process.

When **moving to Duxbury**, those living with arthritis should thoroughly research the proximity of their preferred healthcare providers, assess the feasibility of various **transportation** options, and explore the availability of home healthcare services. Proactive planning and a realistic assessment of **healthcare access** are essential for maintaining a good quality of life in this charming coastal community. The "Arthritis Score" is not a numerical grade, but a framework for a personalized evaluation, ensuring that the beauty of Duxbury is matched by the practicality of accessing vital medical care.