01864, North Reading, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 01864, North Reading, Massachusetts is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.92 percent of residents in 01864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Burlington with a distance of 7.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in North Reading, MA (ZIP Code 01864)

Assessing healthcare access within North Reading, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01864), requires a comprehensive examination of transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, culminating in an overall health score reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to North Reading, providing a realistic understanding of their healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of transportation in North Reading is the private automobile. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, facilitating access to a wide range of healthcare facilities. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours.

Accessing healthcare facilities in surrounding towns such as Reading, Woburn, and Winchester typically involves utilizing **Interstate 93 (I-93)**, a major north-south artery. Travel to Boston, where many specialized hospitals are located, can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route can experience significant congestion during rush hour, potentially extending travel times considerably.

For local healthcare needs, residents often utilize **Route 28 (Main Street)**, which runs directly through North Reading. This route provides access to local medical offices, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities. **Route 62** also serves as a key connector, offering access to healthcare providers in neighboring communities.

The availability of public transportation in North Reading is limited but still offers some options. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus service in the area. However, the coverage is not extensive, and direct routes to major hospitals are often unavailable.

**MBTA Route 134** is the primary bus route serving North Reading. This route connects the town to the Reading commuter rail station, offering a connection to Boston's healthcare facilities. However, the bus schedule may not align perfectly with medical appointment times, and transfers can add significant travel time.

**MBTA Route 134** does not have ADA-accessible features, which can pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. The commuter rail, while offering a more direct route to Boston, may still require transfers and walks to reach specific hospitals.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in North Reading. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services can also be subject to fluctuations in demand and driver availability, potentially leading to delays. This is especially relevant during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services are also available for residents of North Reading. These services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. They provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel on board.

Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including companies like Senior Ride Services, and other regional providers. These services offer a valuable lifeline for those who cannot utilize other transportation options. However, they may require advance booking and can be more expensive than other modes of transportation.

The overall health score for healthcare access in North Reading, MA (ZIP Code 01864), is moderately positive. The town's location near major highways provides relatively easy access to a wide range of healthcare facilities in surrounding communities. However, the reliance on private automobiles and the limited public transportation options can pose challenges for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost and potential for delays must be considered. The score is also influenced by the need for individuals to navigate traffic, especially during peak hours, and the potential for limited accessibility for those with disabilities.

Individuals considering moving to North Reading should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. While the town offers a good quality of life, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration of the available transportation options. The overall health score reflects a balance between accessibility and potential challenges.

The score is further impacted by the distance to specialized medical centers, such as those in Boston. While I-93 offers a relatively direct route, the travel time can be significant, especially during rush hour. This factor is particularly relevant for residents requiring specialized care or frequent appointments at these facilities.

Furthermore, the availability of healthcare providers within North Reading itself is a factor. While local medical offices and urgent care facilities are available, residents may need to travel to surrounding towns for specialized services or hospital care. This reliance on external healthcare resources further underscores the importance of transportation options.

The overall health score also acknowledges the importance of preventative care and the accessibility of primary care physicians. Residents should consider the availability of local primary care providers and the ease with which they can schedule appointments and access routine medical services.

The score also considers the potential impact of unforeseen circumstances, such as inclement weather or traffic accidents, on transportation access. These factors can significantly impact travel times and the ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly.

In conclusion, while North Reading offers relatively good healthcare access, residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the available options. The overall health score reflects a balance between the town's strategic location, the availability of various transportation modes, and the potential challenges associated with travel times, traffic, and public transportation limitations. The score serves as a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to North Reading, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility.