02715, Dighton, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02715, Dighton, Massachusetts is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.64 percent of residents in 02715 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 8.53 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02715 (Dighton, MA)**

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis hangs heavy, demanding immediate and consistent access to specialized medical care. For residents of Dighton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02715), this access is inextricably linked to the quality and efficiency of their transportation options. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the realities of commuting to vital healthcare services from this community, evaluating the available transportation infrastructure. It's a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Dighton, seeking to understand the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access.

Dighton, a town nestled in Bristol County, offers a tranquil suburban atmosphere. Yet, its relative isolation means residents often rely on personal vehicles for most errands, including medical appointments. Assessing the practicality of this reliance, and the availability of alternatives, is key to understanding the true healthcare access landscape.

**The Road Ahead: Driving to Care**

The primary arteries connecting Dighton to major medical centers are the highways. The most direct route often involves the Massachusetts Route 24, a limited-access highway. Driving south on Route 24 offers relatively swift passage to Fall River and its healthcare facilities, including Saint Anne's Hospital. The drive, typically clocking in at under 20 minutes during off-peak hours, becomes significantly more challenging during rush hour, potentially stretching to 45 minutes or more.

Heading north on Route 24 presents another option. This route leads to Taunton and eventually to Boston, where world-class hospitals such as Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital are located. However, the commute to Boston, even without traffic, is a minimum of an hour, and can easily double during peak travel times. The Massachusetts Route 138 provides a more local option, connecting Dighton to Taunton, but it's a slower, more congested route.

The condition of these roads, the potential for traffic delays, and the unpredictable nature of New England weather all contribute to the complexities of driving to healthcare. For individuals undergoing treatment, the stress of a long and potentially arduous commute can exacerbate their existing challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Dighton, unfortunately, is not a robust solution. The Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA) provides some bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules are limited, and direct service to major medical facilities is often unavailable.

The GATRA system, while striving to be ADA-compliant, may not always provide the most convenient or reliable option for those requiring frequent medical appointments. Bus stops may be a significant distance from homes, and the frequency of service may not align with the needs of patients undergoing treatment. While the GATRA system is improving, it is not a primary solution for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. These services provide on-demand rides, offering a degree of flexibility. However, the cost of these services can accumulate rapidly, especially for frequent appointments. Moreover, the availability of drivers in the Dighton area may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility challenges, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Companies such as Logisticare and MTM are active in the region, but their services often require pre-booking and may have limitations based on insurance coverage. The availability of these services can also be impacted by staffing shortages or high demand.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Breast Cancer Score for Dighton (ZIP Code 02715) reflects a mixed bag. While driving offers the most direct access to care, the reliance on personal vehicles introduces potential challenges related to traffic, weather, and the physical demands of driving while undergoing treatment. The limited public transportation options and the cost and availability constraints of ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering moving to Dighton, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and the availability of support systems. Understanding the commute times to various medical facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with these choices is crucial for making an informed decision.

The overall score for Dighton, in the context of breast cancer care, is moderate. While healthcare access is available, it is not easily accessible. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options create potential barriers for patients. The need for careful planning, proactive research, and the consideration of potential support networks is paramount for those navigating a breast cancer diagnosis in this community. The challenges underscore the importance of advocating for improved public transportation and expanded medical transport services to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents.