02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.60 percent of residents in 02760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 12.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02760 (North Attleboro, MA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of North Attleboro, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02760), requires a comprehensive look at their access to healthcare. This includes a detailed examination of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on the ability to reach medical facilities. The ease with which residents can access healthcare significantly influences their overall well-being, making transportation a critical factor in evaluating the health of this community. Considering a move to North Attleboro? This analysis will provide valuable insights into the practicalities of obtaining medical care.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in North Attleboro is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's location, while offering a degree of suburban tranquility, necessitates reliance on roadways for reaching hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Major arteries like Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Route 1 are vital for accessing healthcare facilities located in surrounding towns and cities. I-95 provides a direct route north to Providence, Rhode Island, and south towards Boston, Massachusetts, both home to major medical centers. US Route 1, running parallel to I-95, offers a more direct route to some local healthcare providers, often bypassing the congestion of the interstate.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. Reaching Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, a crucial local resource, typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic on Route 1 and Route 1A. For more specialized care, residents often travel to facilities in Providence, such as Rhode Island Hospital or Women & Infants Hospital, which can take between 30 to 45 minutes via I-95, assuming normal traffic conditions. Boston's renowned medical institutions, including Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, are accessible within a 45- to 75-minute drive, again contingent on traffic patterns.

Public transportation options in North Attleboro, while available, are limited and may present challenges for those seeking healthcare access. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates commuter rail service through the town, with a station on the Providence/Stoughton Line. While this offers a viable alternative for accessing healthcare in Boston, the schedule is often geared towards peak commuting hours, potentially limiting its usefulness for medical appointments during off-peak times. Furthermore, the distance from the train station to some healthcare facilities in Boston may necessitate additional transportation, such as the MBTA subway or ride-sharing services.

The MBTA also provides bus service in the area, although the routes and frequency are not extensive within North Attleboro itself. Bus routes may offer limited access to healthcare facilities within the town or in neighboring communities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. The MBTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring that buses and trains are equipped with features such as ramps, lifts, and accessible seating. However, the overall coverage and frequency of bus service in North Attleboro may not fully meet the needs of all residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited bus access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an increasingly popular alternative for transportation to healthcare appointments. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering a degree of convenience and flexibility. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Residents should factor in potential wait times and surge pricing when relying on these services for medical transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients 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 transportation. Companies like MedStar and others provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and comfortable transport. The cost of these services can vary, and may be covered by insurance depending on the individual's plan and medical necessity.

The overall health score for healthcare access in North Attleboro (02760) reflects a mixed picture. While the town benefits from its proximity to major medical centers in Providence and Boston, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. Drive times, traffic congestion, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all influence the ease with which residents can reach healthcare facilities.

For individuals considering moving to North Attleboro, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. The availability of a personal vehicle is a significant advantage. Residents who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the accessibility and reliability of available services. Planning for potential delays, considering the cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation, and researching the proximity of healthcare providers to their homes are all essential steps in ensuring adequate healthcare access.

The health score is further impacted by the geographical distribution of healthcare providers within and around North Attleboro. While Sturdy Memorial Hospital provides essential local services, residents may need to travel to specialized clinics or hospitals for specific treatments. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within the town is also a key factor. A well-distributed network of healthcare providers minimizes travel distances and improves access to timely medical care.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can positively influence the overall health score. Telehealth, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely via video or phone, can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups or follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services, coupled with the accessibility of reliable internet connectivity, can enhance healthcare access for residents of North Attleboro.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in North Attleboro (02760) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the town's location provides access to major medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. Careful planning, consideration of available transportation options, and awareness of the geographical distribution of healthcare providers are essential for residents to ensure adequate access to medical care. For those moving to North Attleboro, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.