01834, Groveland, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 01834, Groveland, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.20 percent of residents in 01834 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lawrence General Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Groveland, MA (ZIP Code 01834)

Considering a move to the charming town of Groveland, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01834)? Beyond the idyllic New England scenery and close-knit community, assessing healthcare accessibility is crucial. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease of commuting to medical facilities. It examines various transportation options, offering a clear picture of healthcare access within and beyond Groveland's borders. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Groveland's location in Essex County, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The town is primarily residential, with limited medical services directly within its boundaries. This necessitates travel to neighboring towns and cities for comprehensive healthcare needs. Consequently, the "Overall Health Score" for Groveland reflects the relative ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical care. The score considers the practicalities of transportation, acknowledging that healthcare access is inextricably linked to mobility.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Groveland is by car. The town's central location, however, means residents often rely on major roadways to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Driving times are significantly influenced by traffic conditions, especially during peak commuting hours.

The primary artery connecting Groveland to surrounding areas is **Route 113**, which provides access to Haverhill and other nearby towns. Travel times to healthcare facilities in Haverhill are typically within a 15-20 minute range, depending on traffic. **Route 97** offers another key route, linking Groveland to towns like Georgetown and Rowley.

For access to larger hospitals and specialized care, residents often travel to the city of Lawrence. This journey involves using **Interstate 495**, a major highway that can experience heavy congestion. Drive times to Lawrence General Hospital, for example, can range from 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic volume. The **Route 125** provides an alternative route to Lawrence, though it can be slower due to more frequent traffic lights and intersections.

Further afield, Boston offers a wide array of specialized medical facilities. Reaching Boston from Groveland requires navigating **Interstate 95** and can take approximately one hour, depending on traffic. This journey underscores the importance of planning and considering travel time when scheduling medical appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Groveland are limited, which can impact healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus service in the area, but the frequency and coverage are not extensive.

The **Merrimack Valley Regional TransitMerrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA)** operates several bus routes that serve Groveland and surrounding communities. Route 12 provides service to Haverhill, offering a connection to the MBTA Commuter Rail. Route 11 provides a link to Lawrence, and Route 13 provides a link to Georgetown. However, these routes typically run on a limited schedule, especially on weekends and evenings.

For individuals with disabilities, the MVRTA offers ADA-accessible buses on all routes. This is a crucial consideration for those requiring mobility assistance. However, the limited frequency and coverage of the bus routes can still pose a challenge for those seeking timely healthcare access. The lack of a dedicated commuter rail station within Groveland further restricts public transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Groveland, providing an alternative transportation option. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for short trips to local clinics or urgent care facilities.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transportation, several providers operate in the area. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. Companies like **CareRide** and **LogistiCare** are among the providers serving the region. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

Medical transportation services are particularly important for individuals who are unable to drive due to medical conditions or disabilities. They provide a vital link to healthcare access, ensuring that patients can attend appointments and receive necessary treatment. However, the availability and cost of these services should be considered when assessing overall healthcare access.

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

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Groveland, MA (ZIP Code 01834) is **moderate**. While the town offers a relatively convenient commute to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns by car, the limited public transportation options and reliance on major highways can pose challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides additional options, but these services may have limitations in terms of cost and availability. Residents should factor in travel times, traffic conditions, and the availability of transportation services when planning medical appointments.

For those considering moving to Groveland, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is essential. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the implications for accessing healthcare. Researching the location of nearby hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices is crucial. It is also important to explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Furthermore, individuals with specific medical needs or mobility limitations should pay particular attention to the accessibility of public transportation and the availability of ADA-compliant services. Planning ahead and understanding the transportation landscape will help ensure that healthcare needs can be met efficiently and effectively. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the practicality of accessing healthcare in Groveland, providing a realistic perspective for those considering making this charming town their home.