02532, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02532, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.22 percent of residents in 02532 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 12.34 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Buzzards Bay (ZIP Code 02532)

Considering a move to the charming coastal town of Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02532)? Beyond the picturesque harbors and inviting seaside air, a crucial factor in your decision-making process should be access to quality healthcare, especially concerning breast cancer screening and treatment. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, examining the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for residents of this vibrant community. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a realistic picture of what to expect when commuting to appointments and accessing vital medical services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is more than just a numerical value; it's an understanding of the challenges and advantages of navigating the healthcare system within a specific geographic area. For residents of Buzzards Bay, the score reflects the relative ease or difficulty of accessing breast cancer-related services, factoring in factors such as proximity to hospitals, availability of transportation, and the overall efficiency of the healthcare journey. This assessment aims to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The good news is that Buzzards Bay benefits from its location, offering relatively straightforward access to major healthcare facilities. The primary artery for travel is **Massachusetts Route 28**, which acts as a central corridor, connecting Buzzards Bay to surrounding towns and cities. Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers involves considering the potential for traffic, especially during peak hours.

To access the nearest major hospital with comprehensive cancer services, you will likely be driving to **Falmouth Hospital** in Falmouth. The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, which is generally manageable. The route involves taking Route 28 South.

Further afield, **St. Luke's Hospital** in New Bedford offers additional specialized cancer care. The drive there is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating Route 28 North and then connecting to **Interstate 195 East**.

**Public Transit Options:**

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation offers a viable, though potentially more time-consuming, alternative. The **Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA)** provides bus service in the region, including routes that connect Buzzards Bay to surrounding towns and cities. However, direct routes to major hospitals may be limited.

The most relevant route to consider is the **SRTA Route 11**, which travels through Buzzards Bay and provides connections to other routes that may take you closer to hospitals. However, it's crucial to note that these connections might involve transfers, increasing travel time.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration. SRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This is a critical factor for individuals undergoing treatment or with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Buzzards Bay. They offer a convenient, though potentially more expensive, option for transportation to medical appointments. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand, so it's advisable to schedule rides in advance, particularly for early morning appointments or those requiring specialized transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, are also available. Several companies, such as **Medicaid Transportation** and **First Transit**, operate in the area. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including helping passengers with mobility challenges. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and level of assistance required.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Buzzards Bay (ZIP Code 02532) leans towards a moderate level of healthcare access. While the area benefits from relatively accessible driving times to nearby hospitals, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a barrier for those without them. Public transit, while available, may require longer travel times and transfers. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options, but their availability and cost should be considered.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance, considering travel time and transportation options.
* **Explore Transportation Alternatives:** Investigate public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options to find the most convenient and cost-effective solutions.
* **Communicate with Healthcare Providers:** Discuss transportation needs with your healthcare providers, who may be able to offer assistance or recommendations.
* **Consider Proximity:** When choosing a healthcare provider, consider the proximity to your home and the ease of access via various transportation methods.
* **Advocate for Improvement:** Support initiatives that improve public transportation and expand access to medical transportation services.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Buzzards Bay offers a desirable lifestyle, but it's essential to understand the healthcare landscape. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for assessing the accessibility of breast cancer-related services, helping you make informed decisions about your health and well-being. By carefully considering the transportation options available and planning accordingly, residents can effectively navigate the healthcare system and prioritize their health. This detailed analysis, considering transportation access, is crucial when moving to Buzzards Bay.