02360, Plymouth, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02360, Plymouth, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.30 percent of residents in 02360 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 0.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02360 (Plymouth, MA)

The overall health score for healthcare access in Plymouth, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02360), hinges significantly on the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. This write-up delves into the various transportation options available, providing a comprehensive assessment of their impact on healthcare access. For those considering moving to Plymouth, understanding these nuances is crucial for making informed decisions about their well-being.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the geographic layout of Plymouth. While the town boasts a charming coastal setting, its sprawling nature presents challenges for healthcare access. Many residents live outside the immediate vicinity of medical centers, necessitating reliance on various transportation methods. The availability and efficiency of these options directly affect the overall health score.

**Driving: The Dominant Mode**

Driving remains the most prevalent method of transportation for accessing healthcare in Plymouth. The town is served primarily by Route 3, a major highway connecting Plymouth to Boston and Cape Cod. Route 44, another significant thoroughfare, provides access to Taunton and other inland communities. Local roads, including Court Street, Sandwich Street, and Long Pond Road, offer access to various medical offices and facilities.

Drive times to healthcare providers vary depending on the location of the resident and the specific facility. Residents in the northern part of Plymouth, closer to Route 3, generally experience shorter travel times to facilities in Kingston or Duxbury. Those residing in the southern or western parts of Plymouth may face longer commutes, especially during peak traffic hours. Traffic congestion on Route 3, particularly during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times, impacting healthcare access, especially for urgent care needs.

**Public Transportation: Limited but Present**

Plymouth Area Transit (PAT) provides public transportation within the town and to neighboring communities. PAT offers fixed-route bus services, connecting key areas and providing access to medical facilities. However, the coverage area is limited, and the frequency of service may not always meet the needs of all residents.

For those seeking healthcare access, PAT's Route 1, which runs along Court Street, is particularly relevant, as it provides access to the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth and numerous medical offices. Route 2, which serves the Manomet area, offers access to some medical facilities, but with less frequency.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor in evaluating the health score for individuals with disabilities. PAT has ADA-compliant buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access healthcare facilities. However, the limited route coverage and frequency of service remain significant barriers for some residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services can provide convenient access to healthcare facilities, especially for appointments that are not time-sensitive. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, and the cost can be a barrier for some individuals.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, play a crucial role in improving healthcare access. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. Local medical transportation providers offer services within Plymouth and to surrounding areas, including Boston and Providence.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Plymouth, ZIP Code 02360, is a complex evaluation. It considers the interplay of multiple factors, including drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services.

Drive times are a significant factor, with traffic congestion on Route 3 and Route 44 potentially extending travel times. Public transportation, while present, has limitations in coverage and frequency. Ride-sharing services offer an alternative but may be subject to fluctuating availability and cost. Medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with specific needs.

**Specific Facilities and Drive Times**

Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth, the primary hospital in the area, is located near the intersection of Route 3 and Route 44. Drive times to this facility vary depending on the location within Plymouth. Residents in the northern part of town may reach the hospital within 10-15 minutes, while those in the southern or western parts may face commutes of 20-30 minutes, or longer during peak traffic.

Several medical offices and specialty clinics are located along Court Street, Route 44, and other local roads. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter than those to the hospital, but they still depend on the resident's location and traffic conditions.

**Impact on Moving to Plymouth**

For individuals considering moving to Plymouth, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the availability and accessibility of these services. Prospective residents should also consider the potential impact of traffic congestion on their ability to access healthcare.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Plymouth reflects the town's commitment to providing healthcare services to its residents. While challenges exist, the availability of various transportation options mitigates some of these issues. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for anyone considering making Plymouth their home.

**Conclusion: A Balancing Act**

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Plymouth (ZIP Code 02360) is a nuanced assessment. While driving remains the dominant mode of transportation, the limitations of public transit and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Medical transportation services play a vital role in bridging the gaps. For those moving to Plymouth, carefully evaluating their individual needs and transportation preferences is crucial to ensure adequate healthcare access. The town's commitment to healthcare, combined with the availability of diverse transportation options, contributes to a relatively positive, albeit complex, healthcare access environment.