02035, Foxboro, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02035, Foxboro, Massachusetts is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.29 percent of residents in 02035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sturdy Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.09 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Foxboro (02035)

The crisp air of Foxboro, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02035), often beckons those seeking a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of a new home necessitates a rigorous evaluation of **healthcare access**. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the realities of **transportation** options available to residents of 02035, specifically concerning their ability to reach essential medical appointments and emergency care, thereby informing those **moving to Foxboro**.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the understanding that asthma management demands consistent and timely access to healthcare professionals. This includes routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and the potential need for urgent medical intervention. The efficiency and reliability of **transportation** options directly impact the quality of life for asthmatics, making it a critical factor in evaluating the suitability of a location.

**Driving Directions: A Road Map to Care**

For many, the private automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation**. In Foxboro, the major thoroughfares dictate the landscape of healthcare access. The primary artery is Interstate 95 (I-95), providing a direct route north and south. Heading north, a drive to Boston Children's Hospital, a leading pediatric respiratory care facility, typically takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating the often-congested I-95 corridor, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Traveling south on I-95 offers access to hospitals in the Providence, Rhode Island area. Rhode Island Hospital, a comprehensive medical center, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive. This route, while generally less congested than the Boston commute, can still experience delays, especially during inclement weather.

Locally, Route 1, a major commercial thoroughfare, provides access to urgent care facilities and some primary care physicians. The drive to these local options is typically less than 15 minutes, offering a convenient alternative for non-emergency situations. However, Route 1 can be heavily trafficked, particularly during events at Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, potentially impacting travel times.

The accessibility of these routes, coupled with the unpredictable nature of traffic, forms the foundation of the driving-related component of the Asthma Score.

**Public Transit: A Breath of Fresh Air (or Not)**

For those who prefer or require public **transportation**, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) offers limited options in Foxboro. The Franklin Line commuter rail provides service to Boston's South Station. The Foxboro Station is located near Gillette Stadium and offers a relatively straightforward, albeit infrequent, connection to the city. The train ride itself is approximately 45-60 minutes.

However, the frequency of trains, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a significant challenge for those with asthma. The limited schedule may necessitate extended wait times, potentially exacerbating symptoms or delaying access to medical care. Additionally, the commuter rail does not directly serve all hospitals or medical facilities, requiring transfers to the MBTA subway system or other **transportation** options.

The MBTA prioritizes ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility. All commuter rail stations are equipped with ramps or elevators, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the potential for overcrowding, especially during peak hours, and the inherent challenges of navigating a large public **transportation** system can be stressful for asthmatics.

The reliability of the commuter rail, the frequency of service, and the need for transfers all contribute to the public **transportation** component of the Asthma Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Healthcare Access**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Foxboro, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public **transportation**. These services provide on-demand access to medical facilities, eliminating the need to rely on fixed schedules or navigate traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option than ride-sharing. However, availability and scheduling can be a constraint, requiring advance booking.

The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services are key elements in the Asthma Score.

**Healthcare Access: The Final Score**

The Asthma Score for Foxboro (02035) is a complex calculation, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each **transportation** option. The convenience of driving is offset by the potential for traffic delays. The public **transportation** system offers a viable alternative, but its limitations in frequency and routing must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** provide on-demand access but come with associated costs and scheduling requirements.

The presence of local urgent care facilities and primary care physicians within a short drive enhances the overall score. The proximity to major hospitals in Boston and Providence, while requiring longer travel times, provides access to specialized respiratory care.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for 02035 reflects a mixed bag. While the location offers a degree of **healthcare access**, residents with asthma must carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when evaluating the available **transportation** options. Those **moving to Foxboro** should prioritize researching healthcare providers, assessing travel times during peak hours, and exploring the availability of medical **transportation** services to ensure a seamless transition and continued access to quality medical care. This careful planning is crucial for managing asthma effectively and maintaining a high quality of life in this suburban community.