02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.43 percent of residents in 02359 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital with a distance of 9.76 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pembroke, MA (ZIP Code 02359)

Pembroke, Massachusetts, a charming New England town, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the wider Boston metropolitan area. For individuals considering a move to Pembroke, particularly those managing arthritis, a crucial consideration is healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 02359, examining drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, all essential factors impacting healthcare accessibility.

The ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably significantly impacts the quality of life for those living with arthritis. The ease of transportation directly influences adherence to treatment plans, including physical therapy, medication management, and specialist consultations. This analysis considers the practical realities of getting to and from healthcare facilities, providing a comprehensive overview for potential residents.

**Driving Dynamics: Navigating the Roads**

Pembroke's primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Route 139, Route 14, and Route 3. Route 139, a local thoroughfare, provides access to various services within the town and connects to neighboring communities. Route 14, running east-west, offers a direct route to the coast and other towns, while Route 3, a major highway, is the gateway to Boston and the South Shore.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas can vary significantly depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. During peak hours, the commute to Boston hospitals, such as Massachusetts General Hospital or Brigham and Women's Hospital, via Route 3, can easily exceed an hour. However, outside of rush hour, the journey can be completed in under 45 minutes.

For more local healthcare needs, South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, a well-regarded facility, is approximately a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic on Route 3 and Route 18. Urgent care facilities, such as those operated by Beth Israel Deaconess, are also accessible within a 20-30 minute drive. These shorter trips are crucial for managing arthritis flares and urgent medical needs.

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

Public transportation options in Pembroke are limited, but present. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus service in the area, though the routes are not extensive. The 230 bus route, for instance, connects Pembroke to the Greenbush Commuter Rail line in Scituate, offering a connection to Boston's South Station.

While this provides a potential link to more comprehensive healthcare services in Boston, the commute involves a combination of bus and train travel, which can be time-consuming. The 230 bus does offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, making it a viable option for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the frequency of the bus service may not always align with medical appointment schedules.

The Greenbush Commuter Rail line itself is also ADA-accessible, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate the transit system with relative ease. However, the distance from Pembroke to the train station, coupled with the need to coordinate bus and train schedules, can create logistical challenges.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pembroke, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals who are unable to drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often equipped with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be a lifeline for individuals with arthritis who require assistance with mobility.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can be a significant factor. While ride-sharing services are generally more affordable than medical transportation, they may not always be the most reliable option, particularly for scheduled medical appointments. Medical transportation services, while often more expensive, offer greater reliability and specialized support.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

Healthcare access in Pembroke extends beyond transportation. The town has a number of primary care physicians and specialists, providing local healthcare options. However, for specialized care, such as rheumatology, individuals may need to travel to larger hospitals in the Boston area or the South Shore.

The availability of telehealth services is also a growing factor in healthcare access. Many healthcare providers offer virtual appointments, allowing patients to consult with their doctors from the comfort of their homes. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Moving to Pembroke: A Transportation-Focused Assessment**

For individuals considering moving to Pembroke, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the limited public transportation options and reliance on driving or ride-sharing services can pose challenges for those with arthritis.

The proximity to major highways, such as Route 3, provides access to a wider range of healthcare facilities. However, the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, should be carefully considered. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers valuable alternatives, but the associated costs and reliability should be factored into the decision-making process.

Ultimately, the "Arthritis Score" for Pembroke, MA, is a nuanced one. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, its transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges for those managing arthritis. A proactive approach, involving careful planning, consideration of transportation alternatives, and exploration of telehealth options, is crucial for ensuring convenient and reliable access to healthcare.