02738, Marion, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02738, Marion, Massachusetts is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.63 percent of residents in 02738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 19.93 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Marion, MA (ZIP Code 02738)**

Moving to Marion, Massachusetts, a picturesque coastal town, offers a lifestyle steeped in history and natural beauty. However, when considering a move, particularly for those with health concerns, understanding the nuances of healthcare access becomes paramount. This report provides a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation accessibility to essential breast cancer healthcare services for residents of ZIP code 02738. It aims to illuminate the realities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support, shaping a more informed decision for potential residents.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't a numerical value; it's an evaluation of the challenges and opportunities presented by Marion's location. The score considers drive times, public transportation options, and ride-sharing services, ultimately painting a picture of the ease or difficulty in accessing vital healthcare. This analysis is critical for anyone considering relocating, especially those with a history of breast cancer or at higher risk.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of Marion, the automobile remains a primary mode of transportation. Assessing drive times to healthcare facilities is crucial. The primary route to access comprehensive breast cancer care often involves navigating the roadways.

The journey to major healthcare providers typically begins on Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare. Depending on the specific destination, this route can be efficient, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak commuting hours. From Route 6, access to Interstate 195 (I-195) becomes essential for reaching facilities in New Bedford and Fall River, which often house specialized cancer centers and treatment facilities.

Drive times to these locations fluctuate. A trip to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, a common destination for cancer care, could take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Reaching major hospitals in Fall River, such as Charlton Memorial Hospital, might require a 30-45 minute drive, also contingent on traffic conditions. These times represent the baseline, and unforeseen circumstances like accidents or construction can significantly extend travel durations.

Beyond these larger hospitals, smaller clinics and specialized centers may be available. These facilities could be closer, offering shorter drive times. However, it's crucial to verify the scope of services offered at these locations. For comprehensive breast cancer care, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, patients often need to access larger facilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Marion are limited, a factor that significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the region, but its routes within Marion are infrequent, and connections to major medical centers are not direct.

SRTA Route 10, for example, offers service along Route 6, potentially connecting to some healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these buses is typically hourly or less, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving due to multiple stops. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial. SRTA does provide ADA-accessible buses, but riders must confirm availability and schedule in advance.

For individuals with mobility limitations, relying solely on public transportation presents significant challenges. The need to transfer between buses, navigate long travel times, and potentially wait in inclement weather can be burdensome, particularly for those undergoing cancer treatment. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. The availability of these services in Marion is generally good, but prices can fluctuate based on demand, and availability may be limited during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing transportation to medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing door-to-door service with trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate mobility needs. These services can be booked in advance, providing a reliable option for scheduled appointments.

However, medical transportation services often come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. This cost, combined with the potential for insurance coverage limitations, is a critical factor to consider. The Breast Cancer Score must reflect the financial implications of these options, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access: A Synthesis**

The Breast Cancer Score for Marion, MA (02738) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major highways offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities by car, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing services create challenges.

For individuals who can drive, healthcare access is generally manageable, though traffic and travel times must be factored in. For those who cannot drive, or prefer not to, the reliance on infrequent public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transportation introduces significant barriers. These barriers include longer travel times, higher costs, and potential limitations in availability.

**Conclusion: Informed Decisions and Strategic Planning**

The Breast Cancer Score for Marion highlights the importance of careful planning for individuals considering moving to the area, especially those with existing health concerns or a family history of breast cancer. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the healthcare facilities available in the region, including their proximity, the services offered, and the insurance plans accepted.

Understanding the transportation options and their associated costs is equally critical. Individuals should assess their ability to drive, the reliability of public transportation, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score encourages prospective residents to proactively address their healthcare needs. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about moving to Marion and ensure they can access the necessary care and support. This proactive approach is essential for navigating the healthcare landscape and maintaining a high quality of life, particularly for those facing the challenges of breast cancer.