02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.92 percent of residents in 02637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 3.54 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Cummaquid, MA (ZIP Code 02637)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, extends far beyond the walls of a clinic. It encompasses the practicalities of transportation, the availability of resources, and the overall ease of access to vital medical care. This report examines the landscape of healthcare access for individuals residing in Cummaquid, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02637), focusing on the critical aspect of transportation. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within this community. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in the area.

Cummaquid, a charming village within Barnstable, Massachusetts, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area is characterized by its seasonal population fluctuations, limited public transit infrastructure, and reliance on personal vehicles. For individuals battling breast cancer, these factors can significantly impact their ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. This analysis will help those considering moving to Cummaquid and those already residing there understand the practical realities of accessing healthcare, particularly concerning breast cancer treatment.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Cummaquid are Route 6A, a scenic coastal road, and Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway. Route 6A offers a more leisurely pace, winding through picturesque villages, while Route 6 provides a faster, though often congested, route to larger towns and medical facilities. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic, especially during the peak summer months.

The nearest major medical centers equipped to handle comprehensive breast cancer care are located in Hyannis and Yarmouth. Driving to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis from Cummaquid typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 6A or Route 6. The drive to the Yarmouth area, where additional medical practices and imaging centers are available, is often a slightly shorter trip, taking approximately 10 to 25 minutes. These drive times, while manageable, can become a significant burden for individuals undergoing frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or for those experiencing mobility limitations.

Parking availability at these medical facilities is generally adequate, but during peak hours, finding a convenient spot can be challenging. This is especially true for patients with mobility issues or those accompanied by caregivers. The condition of the roads is generally good, but winter weather, including snow and ice, can present additional hazards, potentially delaying or disrupting transportation.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Cummaquid and the surrounding areas is limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus services, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The CCRTA's Route 13, for example, travels along Route 6A, offering a potential connection to Hyannis, but the schedule is limited, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. CCRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit can be a barrier for some patients. For those needing to reach appointments, the reliance on public transportation may require careful planning and potentially extended travel times, adding to the stress of their healthcare journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cummaquid area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can pose a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a financial burden, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the Cape Cod area, providing specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, ensuring patients are safely transported to their appointments. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment**

Based on the factors described above, the Breast Cancer Score for Cummaquid, MA (ZIP code 02637) reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to medical facilities are generally reasonable, the limitations in public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

The score is negatively impacted by the limited public transportation options and the potential for traffic delays, especially during the summer months. The reliance on personal vehicles can be a challenge for those who cannot drive or who lack access to a vehicle. The availability of ride-sharing services, while present, is not always reliable.

The score is positively influenced by the proximity of medical facilities, the availability of medical transport services, and the ADA accessibility of the CCRTA buses. The overall accessibility of the area for those moving to Cummaquid is somewhat limited.

**Recommendations**

To improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients in Cummaquid, several steps could be taken. Expanding the CCRTA bus routes and increasing the frequency of service, particularly to medical facilities, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also help. Furthermore, increasing awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance to those who need them would be a valuable step.

For those considering moving to Cummaquid, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and access to medical care. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the healthcare landscape presents certain challenges. Careful planning and consideration of transportation options are essential for ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care. Understanding the transportation options is a critical aspect of making an informed decision. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not solely about the availability of medical professionals, but also about the ability of patients to reach them.