02131, Roslindale, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02131, Roslindale, Massachusetts is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.11 percent of residents in 02131 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Faulkner Hospital-Brigham And Women's with a distance of 1.27 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Roslindale (ZIP Code 02131)

The journey to comprehensive breast cancer care in Roslindale (ZIP Code 02131) is a complex one, a tapestry woven with threads of transportation, healthcare access, and the very fabric of community. For those considering moving to Roslindale, understanding this landscape is crucial. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing breast cancer-related healthcare services, focusing on the realities of getting there, not just the presence of facilities.

Roslindale, a charming Boston neighborhood, boasts a vibrant community and a desirable residential feel. However, the availability of specialized medical services within its borders is limited. This necessitates navigating the broader Boston metropolitan area, a task heavily reliant on effective transportation. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers this reality, evaluating the various modes of transport and their impact on a patient’s ability to access timely and appropriate care.

**The Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Roslindale is a composite, considering drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing options, and the availability of medical transportation services. It's a practical evaluation, acknowledging that the best score is not merely about proximity to a hospital, but about the ease with which a patient can actually *get* there.

**Driving: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those who prefer to drive, Roslindale offers several routes to major medical centers. The primary arteries are the **Arborway**, which connects to the **Jamaicaway** and the **Riverway**, providing access to Longwood Medical Area, home to renowned institutions like Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital. Drive times, however, are highly variable. During peak hours, traversing these roads can be a grueling experience, adding significant stress and time to the journey.

Heading north, the **VFW Parkway** and the **Centre Street** corridor offer access to other hospitals. The **Route 1** highway provides an alternative, though it is known for its heavy traffic. The time of day is critical. A trip that takes 20 minutes at 10 AM might balloon to 45 minutes or more during rush hour. Parking at these facilities is another consideration, often involving significant costs and potential delays.

**Public Transit: Navigating the 'T'**

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), or the "T," offers a crucial lifeline for many residents. The **MBTA Commuter Rail's Needham Line** has a station in Roslindale Village, offering a direct route to Back Bay Station and South Station. From these hubs, connections to the Green Line (for Longwood Medical Area) and the Red Line (for Massachusetts General Hospital) are readily available.

The **MBTA Bus Route 34** provides a direct connection to the Forest Hills Station on the Orange Line, which offers access to downtown Boston and other medical facilities. The **Route 39** bus runs through Roslindale, heading towards Copley Square and Back Bay, providing another option for connecting to the Green Line.

ADA accessibility is a key factor. While the Commuter Rail stations are generally accessible, bus routes vary. Checking the MBTA website for specific route and station accessibility is crucial. The T, while offering a cost-effective alternative, can be subject to delays and crowding, particularly during peak hours.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: The On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Roslindale. They offer a convenient, albeit often more expensive, alternative to driving or public transit. The ability to schedule rides in advance can be a significant advantage for appointments and treatments. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly impact costs.

Medical transportation services, such as Logisticare and various private companies, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transit due to physical limitations. They often provide door-to-door service and can be a lifeline for those undergoing treatment. However, availability and cost can vary.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Considerations**

While Roslindale itself doesn't have a major cancer center, the proximity to renowned institutions is a significant advantage. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Massachusetts General Hospital are all within a reasonable distance, offering comprehensive breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

When assessing the "Breast Cancer Score," it's important to consider the specific needs of the patient. Factors such as the stage of cancer, the type of treatment required, and the frequency of appointments will influence the optimal transportation strategy. Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy may find the reliability and convenience of ride-sharing or medical transport particularly valuable.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" for Roslindale**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Roslindale, considering the multifaceted nature of transportation and healthcare access, is a **moderate to good**. The neighborhood's proximity to world-class medical facilities is a major advantage. However, the reliance on navigating the complexities of Boston's transportation network, including variable drive times, potential public transit delays, and the cost of ride-sharing, necessitates careful planning and consideration.

For those considering moving to Roslindale, a proactive approach to understanding and utilizing the available transportation options is crucial. Researching the specific transportation needs of a breast cancer patient, including the accessibility of different routes and services, is essential for ensuring timely and efficient access to care. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive judgment, but rather a starting point for understanding the realities of healthcare access in Roslindale, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in navigating the journey to comprehensive breast cancer care.