01757, Milford, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 01757, Milford, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.25 percent of residents in 01757 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milford Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Milford, MA (ZIP Code 01757)

The overall health score for healthcare access in Milford, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01757) reflects a complex interplay of transportation options, geographical realities, and the availability of medical services. Evaluating this score requires a nuanced understanding of commute times, public transit, ride-sharing capabilities, and the presence of specialized medical transport. For individuals considering moving to Milford, this analysis provides a critical perspective on healthcare access.

Milford, a town nestled in Worcester County, presents a unique transportation landscape. While boasting a relatively central location, access to healthcare necessitates understanding the practicalities of navigating the region. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 495, the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), and Route 109. Route 16 and Route 85 also play vital roles. Drive times, a crucial component of the health score, vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

For residents relying on personal vehicles, a trip to Milford Regional Medical Center, the town's primary healthcare provider, offers a relatively short commute. However, accessing specialized care in Boston or Worcester necessitates longer journeys. During peak hours, congestion on I-495 and Route 16 can significantly extend travel times. Conversely, off-peak travel often provides a more efficient experience.

Public transportation, while available, presents limitations in Milford. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates commuter rail service through the Franklin Line, offering a direct connection to Boston. The Milford station is conveniently located, but the schedule may not always align with individual healthcare appointments. The MBTA bus service, with routes like the 15 and 17, provides local transportation, but these routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. ADA accessibility on public transit is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the services.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Milford, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing also fluctuates based on demand and driver availability. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention must consider the financial and logistical implications.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like MedStar and CareRide offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs must be factored into the overall health score.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities also influences the health score. While Milford Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive services, including emergency care, specialty care may require travel to Boston or Worcester. This necessitates considering the drive times and the availability of transportation options. The presence of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics in Milford improves access to immediate medical attention.

The health score also considers the demographics of the population. Milford has a diverse population, including a significant senior population. This demographic group often relies heavily on healthcare services and may have limited mobility. The availability of accessible transportation options is particularly crucial for this segment of the population.

For individuals considering moving to Milford, understanding the healthcare access landscape is paramount. The overall health score reflects the balance between available healthcare services and the transportation options required to reach them. The score is influenced by drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transport services.

The drive to Milford Regional Medical Center is usually relatively short, but access to specialized care in Boston or Worcester requires longer commutes. The MBTA commuter rail offers a direct route to Boston, but the schedule may not always align with medical appointments. Ride-sharing services provide an alternative, but the cost can be a factor. Medical transport services cater to individuals with specific needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Milford reflects a moderate level of accessibility. While the town offers local healthcare facilities and access to Boston via commuter rail, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the need for specialized medical transport impact the score. For individuals considering moving to Milford, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Careful planning and consideration of these factors will ensure that residents can access the healthcare services they require.