01835, Haverhill, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01835, Haverhill, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.45 percent of residents in 01835 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Family Hospital with a distance of 4.87 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Haverhill (ZIP Code 01835)

Imagine you're considering a move to Haverhill, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01835), and breast cancer is a concern. Understanding your **healthcare access** is paramount, and that extends beyond the quality of medical professionals. It includes the practicalities of **transportation**, the journey from your doorstep to potentially life-saving care. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate those crucial pathways, giving you a clearer picture of what it means to commute to healthcare in this city.

The landscape of **transportation** in Haverhill is a tapestry woven with personal vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing options. Your ability to navigate this network significantly impacts your access to mammograms, consultations, and treatment. The goal is to assess the ease and efficiency of getting to critical breast cancer services, ultimately informing your decision-making process.

One of the primary considerations is driving. Haverhill is strategically positioned, offering access to major roadways. The most direct route to many healthcare facilities involves navigating Interstate 495 (I-495). This highway provides a relatively swift passage, but traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours, can significantly extend travel times. The morning and evening rushes can transform a 15-minute drive into a frustrating 45-minute ordeal.

Several local roads feed into I-495, including Route 125, which traverses the heart of Haverhill. Route 102 and Route 110 also offer access points, but these roads are often more congested, with stop-and-go traffic. The time of day, day of the week, and even weather conditions can drastically alter these drive times. Consider the potential impact of winter storms or unexpected road closures.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and Route 93 offer alternative routes to Boston-area hospitals, though these options involve a longer commute. The key is to identify the closest, most accessible facilities offering breast cancer services and then factor in the realities of driving conditions.

Public transit presents another facet of **healthcare access**. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) offers commuter rail service via the Haverhill Line. This line provides direct access to Boston, where numerous hospitals and specialized clinics are located. However, the commute is time-consuming, typically taking an hour or more to reach downtown Boston.

The MBTA also operates bus routes within Haverhill. Route 15 provides service to the downtown area, while other routes offer connections to surrounding towns. Unfortunately, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. This can pose challenges for patients needing regular appointments.

Crucially, the MBTA is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. However, relying on public transit, particularly if mobility is impaired, requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options. These services provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, bypassing the complexities of driving or public transit. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedRide or CareRide focus on providing door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. However, these services are often more expensive than ride-sharing and require advance booking.

The availability of these **transportation** options is a critical component of your "Breast Cancer Score." It's not just about the distance to the nearest hospital; it's about the practicality of getting there. Consider the frequency of appointments, the potential for side effects from treatment, and the overall impact on your quality of life.

When **moving to Haverhill**, research the specific healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services. Identify the hospitals and clinics within a reasonable driving distance, taking into account traffic patterns. Investigate the availability of public transit routes and their accessibility features. Explore the cost and reliability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment of your ability to access care. It’s about empowering you with information, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare and your **moving to Haverhill** journey. It's about recognizing that **healthcare access** is a multifaceted issue, encompassing not just medical expertise but also the ease and efficiency of getting to the care you need.