01349, Millers Falls, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01349, Millers Falls, Massachusetts is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.86 percent of residents in 01349 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baystate Franklin Medical Center with a distance of 5.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 01349

The picturesque town of Millers Falls, nestled within ZIP code 01349, offers a tranquil existence, yet its rurality presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. A critical component of effective treatment is timely and consistent access to medical professionals and facilities. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and accessibility considerations for residents of 01349, offering insights for anyone contemplating moving to Millers Falls or currently residing there.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a formal medical metric but rather a practical evaluation of the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access. Factors considered include proximity to specialized care, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the overall ease of navigating the region to reach medical appointments. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in seeking lung cancer treatment within and around 01349.

For residents of Millers Falls, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access will undoubtedly be personal vehicles. The town is relatively isolated, and public transportation options are limited. The nearest major medical centers are located in Greenfield, approximately 10 miles away, and Springfield, roughly 50 miles away. The drive to Greenfield typically takes around 20-30 minutes, primarily via **Route 2A** and then **Main Street**. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, potentially adding to the travel time.

Traveling to Springfield presents a more significant undertaking. The most direct route involves taking **Interstate 91 South**, a major north-south artery. The drive typically takes about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. This journey can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing treatment, as it involves a longer duration in a vehicle and potential exposure to traffic-related stress. The availability of parking at these medical facilities also needs consideration, as parking fees and availability can add to the overall burden.

Public transportation options in 01349 are sparse. The **Franklin Regional Transit Authority (FRTA)** provides limited bus service in the area. However, routes serving Millers Falls are infrequent and may not directly connect to major medical facilities. The FRTA route **41** might offer some connectivity, but it requires careful planning and potential transfers, significantly increasing travel time. Furthermore, the frequency of these routes, especially on weekends and evenings, is limited, potentially hindering access to appointments outside of regular business hours.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor when considering public transportation. The FRTA strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. Patients undergoing treatment often experience fatigue and other physical limitations, making the use of public transit a potentially difficult option.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 01349 area, though their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, they can be expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, adding a significant financial burden to the already considerable expenses associated with cancer treatment. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in a rural area like Millers Falls may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a more tailored solution for patients needing assistance. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services come at a premium cost and may require pre-booking, making them less readily available for urgent or unexpected medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **LogistiCare** are among the providers that might serve the area, but their specific coverage and availability should be verified.

For individuals considering moving to Millers Falls, understanding the transportation landscape is vital. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the distance to specialized healthcare facilities and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration. Potential residents should factor in the time commitment, financial implications, and potential stress associated with traveling to and from medical appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 01349 reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services. The distance to major medical centers, particularly those specializing in oncology, necessitates long travel times, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care.

The score is not meant to discourage anyone from moving to Millers Falls. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. For those considering a move, a thorough assessment of their individual needs, including the frequency of medical appointments and the availability of support networks, is crucial.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 01349 would be moderate, reflecting the need for careful planning and reliance on personal transportation. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the transportation limitations necessitate proactive strategies for healthcare access. The score can be improved by advocating for increased public transportation options, exploring financial assistance for transportation costs, and fostering community support networks to assist with transportation needs.

In conclusion, while Millers Falls offers a desirable living environment, the practicalities of transportation for healthcare access, particularly for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment, require careful consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present challenges. By understanding these factors and proactively planning for healthcare access, residents of 01349 can navigate the transportation landscape and receive the necessary medical care.