02330, Carver, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02330, Carver, Massachusetts is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.75 percent of residents in 02330 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 7.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Carver, MA (ZIP Code 02330)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Carver, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02330), requires a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare. This includes not just the availability of medical facilities, but also the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach them. Transportation, the crucial link, significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for a community like Carver, where geographical factors and limited public transit options present unique challenges. Moving to Carver, therefore, necessitates careful consideration of these transportation realities.

Carver, a town characterized by its rural charm and relatively low population density, is situated in Plymouth County. Its healthcare landscape is primarily defined by its proximity to larger urban centers, notably Plymouth and Wareham, and the resources they offer. The town itself has limited immediate healthcare options, making transportation a critical determinant of health outcomes.

The primary method of transportation for most Carver residents is the personal vehicle. Driving times to various healthcare facilities are therefore a crucial factor in determining healthcare access. The major roadways serving Carver are Route 44, Route 58, and Route 105. Route 44, a key east-west artery, offers access to Plymouth and its healthcare facilities, including Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth, typically a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic. Route 58 provides north-south access, connecting Carver to other towns and potentially healthcare options further afield. Route 105, a more local road, facilitates travel within Carver and connects to neighboring communities.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. The morning and evening commutes often experience delays, especially on Route 44, which can add considerable time to the journey to a medical appointment or in an emergency. This is a critical consideration for residents, particularly those with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent medical attention.

Public transportation options in Carver are limited. The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA) provides some bus service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. The primary GATRA route serving Carver is the Route 21, which offers limited service to Plymouth. This route does not operate on Sundays. The GATRA buses are equipped with ADA accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and the limited geographical coverage of the GATRA routes mean that public transit is not a viable option for many Carver residents, especially for those needing to access healthcare facilities in a timely manner. The lack of robust public transportation further underscores the importance of personal vehicles for healthcare access in Carver.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability and cost can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services for medical appointments is also a consideration. While they can provide a convenient option for some, they may not be a dependable solution for all residents, especially those with limited financial resources or those living in areas with limited ride-share availability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) offer specialized transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, these services often come with a higher cost than other transportation options and may require advance booking. The availability of these services and the associated costs are important factors to consider when assessing healthcare access.

Healthcare access is also influenced by the availability of medical facilities in the surrounding towns. Plymouth, with its hospital and numerous specialist practices, is a major healthcare hub for Carver residents. Wareham, located to the south, also offers healthcare services, including primary care physicians and urgent care centers. The drive times to these facilities, as previously mentioned, are a key determinant of healthcare access.

The availability of healthcare providers within Carver itself is limited. Residents must often travel to neighboring towns for specialized care, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation. The distance and travel time to these facilities can be a barrier to care, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

The overall health score for Carver residents is, therefore, significantly influenced by transportation factors. While the town offers a peaceful and desirable living environment, the limited public transportation options and reliance on personal vehicles present challenges to healthcare access. Residents must carefully consider drive times, traffic congestion, and the availability and cost of alternative transportation options when evaluating their healthcare access.

Moving to Carver, therefore, requires a realistic assessment of transportation needs and healthcare access. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers in the area, consider the practicality of relying on personal vehicles, and investigate the availability and cost of alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services or medical transportation. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring that residents can access the healthcare they need in a timely and efficient manner. The overall health score for Carver, while potentially positive due to its rural setting and access to outdoor recreation, is tempered by the transportation challenges inherent in its location and the limited public transit options.