01568, Upton, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 01568, Upton, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.58 percent of residents in 01568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent Hospital with a distance of 11.97 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 01568**

The quiet, residential community of Upton, Massachusetts, nestled in ZIP code 01568, offers a charming New England lifestyle. However, prospective residents, particularly those managing hypertension, must consider the critical element of healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score," evaluating the ease of transportation to medical facilities, impacting the ability to manage this chronic condition. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Upton.

The primary challenge in Upton is its relative isolation. While the town offers a serene environment, healthcare resources are primarily located outside its borders. This necessitates careful consideration of transportation options, especially for individuals with hypertension, who require regular medical appointments and potential emergency care. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the ease and reliability of accessing these vital services.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The most common mode of transportation in Upton is personal vehicles. The primary roadways serving the area are Route 140, Route 16, and Interstate 495. Route 140 provides north-south access, while Route 16 runs east-west. Interstate 495, a major regional artery, offers access to more distant healthcare facilities.

Drive times to healthcare providers vary significantly depending on location and time of day. For example, Milford Regional Medical Center, a crucial healthcare hub, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 16 and Route 109. UMass Memorial Health – Marlborough Hospital, another key facility, is roughly a 25-35 minute drive, typically involving Interstate 495. Worcester, with its concentration of hospitals and specialists, requires a 30-45 minute drive, often involving Interstate 495 and Route 290.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Morning and evening commutes can add considerable delays, potentially exacerbating stress and impacting the timely arrival for medical appointments. Individuals with hypertension must factor in these potential delays when planning their healthcare transportation.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Upton is limited. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. The primary WRTA route serving Upton is Route 17, which connects to Milford and Worcester. However, the frequency of Route 17 is limited, with buses running primarily during peak hours.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor for individuals with mobility limitations. WRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many Upton residents, particularly those with hypertension who may require frequent medical visits. The reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation becomes more pronounced.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Upton, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing costs can also fluctuate, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and CareRide, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be costly and may require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Upton, 01568, reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to key healthcare facilities, considering traffic congestion.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, route coverage, and accessibility of WRTA services.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The accessibility of pharmacies for medication refills.
* **Availability of Urgent Care Facilities:** The presence of urgent care options for immediate medical needs.

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Upton would likely be moderate. While Milford Regional Medical Center is relatively accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but at a potentially higher cost.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Upton, several recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or your reliance on alternative transportation.
* **Plan for Traffic Delays:** Factor in potential traffic congestion when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:** Research the availability and cost of these services.
* **Consider Proximity to Pharmacies:** Ensure easy access to pharmacies for medication refills.
* **Establish a Healthcare Network:** Identify primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency care facilities.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Upton offers a desirable lifestyle, but healthcare access requires careful planning, especially for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of considering transportation options, drive times, and the availability of alternative services. By proactively addressing these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure their ability to maintain their health and well-being in this charming New England town. The ease of transportation directly impacts the ability to manage hypertension effectively, making this assessment a vital step in the decision-making process.