01354, Gill, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01354, Gill, Massachusetts is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.66 percent of residents in 01354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baystate Franklin Medical Center with a distance of 6.14 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 01354

The crisp air of western Massachusetts, particularly within ZIP Code 01354 (the heart of Gill), belies a crucial challenge: healthcare access, especially for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities, forming the foundation for a "Lung Cancer Score" – a metric assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. Considering the emotional and physical toll of a lung cancer diagnosis, understanding transportation options becomes paramount.

The very act of *moving to Gill*, or residing there, necessitates a realistic appraisal of available transportation. The rugged beauty of the region, with its rolling hills and winding roads, presents both charm and potential hurdles. For individuals confronting lung cancer, the ability to efficiently and reliably reach appointments, treatments, and support services can significantly impact their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

Driving remains a primary mode of *transportation* in this area. Residents rely on a network of roads, including Route 2, a major east-west artery, and Route 63, which snakes north and south. The drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 2. This relatively short commute is a positive factor in our Lung Cancer Score. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can extend this travel time.

Other healthcare options exist, though they may require longer drives. The UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Hospital in Southbridge is a possibility, requiring a significantly longer drive, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes via Route 2 and I-90 (the Massachusetts Turnpike). The distance alone, compounded by potential traffic delays, could negatively impact the score.

Public *transportation* options are limited in 01354, presenting a significant challenge for those unable to drive. The Franklin Regional Transit Authority (FRTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns of Greenfield and Turners Falls. The FRTA Route 31, for example, connects Greenfield and Orange, but schedules are limited, and the route may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. While the FRTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the availability of accessible buses and the ease of navigating bus stops can vary. This constraint necessitates a careful evaluation of the public transit component of our score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering another *transportation* alternative. However, their availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability and affordability of these services must be weighed when assessing the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent a crucial component of healthcare access. Companies like MedStar and AMR (American Medical Response) offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can provide door-to-door assistance, alleviating some of the burdens associated with traveling to appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often required. The availability and affordability of medical transport services are critical factors in determining the overall score.

The Lung Cancer Score will consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of travel times, and the availability and reliability of *transportation* options. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor. The availability of public *transportation*, even with its limitations, contributes to the score, particularly if it is ADA-compliant. The presence of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services, while potentially costly, adds flexibility and options.

The score will also consider the impact of geographic isolation. Residents of Gill, while enjoying the tranquility of a rural setting, may face longer travel times to access specialized medical care. This isolation, combined with the limited public *transportation* options, can negatively affect the score.

Furthermore, the score must account for the physical and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis. The ability to easily access medical care is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of survival and quality of life. The stress of navigating complex *transportation* systems, dealing with traffic delays, and managing the financial burden of travel can exacerbate the challenges faced by patients.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a dynamic metric, subject to change as *transportation* infrastructure and healthcare services evolve. The construction of new roads, the expansion of public *transportation* routes, and the availability of new medical transport services can all impact the score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 01354 will be a comprehensive assessment of *healthcare access*, factoring in the driving times, the availability of public *transportation* (FRTA routes, ADA features), ride-share services, and medical transport options. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the *transportation* landscape and its impact on individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, especially for those *moving to Gill* or already residing there. The score will reflect the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing vital medical care within this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, region.