02814, Chepachet, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02814, Chepachet, Rhode Island is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.67 percent of residents in 02814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 34.03 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Chepachet (ZIP Code 02814)

The serene, historic village of Chepachet, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02814), offers a tranquil escape, drawing those seeking a slower pace of life. However, when considering a move, especially for individuals with health concerns, understanding healthcare access becomes paramount. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Chepachet, evaluating the ease of reaching essential breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities. The score, though not a definitive number, reflects the complexity of accessing vital healthcare services, a crucial factor for any prospective resident.

For residents of Chepachet, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The primary arteries connecting the village to larger population centers and healthcare hubs are Route 44 (Putnam Pike) and Route 102 (Providence Pike). Route 44, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to Providence, while Route 102 heads south, connecting to Smithfield and eventually Providence. The drive times to major healthcare facilities are thus heavily influenced by traffic conditions, especially during peak commuting hours.

The nearest major hospital with comprehensive breast cancer services is Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. A drive along Route 44 to I-95 South, and then to the hospital, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. This time can easily extend to an hour or more during rush hour, potentially impacting the timely access to appointments and treatments. Further west, in the state of Connecticut, The Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven is an option, but the drive time is significantly longer, roughly an hour and a half, making it a less practical choice for routine care.

Public transportation options are limited in Chepachet. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily focus on connecting to Providence. Route 29, the most relevant, travels along Route 44, offering a connection to the Rhode Island Mall in Providence. However, this route is not designed for direct hospital access. The trip to Rhode Island Hospital using public transit could involve multiple transfers, potentially taking over two hours, making it an impractical solution for many, especially those undergoing treatment or requiring frequent appointments. Furthermore, while RIPTA strives to offer ADA-accessible buses, the reliance on multiple transfers and the extended travel times can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Chepachet area. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments could prove expensive and unreliable, especially for those with fixed incomes or limited resources. This factor adds a layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation, potentially creating barriers to timely care.

Medical transport services are another option, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive or utilize public transit. Several companies, such as MedStar and American Medical Response, offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can provide door-to-door transport to medical appointments, but they come at a cost, and advance booking is often required. The availability of these services, along with their affordability, is a crucial consideration for residents of Chepachet.

The Breast Cancer Score for Chepachet reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the proximity to Providence offers a reasonable drive time to major hospitals, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges. The lack of direct public transit routes to hospitals, coupled with the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing services, necessitates careful planning and consideration for those seeking breast cancer care.

For individuals considering moving to Chepachet, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The ability to drive, or access a reliable driver, becomes a significant factor. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transport services is also essential. Furthermore, researching the specific breast cancer services offered by hospitals in the Providence area, including appointment scheduling, support groups, and patient navigation programs, can help individuals make informed decisions.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't just about drive times; it’s about the overall ease and reliability of accessing vital healthcare. The score for Chepachet, while not a failing grade, highlights the need for careful consideration of transportation options and the potential impact on healthcare access. The beauty and tranquility of Chepachet are undeniable, but prospective residents must weigh these advantages against the realities of commuting to healthcare.

The development of better public transportation, particularly direct routes to healthcare facilities, would significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score for Chepachet. Increased availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, along with greater awareness of medical transport options, would also contribute to improved healthcare access. For those considering moving to Chepachet, thorough research and planning are crucial to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively. The journey to healthcare, for those seeking to call Chepachet home, requires careful navigation of the transportation landscape.