01834, Groveland, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 01834, Groveland, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.20 percent of residents in 01834 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lawrence General Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Groveland (ZIP Code 01834)

Groveland, Massachusetts, a town nestled in the Merrimack Valley, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services within and around ZIP code 01834, focusing on transportation options and their impact on individuals with hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital medical care, considering the challenges posed by this chronic condition. This is especially pertinent for anyone moving to Groveland.

The core of our assessment revolves around the concept of "healthcare access," which encompasses not just the availability of medical providers but also the practicality of reaching them. For individuals with hypertension, timely access to medication refills, regular check-ups, and potential emergency care is critical. Delays or difficulties in transportation can significantly compromise their health outcomes.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Groveland are Route 113 and Route 97. Route 113, a key east-west thoroughfare, connects Groveland to neighboring towns like Haverhill and Georgetown, offering access to a range of medical facilities. Route 97, running north-south, provides access to towns like Boxford and West Newbury. Driving times, however, can be variable. During peak hours, traffic congestion on both routes, particularly near intersections and in the vicinity of shopping centers, can extend travel times.

For example, a drive to the nearest major hospital, Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions via Route 113 and Interstate 95. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, significantly impacting the ability of a hypertensive patient to quickly access medical care if needed. The drive to Lawrence General Hospital, another prominent healthcare provider, is roughly 30-40 minutes via Route 97 and Interstate 495, also subject to similar traffic fluctuations.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Groveland are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Merrimack Valley Regional TransitMerrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) provides bus service to the area, but the routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals with hypertension. Route 14, for instance, offers service through Groveland, connecting to Haverhill and other regional hubs.

However, frequency is a crucial factor. Bus schedules often have limited service, particularly on weekends and evenings, which can make it difficult to attend appointments or access urgent care. Furthermore, the availability of accessible buses with features like ramps and lifts for individuals with mobility limitations, including those who may experience complications from hypertension, is essential. While MVRTA strives to meet ADA requirements, service frequency and route coverage remain areas for improvement.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Groveland, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their reliability and cost can vary. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make ride-sharing an expensive option, especially for frequent medical appointments. For individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources, this can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized solution. Companies like Logisticare and other private medical transport providers operate in the region. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and baggage. While this can be a valuable resource for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive, availability and coverage areas should be verified.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Providers:**

Groveland itself has limited healthcare facilities. Residents typically rely on providers located in neighboring towns. Accessing these facilities necessitates understanding the transportation options available and their associated challenges. The availability of primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and emergency services within a reasonable travel distance is paramount for managing hypertension effectively.

The presence of local pharmacies is a crucial element of healthcare access. The ability to quickly and conveniently refill prescriptions is essential for managing hypertension. The proximity of pharmacies to transportation hubs or the availability of home delivery services can significantly improve medication adherence.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for accessing healthcare in Groveland (01834) would be moderate. While the town offers access to various transportation options, including roadways, public transit, and ride-sharing, significant limitations exist. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit frequency, the variable cost of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic delays all contribute to the challenges faced by individuals with hypertension.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To enhance healthcare access for residents with hypertension in Groveland, several improvements are recommended. Prioritizing increased public transit frequency and route coverage, particularly during evenings and weekends, would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve accessibility. Promoting and expanding medical transportation services, including education on their availability and eligibility, would also be a positive step.

Additionally, supporting the development of telehealth services and remote patient monitoring programs could help mitigate the impact of transportation challenges. These technologies allow patients to receive care and manage their condition from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare access in Groveland requires a thoughtful understanding of the transportation landscape. While the town offers some options, challenges remain, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. By addressing these challenges through targeted improvements in transportation infrastructure, public transit, and support services, Groveland can strive to ensure that all residents have timely and convenient access to the healthcare they need, fostering healthier lives and a stronger community. The decision to consider moving to Groveland should include a careful evaluation of these factors, ensuring that the chosen location supports the individual's healthcare needs.