02367, Plympton, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02367, Plympton, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.17 percent of residents in 02367 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth with a distance of 8.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02367 (Plympton, MA)

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access within ZIP Code 02367, Plympton, Massachusetts, considering transportation options. Understanding these factors is critical for residents and those considering moving to Plympton, as efficient transportation is intrinsically linked to healthcare access and overall well-being. We will explore the landscape of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities present.

Plympton, a charming suburban town, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness from major medical centers presents unique transportation considerations. The Overall Health Score, therefore, reflects the accessibility of healthcare facilities, factoring in the time and ease of reaching them. The score will be influenced by the variety and reliability of available transportation options.

**Driving Times: The Road to Care**

For many Plympton residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The most direct routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating the local roadways. The primary arteries are Route 106, Route 58, and a portion of Route 44. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting healthcare access.

The drive to South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, a major medical center, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth requires a drive of roughly 20 to 30 minutes. These times can fluctuate significantly, especially during rush hour, which can increase stress and potentially delay urgent medical care.

Smaller, more local practices, such as primary care physicians and dental offices, are often located within a 10 to 20-minute drive. However, specialized care, like cardiology or oncology, frequently necessitates travel to larger hospitals further afield. This underscores the importance of reliable transportation for accessing a full spectrum of healthcare services.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Plympton are limited. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates commuter rail service via the Kingston/Plymouth Line, which does offer a station in Plympton. However, the service is primarily geared towards commuters traveling to Boston.

While the commuter rail provides a relatively reliable means of transportation, it may not be the most direct route to healthcare facilities. Passengers may need to transfer to other modes of transportation, such as buses or ride-sharing services, adding to the overall travel time and complexity. The MBTA system does offer ADA-accessible features on its commuter rail trains and at most stations, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The MBTA bus network has limited service within Plympton itself. Route 238 connects Plympton to Plymouth, but its frequency is low, and it may not be convenient for accessing healthcare appointments. This lack of comprehensive bus service significantly limits the public transportation options for residents, especially those without access to a car.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plympton area. They offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive themselves. However, ride-sharing fares can be expensive, especially during peak hours or for longer distances to major hospitals. The availability of these services can also fluctuate, depending on driver availability, which can be a concern for scheduled appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations. However, these services often require prior scheduling, and their availability may be limited, depending on the individual's insurance coverage and medical needs.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 02367 is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While driving provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and distance can present challenges. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing and medical transport services, while available, may have limitations in terms of cost, availability, and scheduling.

For individuals considering moving to Plympton, it is crucial to carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation requirements. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should be aware of the limited options available. Residents should also consider the potential costs and complexities associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Living in Plympton offers a peaceful lifestyle, but the transportation challenges can impact healthcare access. Residents should be prepared to plan their healthcare appointments carefully, factoring in travel times and potential delays. Exploring all available transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is essential for maintaining good health and well-being.

The score is affected by the lack of a robust public transportation system, and the reliance on personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing services provides some relief, but the cost and availability can vary. Medical transport services are available but require careful planning and scheduling.

In conclusion, while Plympton offers a desirable living environment, the limitations in transportation options present a moderate challenge to healthcare access. Residents must be proactive in planning their healthcare needs, considering the available transportation options, and understanding the potential costs and complexities involved. This knowledge will help residents navigate the healthcare landscape and maintain their overall health and well-being.