02872, Prudence Island, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02872, Prudence Island, Rhode Island is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 02872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 8.11 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02872

Nestled in the heart of Narragansett Bay, ZIP code 02872 encompasses the tranquil beauty of Prudence Island, a haven of natural splendor. However, its remote location presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access, especially for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis explores the transportation landscape for individuals residing in 02872, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease and efficiency of accessing essential medical services. This score considers factors like drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the journey from diagnosis to treatment.

The very essence of Prudence Island's allure – its isolation – becomes a significant hurdle when considering healthcare access. Residents are entirely dependent on ferry services to reach the mainland, the first step in any medical journey. The Prudence Island Ferry, a lifeline for the community, operates from Bristol, Rhode Island. This initial ferry ride, approximately 20 minutes, is the crucial first leg of any commute. From Bristol, the transportation options diverge, each presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities.

**Driving the Distance:**

For those with the means and ability to drive, the journey from Bristol to healthcare facilities involves navigating a network of roads and highways. The primary route involves exiting the ferry terminal and heading north on Hope Street, which soon merges onto Route 114. This road is relatively straightforward, offering a scenic drive along the bay. However, traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours and weekends, potentially adding significant time to the commute.

From Route 114, the route continues to Route 195, a major interstate highway. This stretch can be a mixed bag, with potential for congestion depending on the time of day. Heading west on Route 195, the destination depends on the specific healthcare facility. For example, accessing the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a leading center for cancer care, involves exiting Route 195 onto Route 95 North. This final leg of the journey, although on a major highway, can still be subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hour.

The drive time to Rhode Island Hospital from the Prudence Island Ferry terminal, under ideal conditions, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour. However, this estimate doesn't account for potential delays due to traffic, ferry schedules, or unexpected road closures. Other healthcare facilities in the region, such as Women & Infants Hospital or various oncology centers in East Greenwich, will require different routes and, consequently, different drive times. This variability underscores the importance of considering the specific destination when assessing the overall transportation burden.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options for residents of 02872 are severely limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus services throughout the state, but its reach to Prudence Island is non-existent. The ferry, while essential, is not integrated into the RIPTA system, making it a separate entity. This lack of coordination presents a significant barrier for those who rely on public transportation.

For individuals who can access the ferry, the closest RIPTA bus routes would be in Bristol. From there, bus routes like the 60 or 61 could potentially connect to Providence, but this would involve multiple transfers and significantly extend the travel time. Furthermore, the accessibility of RIPTA buses for individuals with disabilities, while mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), can still be a concern. The availability of accessible routes and the reliability of elevators and ramps need to be considered.

The lack of robust public transit options significantly diminishes the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Prudence Island. The reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternatives limits healthcare access for those without these resources.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Costly Alternative:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Bristol area and can provide an alternative to driving. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, especially considering the distance from Prudence Island and the potential for multiple trips per week for treatment and appointments. The cost factor is a critical consideration, particularly for individuals facing financial burdens related to their illness.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing, and their availability in the Prudence Island area needs to be verified. The reliability and availability of medical transport services are crucial for ensuring timely access to care.

**Moving to Prudence Island: The Healthcare Access Trade-off:**

The decision to move to Prudence Island, with its undeniable charm, involves a trade-off. While the island offers a unique lifestyle and a sense of community, it comes with the inherent challenge of limited healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking specialized medical care.

For someone diagnosed with breast cancer, the transportation considerations become paramount. The frequency of appointments, the potential for side effects from treatment, and the need for emotional support all contribute to the overall burden of accessing healthcare. The lack of readily available public transportation and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can create significant financial and logistical challenges.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" for 02872:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of 02872 is moderately low. The reliance on ferry services, the limited public transit options, and the cost of alternative transportation methods all contribute to this score. While driving offers a relatively direct route to healthcare facilities, the potential for traffic delays and the need for a personal vehicle pose additional challenges.

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" would require addressing the transportation limitations. This could involve exploring partnerships between the Prudence Island Ferry and RIPTA to facilitate better integration with public transit. Subsidizing ride-sharing or medical transport services for cancer patients could also alleviate the financial burden. Furthermore, increasing the availability of telehealth services could reduce the need for frequent in-person appointments.

In conclusion, while Prudence Island offers a unique and appealing lifestyle, the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered, particularly for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding the intricacies of the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring that residents of 02872 can access the timely and comprehensive care they need. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing these challenges and striving to improve healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their location.