02090, Westwood, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02090, Westwood, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.01 percent of residents in 02090 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Westwood Pembroke Health Systems with a distance of 1.97 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Westwood, MA (ZIP Code 02090)

Westwood, Massachusetts, a charming suburban town, offers a high quality of life, drawing families and individuals seeking a blend of tranquility and convenience. However, assessing the overall health score within ZIP code 02090 requires a comprehensive look at healthcare access, specifically the ease and efficiency of *transportation* options available to residents seeking medical attention. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the landscape for those *moving to Westwood* and prioritizing their health.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities promptly. For residents of Westwood, the primary mode of *transportation* to healthcare is often personal vehicles. Major roadways influence travel times. Route 1, a significant north-south artery, provides access to hospitals and medical centers in both directions, but it can be prone to congestion, especially during peak hours. Route 109, a more local road, offers a direct route to some medical practices, but its narrower lanes and traffic lights can slow down travel.

The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) is accessible via the Westwood exit, providing a high-speed route to Boston and its renowned medical institutions. However, the toll booths and potential traffic bottlenecks, particularly near the city, must be factored into travel time calculations. The drive time to major hospitals like Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center or Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston can range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Westwood. Closer to home, Norwood Hospital is readily accessible, typically within a 10-15 minute drive.

Public *transportation* presents an alternative, although its impact on healthcare access in Westwood is more nuanced. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates commuter rail service through the town. The Needham Line offers service to Boston, connecting to the Red Line and Orange Line subway systems, which provide access to numerous hospitals and medical facilities. The Westwood Station, located in the town center, is a key hub for this service.

However, the commuter rail schedule may not always align with urgent medical needs or appointments outside of typical business hours. Furthermore, the distance from the station to specific medical practices can require additional *transportation* such as a short taxi or ride-share. The accessibility of the commuter rail is generally good, with stations and trains designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA standards.

Bus service, operated by the MBTA, provides a more local *transportation* option. Route 34, for instance, connects Westwood to Dedham and the surrounding areas, offering a link to medical offices and hospitals along its route. The frequency of bus service, however, is generally lower than the commuter rail, and travel times can be significantly longer due to multiple stops and traffic congestion. While MBTA buses are equipped with accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, the overall reliance on bus service for healthcare access in Westwood is limited.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular for *transportation* to medical appointments. In Westwood, these services are readily available, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The wait times for a ride-share can vary depending on demand and the time of day, but typically, a ride can be secured within minutes. The cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. However, it provides door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate parking or walk long distances.

Medical *transportation* services specifically designed for patients offer another avenue for healthcare access. These services cater to individuals who may have mobility limitations or require assistance getting to and from appointments. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for seniors or individuals with chronic conditions.

The cost of medical *transportation* services can be substantial, and coverage by insurance varies. However, for those who cannot drive or lack access to other *transportation* options, these services are essential for maintaining healthcare access. Considering the *moving to Westwood* factors, this is a crucial consideration.

Evaluating the overall health score for healthcare access in Westwood, 02090, requires a synthesis of these factors. While the town benefits from its proximity to major medical centers in Boston and the availability of multiple *transportation* options, challenges remain. The reliance on personal vehicles can be problematic during peak traffic hours. Public *transportation*, while available, may not always be the most convenient or timely option. The cost of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services can also be a barrier for some residents.

The overall health score, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. Westwood offers good healthcare access for those who can drive or afford ride-sharing services. However, for individuals reliant on public *transportation* or medical *transportation*, the accessibility may be more limited. The town's location, while offering access to a wide range of medical facilities, requires careful planning and consideration of *transportation* options to ensure timely and efficient access to healthcare.

For those *moving to Westwood*, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and *transportation* capabilities is crucial. Consider the frequency of medical appointments, the distance to healthcare providers, and the availability of reliable *transportation* options. While Westwood offers a desirable living environment, the ease of healthcare access is a key factor in overall health and well-being.