02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02791, Westport Point, Massachusetts is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.12 percent of residents in 02791 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Anne's Hospital with a distance of 12.95 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02791 (Westport Point, MA)**

The tranquility of Westport Point, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02791), with its coastal charm and close-knit community, often masks a critical consideration: access to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to Westport Point or navigating a health crisis.

The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive assessment, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities surrounding transportation and healthcare access. It highlights the practical realities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support services, vital for anyone facing the emotional and physical toll of breast cancer.

**The Road Ahead: Driving and the Highway Network**

For residents of Westport Point, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The journey, however, is not always straightforward. The town's relative isolation necessitates travel to larger population centers for specialized medical care.

The most direct route to major healthcare providers in the region involves navigating the local road network, initially relying on roads like Main Road and Drift Road, which meander through the scenic landscapes of Westport. These roads, while charming, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours or tourist seasons.

The next step typically involves merging onto Route 88, a critical artery connecting Westport to Fall River and beyond. Route 88 offers a more direct, albeit still potentially congested, route to hospitals and medical centers. The drive time from Westport Point to Fall River, the nearest city with significant healthcare infrastructure, can range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Further afield, access to more specialized care may necessitate travel to Providence, Rhode Island, or Boston, Massachusetts. These journeys involve utilizing major highways. The most common route to Providence involves taking Route 88 to Route 195 East, a major interstate. The drive to Providence can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

For Boston-bound journeys, the route involves taking Route 88 to Route 195 East, then connecting to I-95 North. This trip can be a considerable undertaking, potentially lasting over an hour and a half, depending on traffic, especially during rush hour. This extended travel time significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it adds to the stress and fatigue associated with appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Westport Point are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the area, but the routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs.

The primary SRTA routes serving the Westport area are the Route 10 (Fall River – Westport – Dartmouth) and Route 11 (Fall River – Westport – Padanaram). These routes can provide access to Fall River, where connections to other services may be available. However, the frequency of these buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, is limited, and the travel times are considerably longer than driving.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration. SRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limitations of public transit, including the potential for long wait times and transfers, can create added stress for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The reliance on public transportation significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those requiring frequent appointments or treatments. The lack of direct routes to major healthcare facilities and the potential for delays can exacerbate the challenges of managing a serious illness.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating Alternatives**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Westport Point area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a specialized option for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate wheelchairs and other medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services improves the Breast Cancer Score, offering alternatives for those unable to drive or use public transit. However, the cost and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Access: The Critical Component**

The ultimate goal of assessing transportation is to understand its impact on healthcare access. The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care in the region is a crucial factor.

Fall River, the closest city with significant healthcare infrastructure, offers several hospitals and medical centers, including Saint Anne’s Hospital and Charlton Memorial Hospital. These facilities provide a range of services, including mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

For more specialized care, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, residents may need to travel to Providence or Boston. This necessitates the longer travel times discussed earlier, impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score is negatively affected by the need to travel outside of Westport Point for specialized care. The longer the travel time, the more challenging it becomes to manage appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

**Moving to Westport Point: A Balanced Perspective**

For those considering moving to Westport Point, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. While the town offers a tranquil and desirable lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access must be carefully weighed.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of having access to a reliable vehicle or alternative transportation options. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation assistance is also a significant factor.

Before moving to Westport Point, prospective residents should research the healthcare facilities in the region and assess their transportation needs. They should also consider the availability of support services, such as support groups and patient navigators, to help navigate the healthcare system.

**Conclusion: A Call for Awareness**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 02791 reflects a complex reality. While Westport Point offers a desirable quality of life, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be acknowledged. The score is not a definitive judgment but a call for awareness, urging residents and prospective movers to carefully consider their healthcare needs and the transportation options available. Improving access to healthcare, through enhanced public transit, ride-sharing initiatives, or community-based support programs, would significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score and enhance the well-being of all residents.