01921, Boxford, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01921, Boxford, Massachusetts is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.94 percent of residents in 01921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lawrence General Hospital with a distance of 6.44 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Boxford, MA (ZIP Code 01921)**

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands meticulous research. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates the accessibility of breast cancer care from Boxford, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01921). We will explore various transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to determine the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments and treatments. This score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape, offering insights for individuals and families considering a move to Boxford.

Boxford, a charming town nestled in Essex County, presents a unique challenge. Its semi-rural character, while appealing, can impact healthcare access. The absence of a major medical center within the town necessitates travel to neighboring communities for specialized care. This analysis considers the critical factor of *transportation* in determining the feasibility of accessing timely and appropriate breast cancer care.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times**

The primary mode of *transportation* for residents of Boxford is the private vehicle. The most direct route to major medical facilities involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. For instance, the drive to Beverly Hospital, a key provider of breast cancer services, typically involves traveling south on Route 133, a scenic but sometimes congested road. This route connects to Route 128, a major circumferential highway that provides access to various medical centers. The drive time to Beverly Hospital, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 20-30 minutes.

Alternatively, residents can head east on Route 133 to reach the Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Danvers. This journey, also involving Route 128, usually takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic flow. For those seeking care at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston, the commute becomes considerably longer. The drive involves navigating Route 95 South and then utilizing the Central Artery (I-93), a route that can be heavily congested, particularly during peak hours. This trip can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.

These drive times highlight the importance of traffic conditions. Residents of Boxford must factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments, especially those requiring timely arrival. The availability of parking at these facilities is another crucial consideration, as parking fees can add to the overall cost of care. The *healthcare access* in Boxford is highly dependent on reliable personal *transportation*.

**Public Transit Options**

Public *transportation* options in Boxford are limited. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus service in the area, but the routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The primary bus route that could be relevant is the 451, which connects to the commuter rail lines. However, this bus route has limited service, and transfers to the commuter rail are often necessary.

The commuter rail, while a more reliable option, requires a drive to a station outside of Boxford. The closest commuter rail stations are in neighboring towns like Rowley or Georgetown. From these stations, commuters can take the train to Boston, with connections to medical facilities. The commuter rail is generally accessible, with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, including ramps and elevators at most stations. However, the total commute time, including travel to the station, train travel, and any necessary transfers, can be significant.

The lack of robust public *transportation* underscores the reliance on private vehicles for *healthcare access* in Boxford. Individuals without access to a car face significant challenges in reaching medical appointments. This is a critical factor for anyone *moving to Boxford* who relies on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative *transportation* option. These services are available in Boxford, but their availability and cost can vary. During peak hours or in times of high demand, ride-sharing fares can be significantly higher, potentially creating a financial burden for those seeking medical care. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as wait times can be unpredictable.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients, provide another option. Companies like LogistiCare and Veyo offer non-emergency medical *transportation*. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. They provide door-to-door service, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these services in Boxford and the associated costs should be carefully investigated.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Boxford considers several factors. First, the distance and drive times to major medical facilities specializing in breast cancer care are evaluated. Second, the availability and reliability of public *transportation*, including bus and commuter rail options, are assessed. Third, the accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* are examined.

The score also considers the impact of traffic congestion, parking availability, and the overall cost of *transportation*. The limited public *transportation* options and the reliance on private vehicles contribute to a lower score. While ride-sharing services offer a potential alternative, their cost and availability can be a barrier. Medical *transportation* services provide a valuable option, but their availability and eligibility requirements must be considered.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For individuals considering *moving to Boxford* and concerned about *healthcare access*, particularly breast cancer care, a thorough assessment of *transportation* options is crucial. The reliance on private vehicles and the limited public *transportation* options present challenges. The drive times to medical facilities, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services are important factors to investigate. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a car should carefully research the available options. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Boxford, based on this analysis, reflects the need for proactive planning and consideration of *transportation* logistics to ensure timely and accessible medical care. This information is vital for making informed decisions about *healthcare access* when considering *moving to Boxford*.