05907, Norton, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05907, Norton, Vermont is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.04 percent of residents in 05907 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 05907

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing hypertension, necessitates a deep understanding of healthcare access within a specific geographic region. This write-up, tailored for ZIP code 05907 (Norton, Massachusetts), offers a comprehensive “Hypertension Score” analysis, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, providing a realistic picture of healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension or considering moving to Norton.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is regular medical care. This includes routine check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. The ability to readily access these services significantly impacts a patient's adherence to their treatment plan and, consequently, their overall health outcomes. Therefore, the “Hypertension Score” prioritizes proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities.

**Driving the Distance:**

For many residents of 05907, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The town's layout, with its suburban character, often necessitates driving to reach healthcare providers. The major thoroughfare, **Interstate 495**, provides a crucial artery for accessing hospitals and specialized clinics. Traveling north on I-495, you'll find the **Sturdy Memorial Hospital** in Attleboro, a drive that typically takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, heading south on I-495 leads to the **Milford Regional Medical Center**, a journey of approximately 30-35 minutes. These drive times are crucial for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis, where rapid access to emergency care is paramount.

Beyond the interstate, **Route 123** and **Route 140** serve as vital local roads. Route 123 offers a more direct route to local medical offices and pharmacies within Norton and nearby towns. Route 140 provides access to healthcare facilities in Mansfield and Taunton. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact these travel times, underscoring the importance of factoring in potential delays when planning medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Norton, while present, are limited. The **Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)** provides commuter rail service via the Providence/Stoughton Line, with a station in Norton. However, the station is not centrally located, requiring a drive or a local bus connection to reach it.

The MBTA bus routes serving Norton are limited. The primary route, **Route 14**, connects Norton to Attleboro and Taunton, offering a potential link to healthcare facilities in those areas. However, bus schedules may not always align with appointment times, and the frequency of service can be a barrier for those requiring frequent medical visits.

Regarding ADA accessibility, the MBTA strives to provide accessible services. All MBTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and stations are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible features does not negate the challenges of navigating a limited public transit system, particularly for those with mobility limitations or requiring frequent medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option in Norton. These services can provide convenient access to healthcare facilities, particularly for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. Companies like **MedStar Transportation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical conditions that make it difficult to travel independently. However, these services often require pre-booking and can incur additional costs.

**Pharmacy Access and Medication Adherence:**

Beyond physician visits, pharmacy access is critical for hypertension management. Several pharmacies are located within Norton, including chain pharmacies like **CVS** and **Walgreens**, as well as independent pharmacies. The proximity of these pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare providers ensures that patients can easily obtain their prescribed medications.

Medication adherence is a cornerstone of successful hypertension management. Easy access to pharmacies, coupled with the ability to refill prescriptions promptly, significantly improves medication adherence rates. This, in turn, leads to better blood pressure control and reduced risk of cardiovascular complications.

**Factors Influencing the Hypertension Score:**

The “Hypertension Score” for 05907 will be influenced by several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and frequency of public transportation, the accessibility and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the proximity of pharmacies all contribute to the overall score. The score will also consider the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology clinics and hypertension specialists, within a reasonable distance.

**Moving to Norton: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals considering moving to Norton, understanding the local healthcare landscape is crucial. The “Hypertension Score” provides a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access. While Norton offers a relatively accessible healthcare environment, potential residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and the availability of specialized medical services.

The town's suburban layout favors car ownership, but the limited public transit options and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives. Prospective residents should also research the availability of healthcare providers accepting their insurance plans and the proximity of pharmacies to their potential residences.

**Conclusion:**

The “Hypertension Score” for 05907 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options and healthcare access. While the town offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles and ride-sharing, the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. For individuals managing hypertension or considering moving to Norton, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access and successful disease management. The analysis highlights the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when assessing the suitability of a location for individuals with chronic health conditions.