01747, Hopedale, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 01747, Hopedale, Massachusetts is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.60 percent of residents in 01747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milford Regional Medical Center with a distance of 0.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 01747 (Hopedale, MA)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' for residents of Hopedale, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01747), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. It considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, evaluating their efficiency, reliability, and convenience in connecting residents with essential medical care. Understanding these factors is critical for anyone considering moving to Hopedale, as ease of **healthcare access** significantly impacts overall well-being.

Hopedale, a charming town nestled in Worcester County, offers a blend of residential tranquility and proximity to larger urban centers. However, its location presents unique challenges regarding **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The town's relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of commute times and available options when assessing its suitability for individuals with existing or potential medical needs.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Hopedale residents is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare providers are heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the specific destination. Access to major highways is crucial. Route 16 serves as a primary artery, connecting Hopedale to neighboring towns and cities. However, this road can experience congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

To reach hospitals and specialized medical centers, residents often utilize Interstate 495, a major north-south highway. Driving north on I-495 provides access to facilities in Marlborough and Lowell, while heading south leads to hospitals in Milford and Franklin. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) is accessible via I-495, opening up options in Worcester and the greater Boston area.

The drive to Milford Regional Medical Center, a nearby and frequently utilized facility, typically takes between 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic on Route 16 and Milford's local roads. Reaching UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester requires a longer commute, approximately 30-45 minutes via I-495 and the Massachusetts Turnpike. Boston-area hospitals, such as Massachusetts General Hospital or Brigham and Women's Hospital, can necessitate a drive of 45 minutes to an hour or more, especially during rush hour.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Hopedale are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) does not directly serve Hopedale with commuter rail or subway lines. However, the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus service to the area.

The WRTA Route 14, connecting Worcester and Milford, does pass through Hopedale. However, service frequency is limited, with buses running primarily during weekday business hours. This makes it less practical for early morning appointments or evening medical needs. The WRTA buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of extensive public transit necessitates careful planning for healthcare appointments. Residents relying on public transportation may need to factor in significant travel time and potential delays, impacting their overall **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Hopedale, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can create accessibility challenges for individuals with limited financial resources or those living in more remote areas of the town.

Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, such as Medstar Transportation or American Medical Response, offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services can be invaluable, they often come with higher costs than other transportation options. The availability of these services and their insurance coverage should be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Hopedale residents regarding healthcare access is moderately positive. While the town benefits from its proximity to major highways and healthcare facilities in surrounding areas, the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges.

The drive times to nearby hospitals are generally manageable, but longer commutes to Boston-area hospitals can be time-consuming and stressful. The limited public transit options and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services can create barriers for some residents.

For individuals considering **moving to Hopedale**, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those with mobility limitations, limited financial resources, or a reliance on public transportation should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access.

The overall health score for Hopedale is thus a function of its location and the available transportation infrastructure. The town's proximity to major highways and healthcare facilities is a positive factor, but the limitations in public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges. Residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances to determine if Hopedale is the right fit for them. This careful consideration of the **transportation** landscape is critical for ensuring adequate **healthcare access** and overall well-being.