02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.32 percent of residents in 02119 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Boston Medical Center with a distance of 1.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02119

The quest for optimal healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma, is a multifaceted challenge. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 02119 (Roxbury, Massachusetts), delves into the intricacies of transportation options and their impact on healthcare accessibility, ultimately contributing to an "Asthma Score" reflective of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Roxbury or seeking improved healthcare access within the community.

The cornerstone of assessing healthcare access lies in understanding the practicalities of getting to appointments. For residents of 02119, the primary arteries for vehicular transportation are the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), the Southeast Expressway (I-93), and various local roads like Melnea Cass Boulevard, Blue Hill Avenue, and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. During peak hours, navigating these routes can become a frustrating exercise in stop-and-go traffic, significantly impacting travel times and, consequently, the Asthma Score.

Drive times to major healthcare facilities, such as Boston Medical Center (BMC) and Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), are crucial considerations. From central Roxbury, a trip to BMC, a major provider of asthma care, might take 10-20 minutes under ideal conditions, utilizing Melnea Cass Boulevard or Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, exacerbating the stress and potential for exacerbations in asthma patients. Reaching BWH, often requiring a journey via I-90 or local streets, can take 20-30 minutes, again susceptible to significant delays.

Public transportation offers a vital alternative, especially for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility challenges. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides several bus routes that crisscross 02119, connecting residents to major hospitals and medical centers. The number 28 bus, running along Blue Hill Avenue, offers frequent service and direct access to BMC. The number 23 bus, traveling along Washington Street, also provides a convenient link.

The MBTA's Orange Line subway, with stations like Jackson Square and Roxbury Crossing, offers a faster, albeit sometimes crowded, option. The Orange Line provides access to downtown Boston and connections to other transit lines, including the Green Line, which can be used to reach hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). The accessibility of MBTA stations is a critical factor in the Asthma Score. While many stations are undergoing accessibility improvements, ensuring that elevators and ramps are functioning and well-maintained is paramount for individuals with mobility limitations, which can be a significant issue for those with severe asthma.

ADA compliance in the MBTA system is a constant area of focus, with ongoing efforts to improve accessibility features. However, the reliability of elevators and escalators, particularly in older stations, can be a source of frustration and potential delays. These delays can be particularly problematic for asthma patients who require punctual arrival for appointments or face the risk of exacerbations due to stress and exposure to environmental triggers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially bypassing the complexities of public transit or the stress of driving. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited coverage, also impacts the Asthma Score.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs, including those with mobility limitations or those requiring stretcher transport. Companies like MedStar and Careport provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering a crucial service for those unable to utilize other modes of transportation. The availability, cost, and reliability of these services are critical components of the overall Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score also considers the proximity of pharmacies and urgent care facilities. Access to pharmacies for medication refills and urgent care centers for immediate treatment of asthma exacerbations is essential. The presence of these facilities within a reasonable distance, accessible by various transportation methods, significantly improves the Asthma Score.

Furthermore, the walkability of the neighborhood plays a role. For those able to walk, the proximity of healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and bus stops can greatly enhance access. The presence of sidewalks, crosswalks, and well-maintained streets is vital for pedestrian safety and convenience.

The environmental factors within 02119 also influence the Asthma Score. Air quality, particularly during peak pollution periods, is a significant concern for asthma sufferers. Proximity to green spaces, such as Franklin Park, can provide respite from air pollution and offer opportunities for outdoor activity.

Moving to Roxbury, for someone with asthma, requires a careful assessment of all these factors. The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic evaluation reflecting the interplay of transportation options, healthcare facility locations, environmental factors, and individual needs. It serves as a valuable tool for residents and potential newcomers, guiding them towards informed decisions regarding healthcare access and quality of life. The goal is to create a community where individuals with asthma can easily access the care they need, minimizing the challenges associated with transportation and maximizing their well-being.