02910, Cranston, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02910, Cranston, Rhode Island is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.64 percent of residents in 02910 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Women & Infants Hospital Of Rhode Island with a distance of 2.50 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cranston, RI (ZIP Code 02910)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when battling a disease like breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves more than just the medical expertise of oncologists and surgeons; it encompasses the ease and accessibility of **transportation** to and from appointments, treatments, and support services. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Cranston, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02910), considering the various **transportation** options available and their impact on **healthcare access**. It is designed to inform those already living in the area and those considering **moving to Cranston**, particularly those concerned about breast cancer care.

Our score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the logistical landscape. The goal is to provide a practical understanding of the challenges and advantages faced by individuals seeking breast cancer care in this specific geographic area.

Cranston, Rhode Island, presents a unique set of **transportation** challenges and opportunities. Situated just west of Providence, the city offers a blend of suburban living with convenient access to urban amenities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options all influence **healthcare access** for those in need.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Arteries of Care**

The primary arteries for navigating Cranston and accessing **healthcare access** are the major highways and roads. Route 10, a critical north-south artery, provides direct access to the Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital, both located in Providence. Expect drive times of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is the most direct route for many Cranston residents.

Interstate 95, another vital thoroughfare, offers a faster, albeit potentially congested, route to Providence. During peak hours, traffic can significantly increase travel times, potentially adding 30 minutes or more to the journey. The proximity to Providence is a definite advantage, but the reliance on these highways can be a double-edged sword.

Smaller roads, such as Reservoir Avenue and Cranston Street, offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and subject to more traffic lights and congestion. These roads can be useful for accessing local clinics and medical offices within Cranston, but they are less efficient for reaching the major hospitals in Providence.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides public transit service in Cranston. Several bus routes serve the area, including routes 1, 20, 21, and 28, offering connections to Providence and other surrounding communities. However, the frequency of these buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

The routes, while offering some degree of **healthcare access**, are not always ideal for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The need to transfer between buses, the potential for long wait times, and the physical demands of navigating public transit can be challenging for individuals experiencing fatigue, nausea, or mobility issues.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration. RIPTA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can vary.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services are readily available in Cranston and can provide door-to-door **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with **healthcare access** needs, offer specialized assistance. These services often provide door-to-door service with trained personnel and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Companies like First Transit and Logisticare operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical **transportation**. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, we assign a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 02910. This score is a subjective assessment, reflecting the overall ease and accessibility of navigating the **transportation** landscape for breast cancer patients.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While proximity to Providence is a benefit, reliance on highways and potential traffic congestion can impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. RIPTA offers some service, but frequency, accessibility, and the physical demands of using public transit pose challenges.
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transport:** Moderate to Good. Uber, Lyft, and medical transport services offer viable alternatives, but cost and availability can vary.

**Overall Score: A "C+"**

The "C+" score reflects the mixed bag of **transportation** options available in Cranston. While the proximity to Providence and the availability of ride-sharing services are positive factors, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges. The score suggests that individuals **moving to Cranston** or already residing there should carefully consider their **transportation** needs when planning for breast cancer care.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients in Cranston, several improvements could be considered. Increased frequency and expanded routes for RIPTA buses, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, would benefit those relying on public transit. Subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical transport providers could help mitigate the cost burden for patients. Finally, improved traffic management on major highways, such as Route 10 and I-95, would reduce travel times and improve overall **transportation** efficiency.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The journey through breast cancer treatment is arduous, and the ability to access timely and reliable **transportation** is crucial. For residents of Cranston, RI (ZIP Code 02910), the landscape presents a mix of advantages and challenges. Understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, is essential for navigating the complexities of **healthcare access**. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this "Breast Cancer Score," individuals can make informed decisions about their **transportation** needs and ensure they receive the care they deserve.