02864, Cumberland, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02864, Cumberland, Rhode Island is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.71 percent of residents in 02864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Landmark Medical Center with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cumberland, RI (ZIP Code 02864)

The journey to healthcare, especially when facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires reliable transportation, a crucial component of **healthcare access**, impacting treatment adherence and overall well-being. This analysis examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding Cumberland, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02864), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to assess the ease and practicality of reaching essential medical facilities. This information is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Cumberland**, seeking to understand the logistical realities of their healthcare needs.

Cumberland, a town steeped in New England charm, presents a diverse transportation profile. While the area boasts a suburban feel, proximity to Providence and its associated medical resources offers both advantages and challenges. Our "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries connecting Cumberland to major healthcare providers are Interstate 295 (I-295) and Route 146. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience significant congestion during peak hours, particularly on I-295 south towards Providence and Route 146 south.

Reaching Rhode Island Hospital, a major cancer treatment center, typically involves a drive of 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey usually begins on I-295 south, merging onto I-95 south, and exiting near the hospital complex. The Cancer Center at Rhode Island Hospital provides comprehensive services, making it a vital destination for many patients.

The Miriam Hospital, another prominent healthcare facility with cancer care capabilities, is also accessible via I-295 and I-95, with similar drive times. Smaller clinics and specialized practices within Providence may require navigating city streets, adding to the travel time and potentially increasing stress levels.

For those seeking treatment at Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, the drive is shorter, typically 10-20 minutes, primarily via Route 146 north. This option offers a more convenient alternative for certain services, reducing travel burden.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service within Cumberland and to surrounding areas. However, its routes are limited, and the frequency of service can be infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. This severely impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

Several RIPTA routes serve Cumberland, including the 28 (Mineral Spring Avenue), 29 (Smithfield Avenue), and 87 (Woonsocket/Providence). These routes offer connections to Providence, where patients can transfer to other routes to reach hospitals and medical centers. However, the travel time via public transit is significantly longer than driving, often exceeding an hour to reach Providence hospitals.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. RIPTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential for delays can create challenges for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Cumberland, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further exacerbate the financial burden.

Specialized medical transportation services provide dedicated support for patients requiring assistance. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility, and can accommodate medical equipment. Several companies operate in the area, including Access Medical Transportation and MedTrans. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve co-pays or fees not covered by all insurance plans.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Cumberland, RI (02864) reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from its proximity to Providence and its robust medical infrastructure, the transportation options present challenges.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. Driving is the most efficient option, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. RIPTA provides some service, but the routes are infrequent, and travel times are lengthy.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Available, but costly. Uber and Lyft offer convenient options, but the expense can be a barrier for frequent trips.
* **Medical Transportation:** Available, but requires planning. Specialized services offer dedicated support, but pre-booking and potential costs need to be considered.

**Overall Assessment:**

Cumberland's "Breast Cancer Score" is moderate. While access to excellent medical care is available, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. Individuals considering **moving to Cumberland** and those already residing there should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure reliable access to healthcare. Careful planning, including pre-booking transportation, understanding insurance coverage for medical transportation, and considering the potential impact of traffic, is crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape effectively. This score highlights the importance of considering transportation as a vital element of **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals managing the complexities of breast cancer treatment.