02837, Little Compton, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02837, Little Compton, Rhode Island is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.99 percent of residents in 02837 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 6.93 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02837**

The quaint coastal community of Little Compton, Rhode Island, ZIP code 02837, beckons with its historic charm and serene landscapes. However, for those considering a move, especially individuals concerned about healthcare access, a crucial factor emerges: the Breast Cancer Score. This score assesses the ease of accessing breast cancer screening and treatment, factoring in transportation options, drive times, and the availability of specialized medical facilities. Understanding this score is paramount for informed decision-making, ensuring that healthcare needs are readily met within a reasonable commute.

The Breast Cancer Score for 02837 is influenced by the geographical reality of Little Compton's location. Situated in the southeastern corner of Rhode Island, it is somewhat isolated, bordered by the Sakonnet River and the Massachusetts border. This remoteness impacts transportation options and, consequently, the time it takes to reach essential healthcare services. The score considers the proximity of hospitals, cancer centers, and imaging facilities, along with the accessibility of various transportation modes.

**Navigating the Roads: Drive Times and Highways**

For residents of 02837, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The drive times to facilities offering breast cancer services are a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. The most direct route to larger hospitals and cancer centers involves navigating a combination of local roads and highways.

A typical journey might begin on Main Road, the central artery of Little Compton. This road then connects to Route 77, which winds its way north, eventually leading to the larger roadways. Depending on the destination, travelers might merge onto Route 24 in Massachusetts or continue on Route 77 to access hospitals in the Tiverton and Fall River areas.

The drive to Newport Hospital, a potential destination for some residents, involves a scenic route through Portsmouth and Middletown, taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route utilizes Route 77, then connects to the Newport Bridge (Route 138) for access to the city.

For more specialized care, such as comprehensive cancer treatment, residents might need to travel to facilities in Providence, Rhode Island, or even Boston, Massachusetts. The drive to Providence, using Route 24 and then I-195, can take around an hour, assuming favorable traffic conditions. The drive to Boston, a longer journey, might involve taking Route 24 and I-95 North, potentially taking upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic congestion.

These drive times are crucial factors in the Breast Cancer Score. Longer travel times can create barriers to timely screening and treatment, potentially impacting patient outcomes. The score will reflect the relative accessibility of different healthcare options based on these drive-time estimates.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 02837 are limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service in the area, but the routes and schedules may not be ideal for healthcare access. The primary bus route serving Little Compton is Route 60, which runs between Newport and Fall River. This route might offer some connectivity to healthcare facilities, but the frequency of service and potential for multiple transfers could significantly extend travel times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features are generally incorporated into RIPTA buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and potential for lengthy travel times may still pose challenges for those needing to access breast cancer services. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the limitations of public transit in the area, acknowledging the potential for increased travel times and the need for reliance on alternative transportation methods.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 02837 area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or in areas with limited demand could increase costs. The Breast Cancer Score considers the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing as a potential transportation option.

Medical transportation services also play a vital role in healthcare access. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation offer door-to-door service for individuals who may have difficulty driving or using public transit. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the availability and cost-effectiveness of medical transportation services in the area, recognizing their importance in ensuring access to care.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Rhode Island and Massachusetts areas. These include, but are not limited to, First Medical Transportation, Medical Transportation Services, and Access Medical Transportation. These companies provide a range of services, from basic transportation to specialized medical transport.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for 02837 is not simply a numerical value; it represents a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. It considers the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and the overall cost of accessing care.

The score also takes into account the availability of breast cancer screening services, such as mammograms and ultrasounds, within a reasonable distance. The presence of accredited cancer centers and the availability of specialized treatment options are also factored into the assessment.

For individuals considering moving to Little Compton, the Breast Cancer Score provides valuable insights into the ease of accessing breast cancer services. It helps prospective residents understand the transportation challenges they might face and the importance of planning for their healthcare needs.

**Moving to Little Compton: Informed Decision-Making**

The Breast Cancer Score is not meant to discourage anyone from moving to Little Compton. Instead, it aims to empower individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions. By understanding the transportation challenges and healthcare access options, potential residents can proactively plan for their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the services they require.

Individuals considering a move to 02837 should research the specific healthcare facilities in the area, assess their transportation needs, and explore the available options. They should also consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. It highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive decision-making, ensuring that residents of Little Compton can receive the timely and effective breast cancer care they deserve. The score underscores the value of community resources, the importance of early detection, and the critical role of accessible transportation in the fight against breast cancer.