01757, Milford, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 01757, Milford, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.25 percent of residents in 01757 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milford Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.07 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 01757 (Milford, MA)**

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Milford, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01757), this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up assesses the “Hypertension Score,” a proxy for overall healthcare accessibility, by analyzing the commute to medical facilities specializing in hypertension management, considering driving times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents and those **moving to Milford**, particularly those with or at risk of hypertension, to understand the ease with which they can reach crucial medical care.

The primary focus will be on facilities within a reasonable radius of Milford, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. The “Hypertension Score” will be a qualitative assessment based on the ease and efficiency of reaching these facilities, factoring in the various transportation modalities available.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Milford. The town’s location, approximately 30 miles southwest of Boston, necessitates reliance on major roadways. Interstate 495 (I-495), a key regional artery, provides the most direct route to healthcare facilities in surrounding towns. For example, driving to UMass Memorial Health – Milford Regional Medical Center, located within Milford itself, is typically a short commute, often under 10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

However, accessing specialized care outside of Milford, such as cardiology clinics in Worcester or Boston, requires navigating I-495 and potentially the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90). These trips can be significantly longer, especially during peak hours. Traffic congestion on I-495 is a frequent occurrence, and the drive to Boston, even without heavy traffic, can take upwards of an hour.

Smaller roads, such as Route 109, Route 16, and Route 85, serve as alternative routes but are often slower and more susceptible to delays. Residents must carefully consider traffic patterns when scheduling appointments, particularly for those with time-sensitive health needs, such as managing hypertension. The efficiency of **transportation** directly impacts the ability to adhere to medication schedules and follow-up appointments, critical components of hypertension management.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Milford are limited, which presents a challenge for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides commuter rail service via the Franklin Line, with a station located in Milford. This line offers a direct route to Boston's South Station, where connections to various healthcare facilities are available.

However, the commuter rail schedule may not align with all appointment times, and the journey to Boston can take over an hour. Furthermore, access to the Milford station itself may require a local bus or a walk for those residing further away. The MBTA does offer some ADA-accessible features on its commuter rail lines, but the availability of accessible stations and elevators should be confirmed prior to travel.

The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) also provides some bus service in the area, but routes and schedules are limited, and they may not directly serve many healthcare facilities outside of Milford. Public **transportation** limitations can create barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with lower incomes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Milford, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Availability can also fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by private companies, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking. Some insurance plans cover medical transport, but this coverage varies.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Provides ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation services.
* **Care Ride:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **MedExpress:** Specializes in non-emergency medical transportation.

**Healthcare Access and Hypertension Management:**

The ability to readily access healthcare is paramount for effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential. Delays or difficulties in reaching medical facilities can hinder these efforts, potentially leading to uncontrolled hypertension and increased risk of cardiovascular complications.

The **transportation** landscape in Milford, as described, presents both opportunities and challenges. While driving offers the most flexibility, traffic congestion and the distance to specialized facilities can pose difficulties. Public transit provides a viable but limited option, and ride-sharing services offer convenience at a cost. Medical transport services can fill the gaps, but their expense is a consideration.

**Moving to Milford:**

For individuals **moving to Milford** with hypertension or at risk of developing it, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Choosing a residence near the Milford Regional Medical Center or within easy access to the MBTA commuter rail station could enhance **healthcare access**. Planning appointment times strategically to avoid peak traffic and exploring all available **transportation** options are vital for successful hypertension management.

**Conclusion: The Hypertension Score**

Based on the assessment, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 01757 is moderately accessible. While the Milford Regional Medical Center offers local care, access to specialized facilities outside of town can be challenging due to reliance on roadways, limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport. Residents must carefully plan their **transportation** strategies to ensure timely and consistent access to the medical care needed to manage their hypertension effectively. The score highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** in Milford, particularly by expanding public transit options and promoting affordable medical transport solutions.