02882, Narragansett, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02882, Narragansett, Rhode Island is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.89 percent of residents in 02882 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South County Hospital Inc with a distance of 2.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Narragansett (02882)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not just the medical expertise of physicians and the availability of treatment, but also the accessibility of those services. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Narragansett, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02882), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Narragansett, especially those with pre-existing conditions or a family history of breast cancer.

The score considers various factors, including drive times to major healthcare facilities, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the logistical challenges and advantages individuals face when seeking breast cancer care within and beyond the 02882 zip code.

**The Geography of Care:**

Narragansett, a coastal community, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and relative isolation. While this contributes to its charm, it also presents challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The closest major hospitals equipped for comprehensive cancer care are located in Providence, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away by car, depending on traffic.

**Driving Directions and Roadways:**

For residents of Narragansett, the primary routes to Providence involve navigating a combination of state and interstate highways. The most direct route typically involves heading north on **US Route 1** (also known as the Boston Post Road), a scenic but often congested road, particularly during peak hours and summer weekends. This route then merges onto **I-95 North**, the major interstate highway that provides access to Providence and its medical centers.

Another option involves taking **Ocean Road** to **Kingstown Road**, then connecting to **Route 138 East**, eventually reaching **I-95 North**. This route offers a slightly different perspective and can be less congested at certain times. However, it may add a few minutes to the total travel time.

Traffic conditions are a significant variable. Rush hour, weekend traffic, and seasonal influxes of tourists can significantly extend drive times. Therefore, residents should always factor in extra time when planning appointments, especially for treatments that require precise scheduling.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Narragansett are limited, which impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for frequent medical appointments.

The **64 bus route** provides service from Narragansett to Providence, but the trip can take over an hour, depending on the time of day and transfers. While RIPTA buses are generally ADA accessible, relying solely on public transportation for cancer treatment can be challenging due to the need for frequent appointments, potential side effects of treatment, and the physical demands of travel. This makes the Breast Cancer Score lower for those who depend on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Narragansett, offering a more convenient alternative to public transportation. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips. Furthermore, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more tailored approach to patient transport. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or other needs. They often provide door-to-door service and can be scheduled in advance. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation**, **CareRide**, and **American Medical Response** are examples of medical transport providers that serve the Narragansett area. These services are often covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, or offer affordable rates, making healthcare access more manageable.

**Breast Cancer Score Breakdown:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Narragansett (02882) is moderate. While the drive times to major hospitals are reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services, combined with limited public transportation options, creates potential barriers to healthcare access.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. 30-45 minutes to Providence hospitals.
* **Public Transportation:** Low. Limited routes and frequency.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate. Availability and cost are variable.
* **Medical Transportation:** Moderate. Available but requires planning and may have limited coverage.
* **Overall Score:** Moderate.

**Impact on Moving Decisions:**

For individuals considering moving to Narragansett, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or a family history of the disease, the Breast Cancer Score should be a key consideration. It is essential to factor in the potential for increased travel time and expenses when planning healthcare appointments.

It is recommended that prospective residents research their insurance coverage for transportation benefits, explore medical transportation options in advance, and familiarize themselves with the RIPTA bus routes.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Narragansett requires careful planning and an understanding of the available transportation options. While the area offers access to quality medical care, the logistical challenges of reaching those services should be carefully considered. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of evaluating these factors when making decisions about where to live and how to access the healthcare you need. This information is vital for anyone contemplating moving to Narragansett, ensuring they can make an informed decision about their health and well-being.