02052, Medfield, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02052, Medfield, Massachusetts is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.11 percent of residents in 02052 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Westwood Pembroke Health Systems with a distance of 5.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Medfield, MA (ZIP Code 02052)

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing not only the quality of healthcare services but also the ease with which residents can access them. In Medfield, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02052), this crucial aspect of well-being is heavily influenced by the existing transportation infrastructure. This write-up provides an 'Overall Health Score' based on an analysis of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all within the context of healthcare access. Prospective residents considering moving to Medfield will find this information invaluable.

The geographical layout of Medfield, nestled in Norfolk County, presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare accessibility. Its suburban character, while offering a desirable quality of life, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. The town’s proximity to major roadways, however, can also facilitate relatively quick access to a range of medical facilities.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery for navigating Medfield and connecting to surrounding towns is **Route 109**, which runs east-west through the heart of the community. This road provides direct access to local businesses, including medical offices, and links to major regional thoroughfares. Driving times to healthcare facilities in Medfield are generally short, typically under 10 minutes for local doctor’s offices and urgent care centers.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to nearby towns and cities. Accessing healthcare in Westwood, MA, requires navigating **Route 109** to **Route 1**, a major north-south highway. The drive to major hospitals like Norwood Hospital or Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Needham typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching Boston's world-renowned medical institutions involves a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, primarily via **Route 109** to **Interstate 95** (I-95) or **Route 1**.

Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times. The morning and evening commutes can add considerable delays, particularly on **Route 109** and at the interchanges with **I-95**. The overall health score must account for these potential delays, as they can exacerbate health emergencies and add stress to the process of seeking medical care.

**Public Transit Options:**

While Medfield is primarily a car-dependent community, public transit options are available, albeit limited. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides commuter rail service to Boston from the nearby towns of Walpole and Needham. This service, while not directly serving Medfield, can be accessed via a short drive, offering a viable alternative for those seeking to avoid the stress of driving into Boston.

The MBTA's commuter rail lines, particularly the Franklin Line and the Needham Line, provide access to major hospitals and medical centers in Boston. However, the necessity of driving to a station and the potential for delays on the commuter rail itself necessitate careful planning.

The MBTA also offers bus routes in the surrounding areas. The 52 and 52A bus routes, while not directly serving Medfield, operate in the neighboring towns of Walpole and Medway, respectively. These routes connect to the commuter rail and other bus lines, providing a more comprehensive transit network. The accessibility of these routes for Medfield residents is limited by the need for an additional transfer, potentially increasing travel time.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical factor in evaluating public transit options. The MBTA strives to ensure that all its services, including buses and commuter rail, are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes features such as ramps, elevators, and designated seating. The availability of accessible transportation is crucial for maintaining an equitable healthcare access system.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Medfield and offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments and other destinations. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, and the availability of drivers may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport brands, such as SeniorCare, offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly important for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transit. The availability and cost of medical transportation services are essential considerations for the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Medfield, MA (ZIP Code 02052) is moderately favorable. While the town offers good local healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options adds to the overall accessibility, but the cost and availability of these services can be a factor.

Prospective residents considering moving to Medfield should factor in commute times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation. Careful planning and consideration of these factors are essential for ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare. The town's proximity to major roadways and its relatively short drive times to major medical centers contribute positively to the score. However, the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic congestion detract from it.

The overall health score is a dynamic measure that can be improved through investments in public transit, the promotion of ride-sharing programs, and the expansion of medical transportation services. These efforts would enhance healthcare access and contribute to a healthier community. Ultimately, Medfield's 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access reflects a balance between its suburban character and its proximity to regional medical resources.