02184, Braintree, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02184, Braintree, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.48 percent of residents in 02184 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Shore Hospital with a distance of 3.24 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02184 (Braintree, MA)**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Braintree, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02184), this access hinges significantly on the ease and efficiency of transportation. This write-up provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering the various modes of transportation available for residents to reach medical facilities, from drive times to public transit options and alternative solutions. This is crucial information for those considering moving to Braintree, offering a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in Braintree is the **Southeast Expressway (I-93)**. This major highway provides direct access to Boston and the surrounding areas, including numerous hospitals and medical centers. However, rush hour on I-93 can be notoriously congested, significantly impacting drive times. Another critical roadway is **Route 3**, which offers an alternative route south, also connecting to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns. Local roads like **Washington Street** and **Quincy Avenue** provide crucial links to local medical offices and urgent care centers, but their traffic flow can be unpredictable.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in and around 02184 vary depending on the destination and time of day. During off-peak hours, a drive to Boston Medical Center (BMC) via I-93 might take approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during the morning and evening commutes, this could easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Reaching South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, via Route 3, might take around 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours, but again, traffic can dramatically increase this time.

Public transportation offers a viable alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid the stress of driving. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides service to Braintree via the Red Line. The **Braintree Station** serves as the southern terminus of the Red Line, making it a critical transportation hub. From Braintree Station, commuters can easily reach downtown Boston, where numerous major hospitals, including Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, are readily accessible.

The Red Line offers a generally reliable service, but it can be subject to delays, especially during peak hours or due to maintenance. The MBTA also provides bus services within Braintree and connecting to surrounding towns. Several bus routes, including the **230, 236, and 238**, offer connections to local medical facilities and other key destinations. While the MBTA strives to maintain accessibility, some bus routes may not have the same level of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance as the Red Line, which has accessible stations and elevators.

For those requiring door-to-door transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Braintree. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who need to travel at odd hours. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it provides a flexible option for accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services are also available for residents of 02184. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments but do not need an ambulance. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist with patient transfers. Some well-known medical transportation brands operating in the area include MedStar and Logisticare.

Beyond these primary modes of transportation, walking and cycling are viable options for accessing local healthcare facilities, especially for those living near medical offices or urgent care centers. However, Braintree’s infrastructure is not always conducive to these modes of transportation. Sidewalks and bike lanes are not always consistently available, and the town’s hilly terrain can present challenges for some individuals.

The “Overall Health Score” for commute to healthcare in 02184 is therefore a mixed bag. The area benefits from a robust public transit system, including the Red Line, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. However, the reliance on I-93 and Route 3 can lead to significant delays during peak hours, and the infrastructure for walking and cycling could be improved.

For those considering moving to Braintree, this assessment highlights the importance of carefully considering their individual transportation needs and the location of healthcare facilities relative to their potential residence. While the town offers a range of transportation options, the efficiency of healthcare access will vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen and the time of day. Residents should familiarize themselves with the MBTA schedules, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for traffic delays to ensure they can access the healthcare they need in a timely and efficient manner.

The ease of healthcare access is a vital component of a healthy community, and Braintree, with its diverse transportation landscape, offers both opportunities and challenges in this regard. The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare commute in 02184 is a reflection of these complexities, providing a valuable resource for residents and prospective newcomers alike. The ability to navigate the transportation network effectively is a key factor in maintaining good health and well-being in Braintree.