02322, Avon, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02322, Avon, Massachusetts is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.69 percent of residents in 02322 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 2.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02322

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. This report delves into the healthcare accessibility of Avon, Massachusetts, ZIP code 02322, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking healthcare within and around Avon.

**Overall Health Score: Moderate.** While Avon offers a decent array of healthcare facilities, the town's reliance on private vehicles and the limited scope of public transportation present challenges. Residents, especially those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations, may experience difficulties in accessing necessary medical services. The score reflects a balance between available options and the barriers to access that exist.

Avon, Massachusetts, a town of approximately 7,000 residents, is strategically located in southeastern Massachusetts, offering proximity to several major healthcare hubs. Its location, however, necessitates careful consideration of transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. This analysis emphasizes the importance of transportation as a critical determinant of health outcomes.

**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Avon residents is the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare facilities in the region often involves navigating several roadways. The most direct route to many healthcare providers typically involves utilizing Route 28, a major north-south thoroughfare that runs directly through Avon. This road provides access to local medical offices, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities.

For those seeking more specialized care or access to larger hospitals, the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and Route 24 are essential. These highways connect Avon to major medical centers in Boston and surrounding areas. Travel times, however, are subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. A trip to Boston, for example, could take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions on Route 24 and the Massachusetts Turnpike.

The quality of the roads themselves, including Route 28, Route 138, and local streets, is generally good. However, during inclement weather, such as snowstorms or heavy rain, travel times can increase significantly, potentially delaying access to urgent medical care. The ability to navigate these roads safely and efficiently is crucial for residents' overall health and well-being.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Avon is limited, primarily consisting of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) bus service. The primary route serving Avon is the 238, which connects the town to the Brockton MBTA Commuter Rail station. This route provides access to the commuter rail, offering a connection to Boston and other regional destinations.

The 238 bus operates with varying frequency throughout the day, with more frequent service during peak commuting hours. The MBTA has made efforts to improve accessibility on its buses, with most vehicles equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited frequency of the 238 route, especially on weekends and evenings, can pose a significant challenge for those needing to access healthcare outside of regular business hours.

Furthermore, the reliance on the bus to connect to the commuter rail adds an extra layer of complexity to healthcare access. Transfers between the bus and the train can add to travel time, and the availability of accessible stations can vary. Residents with mobility limitations must carefully plan their journeys, considering the accessibility features of each station and the potential for delays.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Avon and offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those who prefer not to drive. These services can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare facilities, offering a more convenient and flexible option than public transportation. However, ride-share services can be subject to surge pricing during peak demand periods, potentially making them an expensive option for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are also available in the area. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance with medical equipment. Companies like MedStar and other local providers offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and comfortable transport. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be costly, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Healthcare Facilities in and around Avon:**

Avon itself has a limited number of healthcare facilities. Residents can access primary care physicians, dental practices, and pharmacies within the town. However, for more specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or specialized surgery, residents often need to travel to nearby towns and cities.

Brockton, located just a few miles from Avon, offers a wider array of healthcare options, including Brockton Hospital, a major regional medical center. Stoughton and Randolph also provide access to medical specialists and urgent care facilities. For those seeking access to world-class medical care, Boston and its surrounding areas are home to numerous renowned hospitals and medical centers, including Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital.

**Impact on Residents and Considerations for Moving to Avon:**

The transportation landscape in Avon directly impacts residents' ability to access healthcare. Those without personal vehicles, individuals with mobility limitations, and those relying on public transportation may face significant challenges in accessing timely and appropriate medical care. The limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for traffic congestion can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those living in more remote areas of the town.

For individuals considering moving to Avon, it's crucial to carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation requirements. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for travel delays is essential. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should consider the ease of access to healthcare facilities when making their relocation decisions.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Avon, MA (02322) is moderate, reflecting the town's reliance on private vehicles and the limited scope of public transportation. While Avon offers some local healthcare options, residents often need to travel to surrounding towns and cities for specialized care. The availability of ride-share services and medical transportation providers offers some relief, but these options may be costly or have limited availability.

Improving healthcare access in Avon requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, particularly increasing the frequency of the 238 bus route and expanding service to evenings and weekends, would significantly benefit residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and providing financial assistance for medical transportation services could also improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within Avon, including specialized medical practices, would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care. Ultimately, prioritizing transportation and healthcare access is essential to fostering a healthier and more equitable community in Avon.