02180, Stoneham, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02180, Stoneham, Massachusetts is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.96 percent of residents in 02180 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Winchester Hospital with a distance of 1.72 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stoneham (02180)

Considering a move to Stoneham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02180)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" – a personalized assessment of healthcare access, particularly relevant for individuals managing hypertension. This score considers various transportation options to medical facilities, vital for consistent care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for those prioritizing convenient and reliable healthcare.

The foundation of our analysis is the accessibility of medical facilities. The primary concern is the time and ease of reaching these facilities from various points within Stoneham. This directly impacts the ability to attend appointments, pick up medications, and receive timely care. We will explore the transportation landscape, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

For those preferring the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the road network in and around Stoneham is paramount. The proximity to major highways is a significant advantage. Interstate 93 (I-93), a crucial artery, provides swift access to Boston and surrounding areas. Depending on the specific location within Stoneham, a drive to Boston hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) or Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) can range from 20 to 45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

Route 28, running through Stoneham, offers convenient access to local businesses and medical offices. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Route 128, the “Yankee Division Highway,” provides a circumferential route, connecting to various hospitals and medical centers in the Greater Boston area. Drive times to these facilities can vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination. Always factor in potential delays, especially during rush hour.

Local roads like Main Street and Montvale Avenue are essential for navigating Stoneham. While these roads offer proximity to local healthcare providers, they can also experience traffic bottlenecks. Careful planning, including the use of navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, is essential for optimizing travel times. Consider the impact of weather conditions, as snow and ice can significantly lengthen drive times during the winter months.

**Public Transit: A Network of Support**

For those relying on public transportation, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus services in Stoneham. The primary bus routes serving the area are the 134 and 136. These routes connect Stoneham to neighboring towns and transportation hubs, such as the Orange Line subway stations.

The 134 bus route provides service to Wellington Station, an Orange Line stop. This offers a direct connection to downtown Boston and various medical facilities along the subway line. The 136 bus route also connects Stoneham to the Orange Line, providing access to healthcare options.

It's crucial to assess the accessibility of these bus routes. Do the bus stops have shelters? Are the buses themselves ADA-compliant, with ramps or lifts for individuals with mobility challenges? The MBTA website provides detailed information on route schedules, accessibility features, and real-time tracking.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments and pharmacies. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer specialized assistance. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. Companies like LogistiCare and Veyo operate in the Boston area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment of transportation options relative to healthcare needs. It considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

For individuals with hypertension, consistent access to medical care is paramount. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits necessitate reliable transportation. The score reflects the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers from a specific location within Stoneham.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

* **Proximity to medical facilities:** The closer you are to doctors' offices, hospitals, and pharmacies, the higher the score.
* **Availability of transportation:** The more transportation options available (car, public transit, ride-sharing), the higher the score.
* **Accessibility of public transit:** ADA compliance, frequency of service, and ease of access to bus stops impact the score.
* **Traffic conditions:** The impact of traffic congestion on drive times is a crucial factor.
* **Personal needs:** Individual mobility limitations or specific medical requirements will influence the score.

**Moving to Stoneham: A Personalized Approach**

When moving to Stoneham, consider your individual needs and preferences. If you rely on public transportation, research the proximity of bus stops to your potential residence. If you drive, assess the accessibility of major highways and local roads.

Utilize online resources, such as Google Maps, to estimate drive times and explore public transit routes. Contact the MBTA for detailed information on bus schedules and accessibility features. Investigate ride-sharing and medical transportation options in the area.

The "Hypertension Score" is a tool to help you make informed decisions about healthcare access in Stoneham. By carefully evaluating transportation options, you can find a location that meets your specific needs and supports your health and well-being. This proactive approach ensures a smooth transition and facilitates consistent access to essential medical care. Prioritizing transportation is a crucial step towards successful healthcare management.