02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.04 percent of residents in 02072 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 1.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02072 (Stoughton, MA)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Stoughton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02072), necessitates a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis considers the multifaceted nature of transportation, acknowledging that the ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and wellness facilities is paramount to a healthy lifestyle. The ease or difficulty of this journey significantly impacts individual well-being, particularly for those with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or without personal vehicles. This report examines the available transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to determine the accessibility and efficiency of healthcare access within and from this specific geographic area.

Stoughton, a vibrant town located approximately 20 miles south of Boston, presents a unique blend of suburban living and proximity to a major metropolitan area. This geographical position influences the healthcare landscape, offering residents choices ranging from local community clinics to specialized medical centers in Boston and surrounding communities. However, the reality of navigating the transportation infrastructure, especially during peak hours, can create significant challenges. This report will provide an informed assessment of the overall health score related to healthcare access in Stoughton, MA.

The primary mode of transportation for many Stoughton residents is the personal vehicle. The town is conveniently situated near major roadways, including **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, **Route 24**, and **Route 138**. These highways provide direct access to various healthcare facilities. For example, **Good Samaritan Medical Center** in Brockton, a major regional hospital, is easily accessible via Route 24, typically a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. Similarly, **Sturdy Memorial Hospital** in Attleboro can be reached via I-95, usually taking approximately 25-35 minutes.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles introduces several considerations. Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend drive times, impacting appointment punctuality and potentially exacerbating health conditions. The cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and parking fees, represents a significant financial burden, particularly for low-income individuals. Furthermore, individuals without access to a car face considerable challenges in accessing healthcare. This highlights the importance of evaluating alternative transportation options to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.

Public transportation plays a crucial role in bridging the gap for those without personal vehicles. The **Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)** offers commuter rail service to Stoughton via the **Providence/Stoughton Line**. The Stoughton station provides direct access to downtown Boston, where a vast array of hospitals and specialty clinics are located. The train ride itself is relatively efficient, taking approximately 30-40 minutes to reach South Station in Boston. From South Station, passengers can connect to the MBTA’s subway system (the “T”) and various bus routes to reach specific healthcare destinations.

However, the commuter rail schedule may not always align perfectly with healthcare appointments, particularly for early morning or late afternoon appointments. The frequency of trains during off-peak hours and weekends is less frequent, potentially requiring longer wait times. Furthermore, the walk from the Stoughton station to some local healthcare facilities can be a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations. The MBTA strives to provide accessible services, with elevators and ramps at the Stoughton station and designated seating on trains. However, ensuring seamless accessibility for all passengers remains an ongoing priority.

The MBTA also operates several bus routes that serve Stoughton. The **Route 14** bus provides local service within the town, connecting residential areas with commercial centers, including some healthcare facilities. The **Route 714** bus offers a connection to the commuter rail station and provides service to Brockton, offering another option for accessing healthcare services. These bus routes are crucial for individuals who live outside the immediate vicinity of the commuter rail station or who need to reach healthcare facilities not directly accessible by train. However, bus service frequency can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends, potentially hindering healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering convenience and flexibility. The availability of ride-sharing services in Stoughton is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The cost of a ride to Boston hospitals can be substantial, potentially impacting an individual's ability to afford necessary healthcare services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, provide specialized support. Companies like **CareRide** and **MedStar Transportation** offer non-emergency medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations, those who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles, or those who cannot safely drive themselves. However, the availability of these services may be limited, and scheduling appointments in advance is often necessary. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary, potentially creating financial barriers to access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Stoughton, MA, is influenced by several factors. The town’s proximity to major roadways provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities for those with personal vehicles. The availability of commuter rail and bus service offers alternative transportation options for those without cars. Ride-sharing services provide convenience, but the cost can be a barrier. Medical transportation services cater to specific needs, but availability and cost remain concerns.

For those considering **moving to Stoughton**, the accessibility of healthcare should be a key consideration. While the town offers a variety of transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation pose potential challenges. The overall health score is therefore moderately positive, with room for improvement. Enhancements to public transportation, such as increased bus frequency and expanded service hours, would significantly improve healthcare access for all residents. Furthermore, initiatives to reduce the cost of transportation, such as subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical transportation providers, could help ensure equitable access to healthcare for all members of the community.

The evaluation of healthcare access in Stoughton must consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as income, education, and access to healthy food can influence an individual's ability to seek and receive healthcare. Individuals with lower incomes may face greater challenges in affording transportation, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall health score for residents of Stoughton.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Stoughton, MA (ZIP Code 02072), is moderate. While the town benefits from its location near major roadways and the availability of public transportation, challenges remain. The reliance on personal vehicles, the cost of ride-sharing, and the limited availability of medical transportation services can create barriers to healthcare access for certain segments of the population. Enhancements to public transportation, coupled with initiatives to address social determinants of health, are essential for improving the overall health score and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents. This analysis provides a foundation for further research and community-based interventions aimed at improving the health and well-being of the Stoughton community.