02130, Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02130, Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.66 percent of residents in 02130 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Faulkner Hospital-Brigham And Women's with a distance of 1.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02130 (Jamaica Plain, MA)

ZIP Code 02130, encompassing the vibrant neighborhood of Jamaica Plain in Boston, Massachusetts, presents a complex landscape for residents seeking healthcare access. Evaluating the overall health score within this area requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options, their associated challenges, and the impact on residents' ability to reach vital medical services. This write-up will delve into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare in Jamaica Plain, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to this dynamic community.

The primary factor influencing the health score in 02130 is the accessibility of healthcare facilities. This accessibility is, in turn, directly tied to the efficiency and reliability of the transportation infrastructure. Residents' ability to reach doctors' appointments, specialist consultations, and emergency care significantly impacts their overall well-being. A high health score necessitates readily available and convenient transportation options that minimize travel time and stress, particularly for those with mobility limitations or chronic conditions.

**Driving and Road Networks:**

For those who prefer to drive, navigating the streets of Jamaica Plain and its surrounding areas presents both advantages and disadvantages. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the major roadways, including the **Jamaicaway**, the **Arborway**, and **Centre Street**. These roads provide direct routes to medical centers located within and outside the neighborhood.

Drive times, however, are heavily influenced by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Reaching hospitals like Brigham and Women's Hospital or Massachusetts General Hospital, located in the Longwood Medical Area and downtown Boston respectively, can take anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions on **the I-95 (Route 128) and the I-90 (Massachusetts Turnpike)**. Even shorter trips within Jamaica Plain, such as to the Faulkner Hospital or the many private practices along **Centre Street**, can be delayed by traffic.

Parking availability at medical facilities is another significant consideration. While some hospitals offer ample parking garages, costs can be substantial. Street parking is often limited and subject to time restrictions, adding another layer of complexity to the commute. The health score is therefore negatively impacted by the potential for prolonged drive times, parking difficulties, and the associated stress of navigating congested roadways.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation offers a viable alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer not to drive or who are seeking to avoid the hassles of traffic and parking. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides several options for accessing healthcare facilities from Jamaica Plain.

The **Orange Line** subway is a primary artery, with several stations within the neighborhood, including Jackson Square, Stony Brook, and Green Street. The Orange Line offers direct access to downtown Boston and the Longwood Medical Area, making it a convenient option for reaching major hospitals and medical centers. Travel times to these destinations are generally shorter than driving, particularly during peak hours.

The **Green Line E branch** also serves Jamaica Plain, with stops along **Centre Street** and the **Arborway**. This line provides access to the Longwood Medical Area and other healthcare facilities. The Green Line, however, is subject to delays, particularly during rush hour, and the E branch can be crowded.

The MBTA also operates several bus routes that serve Jamaica Plain, including the **39, 38, 34, and 35** buses. These routes provide access to various healthcare facilities and connect to other MBTA lines. However, bus travel times can be longer than subway travel times, and buses are often subject to traffic delays.

The MBTA strives to provide accessible transportation options. All subway stations are equipped with elevators and ramps, and all buses are wheelchair accessible. However, the availability of elevators and ramps can sometimes be unreliable, and the accessibility of certain bus stops may be limited. This is a critical consideration when evaluating the health score, as it directly impacts the ability of individuals with disabilities to access healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for residents of Jamaica Plain. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to drive or rely on public transportation schedules. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for individuals with mobility limitations or those who need transportation at unusual hours.

However, ride-sharing costs can be significant, especially during peak hours or when traveling long distances. This cost factor can be a barrier to healthcare access for low-income residents. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can be unpredictable, particularly during inclement weather or periods of high demand.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Medical transportation services are often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option for some individuals. However, these services typically require advance booking, and availability can be limited.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 02130 is moderate. While the neighborhood boasts a variety of transportation options, each has its limitations. The presence of the Orange Line and Green Line E branch provides relatively convenient access to major medical centers. However, traffic congestion, parking challenges, and the potential for public transit delays can negatively impact travel times and increase stress levels.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation offers additional options, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost of ride-sharing and the need for advance booking for medical transport can create barriers to access for some residents.

The health score is also influenced by the accessibility of healthcare facilities within Jamaica Plain itself. The presence of Faulkner Hospital and numerous private practices within the neighborhood reduces the need for long-distance travel for some residents. However, the concentration of medical facilities in certain areas can create traffic congestion and parking difficulties.

**Conclusion:**

For those moving to Jamaica Plain, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial. While the neighborhood offers a range of options for accessing healthcare, each presents its own set of challenges. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when selecting their preferred mode of transportation. The health score in 02130 is directly tied to the ease with which residents can reach medical services. Improvements in public transit reliability, reduced traffic congestion, and increased affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation would all contribute to a higher health score and enhance the overall well-being of the community.