01351, Montague, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 01351, Montague, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.91 percent of residents in 01351 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baystate Franklin Medical Center with a distance of 6.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 01351 (Montague, MA)

This assessment delves into the multifaceted aspects of healthcare accessibility within ZIP code 01351, encompassing Montague, Massachusetts. It provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the availability and ease of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive perspective for residents and those considering moving to Montague. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare landscape of this rural community.

The Overall Health Score is derived from a weighted evaluation of several key factors. Drive times to various healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care facilities, constitute a significant portion of the score. The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation options also contribute, as does the presence and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Finally, the score considers the availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity of Montague, acknowledging the importance of local resources.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Montague, Massachusetts, is a town characterized by its rural setting, which significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary roadways serving the area are crucial for understanding transportation dynamics. The major artery is **Interstate 91 (I-91)**, providing a north-south corridor. While convenient for travel outside the immediate area, accessing healthcare facilities directly from I-91 can be circuitous.

Local roads like **Route 2** and **Route 63** serve as vital connectors. Route 2 offers an east-west route, while Route 63 provides a north-south link, both crucial for accessing healthcare. Drive times vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For instance, reaching the nearest hospital, Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield, typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 2.

Specialist appointments and access to advanced medical care often necessitate travel to larger regional centers. Driving to Springfield, Massachusetts, a hub for specialized healthcare, can take upwards of an hour via I-91, potentially impacting healthcare access. The time commitment highlights the significance of planning and considering travel time when scheduling appointments.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Montague are limited, which can pose challenges for individuals without personal vehicles. The **Franklin Regional Transit Authority (FRTA)** provides bus service, offering a vital link for those unable to drive. However, routes and schedules are limited, impacting healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility issues or those needing to reach facilities outside of the immediate service area.

The FRTA operates several routes that serve Montague. These routes connect to neighboring towns and cities, providing access to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, is limited, potentially creating barriers to accessing healthcare. The FRTA strives to provide ADA-accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and accessible vehicles, to ensure that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. The lack of frequent service can negatively affect the Overall Health Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential solution for those seeking transportation to healthcare appointments. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations within Montague. Ride-sharing services often require advance booking, and the cost can be a barrier for some individuals.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. Ambulance services are essential for emergency situations, while NEMT services cater to individuals who require assistance with transportation to medical appointments but do not require emergency care. These services are often more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing, potentially creating financial burdens.

**Medical Transport Brands** that serve the area include:

* **American Medical Response (AMR)**: Primarily for emergency medical services.
* **LifeStar Ambulance Service**: Offers both emergency and non-emergency medical transport.
* **Local Ambulance Services**: Several local ambulance services are available, often contracted by the town.
* **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)**: Often contracted by insurance companies to provide non-emergency medical transportation.

**Healthcare Access and Local Resources:**

The presence of local healthcare facilities is crucial for assessing healthcare access. Montague has several primary care practices, including family medicine and internal medicine providers. These local resources enhance the Overall Health Score by providing convenient access to routine medical care.

Specialist care, however, is more limited within the immediate vicinity. Residents often need to travel to Greenfield, Northampton, or Springfield for specialized medical services. The availability of local pharmacies and urgent care facilities also contributes to the overall healthcare accessibility.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Montague:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP code 01351 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of local primary care providers and the proximity to Baystate Franklin Medical Center are positive factors, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for specialist appointments pose challenges. The rural nature of the area and the dependence on roadways like I-91, Route 2, and Route 63 influence healthcare access.

Individuals considering moving to Montague should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should consider the limited service frequency and accessibility of the FRTA. The availability of ride-sharing services should also be assessed.

The Overall Health Score is impacted by the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. While the town offers local resources, residents may need to travel to access specialized care. The score is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing healthcare in a rural setting.

This analysis offers a comprehensive overview of healthcare access in Montague, Massachusetts. The Overall Health Score emphasizes the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare accessibility. The information provided can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and transportation options, particularly when considering moving to Montague.