02357, North Easton, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02357, North Easton, Massachusetts is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.90 percent of residents in 02357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 2.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in North Easton, MA (ZIP Code 02357)

This comprehensive analysis evaluates the ease of accessing healthcare services for residents of North Easton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02357), providing an “Overall Health Score” based on transportation infrastructure, healthcare facility proximity, and accessibility options. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to North Easton, as they directly impact overall well-being and quality of life.

The score considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. It also assesses the drive times to key healthcare providers, the availability of public transit routes, and the presence of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. This information is vital for making informed decisions about healthcare access in this community.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation for many North Easton residents is the personal vehicle. The town’s location, while offering a suburban feel, necessitates reliance on a well-maintained road network for accessing healthcare. Key arteries for reaching medical facilities include Route 106, a major east-west thoroughfare connecting North Easton to surrounding towns. Route 123, running north-south, also provides crucial access points.

Driving times to healthcare providers vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For example, driving to Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, a major regional hospital, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 106 and I-95. Reaching Morton Hospital in Taunton, another significant healthcare provider, usually involves a 25-35 minute drive, primarily utilizing Route 138 and Route 44.

Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times. Understanding these potential delays is crucial when planning medical appointments or responding to emergencies. Residents should factor in extra travel time, especially during rush hour, to ensure timely arrival at their healthcare destinations.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in North Easton is primarily provided by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and the Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA). The MBTA's commuter rail service, while offering limited direct access to healthcare facilities, provides a connection to Boston, where a vast array of hospitals and specialized medical centers are available.

The Commuter Rail's Providence/Stoughton Line has a station in North Easton, offering a convenient option for commuting to Boston. However, the station is not immediately adjacent to any major healthcare facilities. From South Station in Boston, passengers can access the city's extensive public transportation network, including the subway and bus lines, which provide connections to numerous hospitals and clinics.

GATRA operates bus routes within the region, offering a more localized transportation solution. While GATRA's routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, they can provide connections to larger transportation hubs or hospitals in surrounding towns. The availability and frequency of these routes should be investigated when considering healthcare access.

**Accessibility of Public Transit:**

The MBTA and GATRA are committed to providing accessible transportation services for individuals with disabilities. All MBTA commuter rail stations are equipped with elevators or ramps to ensure accessibility. GATRA buses are also equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments.

For those with mobility limitations, it is essential to confirm the accessibility features of specific bus routes and train stations before traveling. The MBTA and GATRA websites provide detailed information on accessibility, including route maps, schedules, and station amenities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in North Easton, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who do not drive or who need transportation at times when public transit is unavailable.

Ride-sharing services can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or rely on friends and family for rides. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who need medical supervision during transport. These services, such as MedStar, offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity and Variety:**

North Easton offers a range of healthcare options within a reasonable driving distance. Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro provides comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and a variety of specialty clinics. Morton Hospital in Taunton offers a similar range of services, serving a broader geographic area.

Additionally, numerous primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers are located in North Easton and surrounding towns. These facilities offer convenient access to routine medical care, preventative services, and specialized treatments.

The availability of a diverse range of healthcare providers is a significant advantage for North Easton residents. It allows individuals to choose the healthcare services that best meet their needs and preferences.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for access to healthcare in North Easton (ZIP Code 02357) is considered to be **Good**. While the reliance on personal vehicles and potential for traffic congestion are considerations, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, coupled with the proximity of a variety of healthcare facilities, contributes to a favorable score.

However, potential residents should consider their individual needs and circumstances when evaluating healthcare access. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the accessibility of public transit routes and the availability of medical transportation services. Those who require specialized medical care should research the proximity and accessibility of relevant healthcare providers.

Moving to North Easton presents a balanced picture regarding healthcare access. The town offers a blend of suburban convenience and access to essential medical services. Understanding the transportation landscape, the drive times, and the available public transit options is crucial for ensuring that healthcare needs can be met effectively. This analysis provides a foundation for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being in this community.