02170, Quincy, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02170, Quincy, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.71 percent of residents in 02170 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carney Hospital with a distance of 2.84 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 02170

The journey to managing hypertension in Quincy, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02170), is a complex one, woven with threads of transportation, healthcare access, and the daily realities of residents. This write-up aims to provide a "Hypertension Score," a multifaceted assessment of how easily individuals with hypertension can reach essential medical care within this specific area. It considers the nuances of commute times, the availability of public transit, the prevalence of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation options, all crucial elements in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare. For those considering moving to Quincy, this score offers a crucial lens through which to evaluate the practicalities of managing a chronic condition.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a single number but a composite picture, reflecting the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals managing hypertension in 02170. It's a practical guide, acknowledging that healthcare access is not merely about the presence of medical facilities but also about the ease with which they can be reached. This is especially critical for those with hypertension, who often require regular check-ups, medication refills, and potentially, more specialized care.

**Driving Times: A Road Map to Care**

The primary arteries of transportation in 02170 are the major highways, which form the backbone of the city's connectivity. Interstate 93 (I-93) is a critical route, offering relatively swift access to Boston and its vast array of medical institutions, including Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital. During off-peak hours, a drive to these facilities from central Quincy can take approximately 20-30 minutes. However, the morning and evening commutes on I-93 are notorious for their congestion. This can dramatically extend travel times, potentially doubling or even tripling the duration of the journey.

Route 3A, another significant roadway, provides an alternative route, particularly for those heading south. This route, while offering scenic views of the coastline, can also be subject to traffic, especially near the Quincy Center area. The availability of parking at medical facilities is also a factor. Hospitals and clinics often have dedicated parking garages, but these can fill up quickly, adding extra time and stress to the patient's experience.

For those residing in the more suburban areas of 02170, such as Wollaston or North Quincy, access to local medical practices and pharmacies is generally more convenient. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, might necessitate travel to Boston or other surrounding cities, increasing the reliance on transportation.

**Public Transit: A Network of Opportunities**

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) plays a crucial role in healthcare access, offering several public transit options. The Red Line subway is a lifeline, connecting Quincy to Boston and providing direct access to major medical centers. The Red Line has several stations within 02170, including Quincy Center, Wollaston, and North Quincy. The subway offers a relatively predictable travel time, typically taking around 20-30 minutes to reach downtown Boston.

The MBTA also operates bus routes that crisscross the city, providing a network of local transportation options. Several bus routes, such as the 210, 211, and 215, serve various parts of 02170, connecting residential areas to medical facilities, pharmacies, and the Red Line stations. The bus system is particularly important for those who may not have access to a car or who prefer to avoid the stress of driving.

It is important to note the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the MBTA system. All Red Line stations within 02170 are ADA compliant, offering elevators and ramps to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. Many bus routes also feature accessible vehicles. This is a critical consideration for those with hypertension who may have other health conditions that impact their mobility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in 02170, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related destinations. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also significantly increase the cost of a ride.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies like MedRide or CareLinx, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist with mobility and other needs. These services are particularly valuable for those who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their health condition. However, these services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, and may require prior booking.

**The Pharmacy Factor: Medication Access**

Access to pharmacies is a crucial component of healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. 02170 has several pharmacies, including major chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription refills, over-the-counter medications, and other health-related services. The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and medical facilities is a significant advantage for residents.

**Conclusion: A Score in Context**

The "Hypertension Score" for 02170 is nuanced. While the area benefits from the accessibility of the Red Line and a network of bus routes, the reliance on I-93 and Route 3A for access to Boston's major medical centers can be a significant challenge, particularly during peak hours. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but cost and availability can be limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Quincy, the "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their individual needs and circumstances. Proximity to public transit, the availability of local medical practices, and the potential for using ride-sharing or medical transportation services should all be considered. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is critical for managing hypertension and maintaining overall health. The score reflects a community that is striving to improve healthcare access through a multifaceted transportation network.