Gail,

I too thought the RIDE was available to Mass. residents, but that doesn't really make sense so I checked my information before posting:

" THE RIDE is also available to ADA certified out-of-area and/or out-of-state travelers visiting the area. Some documentation is required. Visitors, please make advanced arrangements by calling (800) 533-6282 in-state toll free or (617) 222-5123 or TTY (617) 222-5415."

So, it seems to me if the OP's husband's medical doctors think he'll need help, they can certify him disabled for a short-term number of weeks/months. Maybe I'm not reading this correctly but it's the MBTA that determines your eligibility, so it would depend on the opinion of health professionals.

Though it seems clear to me that if you are already ADA certified, you can sign up and use the RIDE when in Mass. Do you read this differently?

As far as where to look for rentals, Beacon Hill is best because you can walk to MGH. But Back Bay, North End, South Boston, Charlestown, Financial District/Waterfront, Fenway/Kenmore Sq would work too. Cambridge would also be great, as it would only be a couple of stops on the red line to MGH.

Boston is a small city so many neighborhoods will work, just make sure you're close to a T stop.

cw - I certainly am not going to argue with the website. As a rehab RN I have never heard of "ADA certification" - since ADA means "Americans with Disabilities Act" and is not a certifcation of disability - but who knows - maybe some states use it in that way.

The actual form asks for specific mobility limitations, a Massachusetts address, why one can not used a "fixed" regular bus, subway, train route. It needs to be signed by a health professional and the applicant - it then goes to RMV and somebody there makes a determination, with the applicant signing permission for RMV to get medical records if necessary. In my experience it takes 2-8 weeks to be approved.

The questions are very specific to applicant's ability to stand, how far they can walk, etc. It is far more than just sign off as disabled and get a ride from THE RIDE. OP indicated husband should be feeling well and public transit would not be an issue.

You people are just great..so much helpful info!

It's good to know the specific areas around the hospital. We agree being close would be the best but good to know overall what areas would work. It's so hard to figure this all out on your own when you are not familiar with the city.

We are now thinking of coming without the car since it is such a problem for parking and we probably don't really need it. It will seem strange as where we live in rural Central NY we are totally dependant on it! City living will certainly be a new experience!!

We would not need the RIDE. DH is not disabled in any way. It sounds like a nice option for those who need it.

I have been checking the places mentioned on the MGH website. Seems several are called "corporate" (seems expensive), don't have prices listed...not too much information. I plan to call some of those listed to get a better idea of price and location. At least now.. thanks to all of you... I have a much better idea where to look.

Good luck katybird. If you need any opinions of locations, don't hesitate to post.

I included the information on the RIDE not because you said you would need it, but as an "in case" alternative. Also because it may be helpful to others.

I don't know anything about corporate rentals but perhaps in this economic climate they may be more willing to negotiate on their prices. Never hurts to ask!

Echoing cw, the very best of luck to you and do post with any questions about locations.

And, I'm glad to hear you are leaning toward not bringing your car. It will certainly be different for you coming from rural NY, but having lived in Boston for many years I can attest to the challenges of having a vehicle in the city.

With necessities located within walking distance of your housing - a grocer, pharmacy, coffee shop or cafe, etc. - you will find it pleasant to not be thinking about a car. And public transportation or taxis will take you further - wherever you need or want to go.

Don't neglect to mention why you are seeking housing when you start making phone calls. The MGH guide directs you to ask for an "MGH rate" and it certainly can't hurt to mention the reason for your stay to any other management companies or realty firms you approach. You can never tell when someone might do something nice by way of reducing the rent, or refer you to another property that might suit you.

Again, the very best of luck to you and your husband.

In my responses I should have added - I wish your husband positive outcome from his treatment.

You might also look into Zipcar (they have a website) which is an hourly rental car service - you pre-register as a user, then when you want a car you sign up on-line for a specific period of time. Great option for a day trip, use every few weeks to stock up on supplies at a larger market than available in area of rental. This is a company which has these rentals in a number of large cities and some college campuses - often cheaper and more convenient than renting a car for an occasional day.

Now you can look into some activites during your stay in Boston - lots of posts here. Many museums have one free evening/week. I just took a North End (Italian section) 3 hour walking market tour - not too far from MGH and might be something you might do during a day when DH is undergoing treatment.

Welcome as a temporary resident to our city - there are several of us who regularly post here who live in and around Boston who can answer any questions you post here.

Thanks so much for all the answers and tips. We are checking out our insurance coverage right now so I hope all my research has not been for nothing. My husband thought I was crazy to post and couldn't believe the amount of help we have received. I knew you guys would come through and I am eternally grateful!

When members of the Saudi Royal family come for treatment at MGH, they usually take the top floors of the Taj (formerly and still the "real" Ritz Carlton). Perhaps they would have a couple of rooms they don't need.

I hope you can use this little attempt at humor! You have gotten a lot of good advice, but it is hard to make these decisions. You really won't need a car, and you really should stay in the city (Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Somerville). The hospital recommended housing is probably best, but you might connect with the housing offices at BU, Harvard, and Tufts and their hospitals. They maintain lists for visiting faculty.

Hi, We have a 1 bedroom fully furnished apartment within a 15 min walk of the hospital (apx 1 mile) for under $2000 including all utilities.We are the owners not a realty company.Hope everything goes well at MGH .it is a world class hospital and the staff are fantastic.

Fourth year medical students have to travel for rotations in other cities, so they are always subletting their places for a month or two at a time. DD just finished a year of this nomadic life. Her apartment would have been perfect for you, but she moves out May 31.

You might look on Harvard Med bulletin boards and on-line to see if you can find listings.

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