01746, Holliston, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 01746, Holliston, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.37 percent of residents in 01746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Metrowest Medical Center with a distance of 5.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 01746 (Holliston, MA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Holliston, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01746) requires a deep dive into their ability to access healthcare. This encompasses not only the availability of medical facilities but also the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options to reach them. Holliston, a charming town, is a desirable location for **moving to Holliston**, but prospective residents must understand the realities of **healthcare access** within the context of their daily lives. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture.

Holliston's geographical location, while offering a sense of suburban tranquility, presents certain challenges in terms of healthcare accessibility. The town is situated in Middlesex County, approximately 25 miles west of Boston. This distance, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can significantly impact travel times to medical appointments. The town's healthcare landscape is primarily characterized by local practices and hospitals located in neighboring communities.

Driving remains the most common mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in Holliston. The primary arteries for travel are Route 126, which runs directly through the town, and Route 16, providing east-west connectivity. Route 495, a major highway, offers access to larger medical centers, but its proximity to Holliston necessitates understanding potential traffic bottlenecks. The town's roads are generally well-maintained, but rush hour can drastically increase travel times.

For routine appointments, residents might frequent local primary care physicians and specialists within Holliston or nearby towns like Milford and Ashland. Drive times to these facilities typically range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, residents often need to travel further afield.

Accessing major hospitals, such as those in Framingham (MetroWest Medical Center) or Boston (Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital), necessitates longer drives. Travel to Framingham, utilizing Route 126 and potentially Route 9, could take 20 to 30 minutes during off-peak hours. Reaching Boston, particularly during peak commuting times, can easily exceed an hour, requiring travel on Route 9, Route 95, and potentially the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90). Understanding these potential delays is crucial for managing healthcare needs effectively.

Public transit options in Holliston are limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who do not drive. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) does not directly serve Holliston with commuter rail lines. The closest commuter rail station is in Framingham, requiring a drive or a ride-share to access. The MBTA bus service does not extend into Holliston. This lack of robust public transit disproportionately affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system makes ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft important. These services provide a more flexible option for accessing healthcare, particularly for those unable to drive. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Residents should factor in the potential expense and wait times when planning their medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer another avenue for **healthcare access**. Companies like MedRide and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking and may have associated costs, but they offer a crucial lifeline for those who cannot travel independently.

The availability of these specialized services is a positive aspect of the **transportation** landscape in Holliston. However, the reliance on these services highlights the need for improved public transit options to ensure equitable **healthcare access** for all residents.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. While ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offer accessible vehicles, the lack of accessible public transit options is a significant drawback. Ensuring that all modes of **transportation** meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards is essential for creating a truly inclusive healthcare environment.

When considering **moving to Holliston**, potential residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the available **transportation** options. Those with chronic medical conditions or frequent appointments should prioritize locations with convenient access to healthcare facilities or reliable **transportation** alternatives.

The overall health score for Holliston (ZIP Code 01746) is moderately favorable. The town offers a good quality of life, but the limitations in **transportation** options, particularly public transit, present challenges to **healthcare access**. While driving is the primary mode of travel, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays can impact the timeliness and convenience of medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost and availability of these services should be considered.

The future of **healthcare access** in Holliston could be improved by exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit options, such as establishing a bus route connecting the town to nearby commuter rail stations. Promoting partnerships between local healthcare providers and **transportation** services could also enhance accessibility. Ultimately, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the availability of medical services and the efficiency and affordability of **transportation** options.