02050, Marshfield, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02050, Marshfield, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.06 percent of residents in 02050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 11.71 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Marshfield (ZIP Code 02050)

Marshfield, Massachusetts, a coastal town celebrated for its cranberry bogs and proximity to the Atlantic, offers a compelling lifestyle. For those considering a move, particularly individuals managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This “Asthma Score” write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options available within ZIP Code 02050, evaluating their impact on healthcare access and highlighting potential challenges for residents with respiratory sensitivities.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to reach medical facilities. In Marshfield, this translates primarily to access to the South Shore Hospital, located in nearby Weymouth, and various local physician practices. The dominant mode of transportation remains the personal vehicle.

Driving times, however, are subject to the vagaries of traffic. The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Marshfield is Route 139, a local road that can become congested during peak hours. Expect a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes to reach South Shore Hospital via Route 139, particularly during morning and evening commutes. Another option is Route 3A, which runs parallel to the coast and offers a scenic but often slower route.

For those heading north, Route 3, the major highway connecting the South Shore to Boston, provides a faster alternative. However, traffic on Route 3, especially near the Braintree split, can be notoriously heavy. A drive to South Shore Hospital via Route 3 and Route 18 would typically take around 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Public transportation, while present, presents a more complex picture. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus service to Marshfield, offering a potential alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. The primary bus route serving Marshfield is the 230, which connects the town to the Greenbush Commuter Rail station in Scituate.

The 230 bus route operates with a frequency that can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. Riders should carefully consult the MBTA schedule for specific departure times. While the 230 offers a connection to the commuter rail, the train itself doesn't directly serve South Shore Hospital. This means a transfer would be necessary, adding to the overall travel time and complexity, especially for someone experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Furthermore, the accessibility of the MBTA bus system for individuals with asthma needs careful consideration. While the MBTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility, the environment within a bus can still pose challenges. Air quality, especially during periods of high passenger volume, can be compromised, potentially triggering asthma symptoms.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand access to transportation, potentially offering a convenient solution for reaching medical appointments. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Marshfield can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. For individuals with limited incomes, the expense of ride-sharing could pose a barrier to healthcare access. The potential for exposure to allergens or irritants within a ride-sharing vehicle also warrants consideration for individuals with asthma.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel, potentially offering a more comfortable and safer experience for individuals with respiratory conditions. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation services can vary, and pre-booking is often required.

The environmental factors in Marshfield are generally favorable for individuals with asthma. The coastal location provides a relatively clean air environment, with less exposure to industrial pollutants compared to more urban areas. However, seasonal changes, such as pollen counts during the spring and fall, can trigger asthma symptoms.

Furthermore, the presence of mold and other allergens within homes can exacerbate respiratory conditions. Proper home maintenance, including regular cleaning and ventilation, is crucial for managing asthma symptoms in Marshfield. The proximity to the ocean also means that humidity is high, which can trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals.

When considering a move to Marshfield, prospective residents with asthma should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation could pose challenges.

Individuals should research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. They should also familiarize themselves with the MBTA bus schedules and the potential for delays and crowded conditions. The choice of housing should also be considered; those living closer to healthcare facilities will have better access.

A comprehensive understanding of these transportation options, combined with proactive strategies for managing asthma triggers, is essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access and a comfortable lifestyle in Marshfield. The town’s appeal, with its beautiful scenery and close-knit community, can be fully enjoyed by those who plan carefully.

The Asthma Score for healthcare access in Marshfield (02050) is therefore nuanced. While the town offers a relatively healthy environment and proximity to medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful planning and consideration, particularly for individuals with asthma. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their cost and availability must be factored in.