02186, Milton, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 02186, Milton, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.07 percent of residents in 02186 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital - Milton with a distance of 2.14 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02186 (Milton, MA)**

The quiet, tree-lined streets of Milton, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02186) offer a desirable residential haven. But beneath the idyllic facade lies a critical consideration for residents, particularly those managing hypertension: healthcare access. Evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services forms the core of this "Hypertension Score" analysis, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely healthcare.

The ability to promptly access healthcare is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and emergency interventions are vital components of managing this condition. The geographical layout and transportation infrastructure within and around Milton significantly influence this access. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, each contributing to a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility.

For residents relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for healthcare access are the major roadways. Route 93, a vital north-south highway, provides a direct link to Boston and its concentration of hospitals and specialized clinics. The commute from Milton to Boston via Route 93 typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The Southeast Expressway (Route 93) is a major thoroughfare, and congestion during peak hours can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying critical medical appointments.

Alternatively, Route 1 provides another route, though it is often more congested, particularly near the Neponset River. The drive to Boston via Route 1 may take longer than Route 93, especially during rush hour. Smaller roads, such as Brush Hill Road and Canton Avenue, offer alternative routes within Milton and to nearby towns. However, these roads are often slower and less direct.

Public transportation provides an essential alternative for those without personal vehicles. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates several bus routes that serve Milton. The 24 bus route, for instance, runs through Milton and connects to the Red Line subway at Ashmont Station. This provides access to the Longwood Medical Area, home to several major hospitals and medical facilities. The 34 bus route also services parts of Milton, offering another connection to the Red Line.

The Red Line itself provides a direct and relatively quick route to downtown Boston and its many medical centers. The Milton station and the Ashmont station are the primary points of access to the Red Line for Milton residents. However, the Red Line can be crowded during peak hours, and potential delays can impact travel times. The MBTA strives to maintain ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on its buses and subway lines, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation to and from medical appointments. The availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day and demand. While ride-sharing provides convenience, it can be more expensive than public transit, especially during peak hours.

For individuals with specific medical needs, specialized medical transport services are available. These services, often offered by private companies, provide transportation specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other medical requirements. These services typically require advance booking and may be covered by insurance.

Healthcare access in Milton is also shaped by the distribution of medical facilities within and around the town. Milton itself has several primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often necessitates travel to Boston or other nearby cities. The proximity of Milton to Boston is a significant advantage, as it provides residents with access to a wide range of healthcare providers.

The "Hypertension Score" for Milton (02186) reflects a multifaceted assessment of healthcare access. The score considers the time it takes to reach various healthcare providers using different transportation modes. Factors such as traffic congestion, public transit reliability, and the availability of ride-sharing services are all considered. The score also accounts for the availability of specialized medical transport services and the proximity of Milton to major medical centers in Boston.

The score also considers the potential impact of moving to Milton for individuals with hypertension. While the town offers a desirable living environment, prospective residents must carefully evaluate the healthcare access options available. The score provides a valuable tool for understanding the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, which is crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 02186 is positive, reflecting the town's proximity to Boston and the availability of various transportation options. However, the score also highlights the potential challenges associated with traffic congestion and the reliance on public transit. Residents must carefully consider their individual transportation needs and preferences when assessing their healthcare access.

The score also acknowledges the importance of planning for healthcare needs. Individuals with hypertension should identify their preferred healthcare providers, familiarize themselves with the transportation options available, and plan for potential delays. This proactive approach can help ensure that they can access the care they need in a timely and efficient manner.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access. As new transportation technologies emerge and healthcare services evolve, the score will be updated to reflect these changes. This ongoing evaluation ensures that residents of Milton have the most accurate and up-to-date information on healthcare access.