01506, Brookfield, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01506, Brookfield, Massachusetts is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.79 percent of residents in 01506 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umass Memorial Health - Harrington Hospital with a distance of 7.32 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Transportation Analysis for Healthcare Access in Brookfield, MA (ZIP Code 01506)**

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and reliable healthcare access. For residents of Brookfield, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01506), the journey to potentially life-saving treatment is intricately woven with the threads of transportation. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," delves into the accessibility landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. It provides a crucial understanding for those seeking to move to Brookfield or who already reside within its borders, seeking clarity on their healthcare access options.

The primary healthcare hubs serving Brookfield are located in Worcester, a city offering comprehensive medical facilities. The most direct route by car involves navigating **Route 9**, a major east-west artery. During peak hours, the drive can extend, but on average, it takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to reach UMass Memorial Medical Center or Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester. **Route 148** and **Route 169** offer alternative, albeit slightly longer, routes, potentially avoiding traffic bottlenecks on Route 9. These roads, however, are more rural and may present challenges during inclement weather.

Public transportation options in Brookfield are limited, which can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus service, but it is not extensive within Brookfield. The most relevant route, the **WRTA Route 27**, connects Brookfield to Worcester. This route operates with limited frequency, making it less than ideal for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the WRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent schedule and the potential for extended travel times, often exceeding an hour, can pose significant challenges for patients, particularly those undergoing cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Brookfield, offering a more flexible transportation option compared to public transit. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to high demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to and from medical appointments. The reliance on a mobile app and a reliable internet connection also introduces potential barriers.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several companies operate in the area, including LifeLine Ambulance Service and AMR (American Medical Response). These services offer both basic and advanced life support transportation, including stretcher transport and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, further impacting the overall Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score must consider the specific needs of cancer patients. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care necessitate reliable and efficient transportation. The emotional and physical toll of cancer treatment can make navigating transportation challenges even more difficult. Therefore, the availability of convenient and affordable transportation is critical for ensuring timely access to care.

The absence of a dedicated cancer center within Brookfield or its immediate vicinity necessitates travel to Worcester or other regional medical facilities. This increases the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services. The limited public transit options, with their infrequent schedules, present a significant hurdle for many residents.

For individuals considering moving to Brookfield, the Lung Cancer Score should be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. It is essential to assess the transportation options available and their suitability for their individual needs. This includes evaluating the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the associated costs.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It also affects the patient's ability to maintain a sense of normalcy and independence. The stress of navigating complex transportation systems can exacerbate the emotional and physical challenges of cancer treatment.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Brookfield, MA (ZIP code 01506) reflects a mixed picture. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some flexibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The drive times to Worcester, while manageable, can be subject to traffic delays. The cost of transportation, particularly for frequent medical appointments, can be a significant financial burden.

The analysis underscores the importance of considering the transportation landscape when evaluating healthcare access. For residents of Brookfield, understanding the available options and their limitations is crucial for ensuring timely and effective cancer care. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improved transportation services within their community.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Brookfield, MA (ZIP code 01506) highlights the critical interplay between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers some options, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport services necessitate careful consideration. Individuals seeking to move to Brookfield or those already residing there must proactively assess their transportation needs and explore all available resources to ensure they can access the vital care they require. The journey to healthcare is a crucial one, and the availability of reliable and accessible transportation can make all the difference.