01876, Tewksbury, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 01876, Tewksbury, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.75 percent of residents in 01876 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lowell General Hospital with a distance of 5.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 01876 (Tewksbury, MA)

The well-being of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential resources, and chief among these is healthcare. This analysis delves into the accessibility of healthcare facilities for residents of ZIP Code 01876, the charming town of Tewksbury, Massachusetts. We'll examine the various transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access and its impact on the overall health score for those considering moving to Tewksbury.

The primary mode of transportation in Tewksbury, as in most suburban areas, is the personal vehicle. The town's location, nestled in the Merrimack Valley, offers relatively easy access to a network of highways and roads. Interstate 495, a major north-south artery, forms the western boundary of Tewksbury, providing swift access to healthcare facilities in Lowell, Lawrence, and beyond. Route 38, a key local thoroughfare, runs north-south through the heart of Tewksbury, connecting residents to essential services and businesses, including urgent care centers and pharmacies. Route 38 then intersects with Route 133, which offers access to facilities in Andover and North Andover.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas vary depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to Lowell General Hospital, for instance, via I-495 and the Lowell Connector, typically takes around 15-20 minutes in non-peak hours. Driving to Saints Medical Center in Lowell, using the same route, would take a similar amount of time. The drive to Winchester Hospital, located to the south, could take between 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic on I-93. For those seeking specialized care at Boston-area hospitals, such as Massachusetts General Hospital or Brigham and Women's Hospital, the commute can extend to an hour or more, particularly during rush hour.

Public transportation options in Tewksbury, while present, are more limited than in larger urban centers. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus service to and from Tewksbury, connecting residents to the broader regional transit network. The 94 bus route is a key artery, offering service to Lowell and the nearby communities. The 94 bus route, however, may not be ideal for those needing to reach facilities in Boston, and the frequency of service is less than that of a subway.

The MBTA bus system is required to adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that all buses are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes features such as ramps or lifts, priority seating, and audio-visual announcements. While the MBTA strives to provide accessible transportation, the availability of accessible routes and the overall ease of use for individuals with mobility limitations should be carefully considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Tewksbury, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, pharmacies, and other medical facilities. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. It's crucial to factor in these costs when assessing the overall affordability of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available in the area. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. Companies like MedStar and AMR offer these services, catering to individuals who may require assistance getting to and from appointments. Medical transport services offer peace of mind for those with mobility challenges, providing a reliable and safe means of transportation.

Healthcare access extends beyond the physical act of getting to a medical facility. The availability of urgent care centers, pharmacies, and primary care physicians within Tewksbury itself is crucial. Tewksbury has a number of primary care physicians and specialists. CVS and Walgreens pharmacies are conveniently located in the town, providing easy access to medications and other healthcare essentials. The presence of these local resources enhances the overall healthcare access score for residents.

When evaluating the overall health score for the community of Tewksbury, the combination of transportation options needs to be considered. While personal vehicles offer the greatest flexibility, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The proximity to major highways and the availability of local healthcare resources contribute to a favorable healthcare access profile.

The overall health score for residents of 01876 is moderately high. The availability of various transportation options, coupled with the presence of local healthcare facilities, creates a favorable environment for accessing medical care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit should be considered. The potential for longer commute times to Boston-area hospitals and the cost of ride-sharing services also impact the overall score.

For those considering moving to Tewksbury, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is essential. While the town offers a good foundation for healthcare access, individuals with specific medical needs or mobility limitations should carefully assess the transportation options available to ensure they can comfortably and reliably reach the healthcare services they require.