02743, Acushnet, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02743, Acushnet, Massachusetts is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.43 percent of residents in 02743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 12.55 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02743 (Acushnet, MA)**

The journey to comprehensive breast cancer care is a critical factor in survival and quality of life. For residents of Acushnet, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02743), the ability to access timely and effective treatment hinges on a complex interplay of transportation options. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a nuanced perspective for those navigating their healthcare journey. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Acushnet and evaluating their healthcare access.

Acushnet, a charming New England town, is geographically positioned with its own unique transportation challenges. While the town itself is relatively small, access to specialized breast cancer care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in neighboring cities. The Breast Cancer Score aims to illuminate the realities of this commute, providing a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities for patients.

**Drive Times: The Road Ahead**

The primary arteries for automobile travel in and out of Acushnet are Route 6 and Route 140. Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides a direct route to New Bedford, the nearest city with significant medical facilities. The drive to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, a key provider of breast cancer services, typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. This is generally considered a manageable commute, offering a reasonable timeframe for appointments and treatments.

Further afield, the drive to major medical centers in Fall River, such as Charlton Memorial Hospital, involves navigating Route 195. This journey can range from 20 to 40 minutes, influenced by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The distance to Providence, Rhode Island, which offers specialized cancer centers, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, requiring travel on Route 195 and Interstate 95.

The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the importance of considering peak traffic times. Rush hour can significantly extend travel durations, impacting appointment schedules and potentially increasing patient stress. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a crucial consideration, as limited parking can add to the overall burden of accessing care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation in Acushnet, while present, is limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but routes within Acushnet are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. The primary bus route serving Acushnet is the Route 9, which connects to New Bedford.

The Route 9 bus, while offering a potential transportation option, may require transfers to reach specific medical centers. This adds to the overall travel time and complexity. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. SRTA buses are generally ADA-compliant, equipped with ramps and other features to ensure accessibility. However, the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times between transfers can pose significant challenges for patients undergoing treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score recognizes the limitations of public transit in this area. The infrequent service and the need for transfers can make it a less desirable option for many patients, particularly those undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing fatigue. This is an important consideration for anyone moving to Acushnet.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options and Availability**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. While ride-sharing can provide door-to-door service, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services are also available in the area, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often covered by insurance, but require prior authorization and scheduling.

The Breast Cancer Score evaluates the accessibility and affordability of these ride-sharing and medical transport options. The cost, availability, and reliability of these services are crucial factors in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare. This is particularly important for patients who are unable to drive or who require assistance with mobility.

**The Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 02743 considers all these factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. The score reflects the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall impact on patient experience.

The score acknowledges that access to healthcare is not just about distance; it is about the ease, affordability, and reliability of transportation. It considers the impact of traffic, the frequency of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services.

This analysis is crucial for residents of Acushnet, especially those diagnosed with breast cancer, and for anyone considering moving to the area. It provides valuable information for making informed decisions about healthcare access and planning for treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. It is a tool to help patients navigate the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. The score helps to highlight the need for accessible and affordable transportation options, ensuring that all residents of Acushnet have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care.