01545, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01545, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.61 percent of residents in 01545 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umass Memorial Medical Center/University Campus with a distance of 1.82 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Shrewsbury, MA (ZIP Code 01545)**

The air in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, carries the scent of New England, a blend of pine and possibility. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the ease of navigating the landscape to access vital healthcare becomes a critical factor. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," delves into the transportation infrastructure within and surrounding ZIP code 01545, evaluating how readily individuals can reach essential medical facilities. This is crucial for anyone contemplating *moving to Shrewsbury*, especially those with existing health concerns.

The heart of the matter lies in healthcare access. The ability to attend appointments, receive treatments, and participate in follow-up care hinges on reliable *transportation* options. The Shrewsbury area, while possessing a certain charm, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to commuting. We'll examine the existing transportation network, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, to create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

Driving remains the dominant mode of travel in Shrewsbury. Interstate 290, a vital east-west artery, offers relatively swift access to Worcester, a major medical hub. Heading east on I-290, the trip to UMass Memorial Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment center, can take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 9, another key thoroughfare, provides a more direct, albeit often congested, route to Worcester. The journey on Route 9 can vary, but usually takes around 20-30 minutes, especially during peak hours.

For those needing to travel north or south, Route 140 and Route 140A offer alternative routes, but these roads can be slower and less direct. The time it takes to reach facilities in these directions is highly variable, often dependent on the time of day and the specific destination. A drive to a specialist in Marlborough, for example, could take upwards of 45 minutes, especially if using Route 20.

Public transportation in Shrewsbury, while available, presents limitations. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) operates several bus routes serving the area. Route 14, for instance, runs through Shrewsbury, connecting to Worcester. However, the frequency of these buses is often limited, and the travel time to Worcester can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute.

The WRTA strives to provide accessible transportation. All WRTA buses are ADA-compliant, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and the potential for extended travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Shrewsbury, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies such as LogistiCare and Access Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be a valuable resource for individuals unable to drive or use public transit. However, the need to schedule these services in advance and the potential for delays can present challenges.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury, MA, is a nuanced assessment. While the proximity to Worcester offers access to high-quality cancer care, the reliance on driving and the limitations of public transit create a mixed bag. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides options, but these come with their own set of considerations.

For someone *moving to Shrewsbury* with a lung cancer diagnosis or a predisposition to the disease, the following factors are particularly relevant. First, the proximity to comprehensive cancer treatment centers, such as UMass Memorial Medical Center, is a significant advantage. Second, the ability to drive, or the availability of someone to drive, is crucial for accessing care. Third, the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services are important considerations.

The Shrewsbury area, while offering a pleasant environment, is not without its transportation challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" is a reminder that *healthcare access* is not simply about the presence of medical facilities, but also about the ease with which individuals can reach them. The ideal scenario is a combination of convenient driving routes, reliable public transit, and readily available ride-sharing and medical transportation options.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury reflects a moderate level of accessibility. While the proximity to Worcester and the availability of ride-sharing services offer advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion on major roads necessitate careful planning and consideration. The journey to healthcare, especially for those battling lung cancer, is a complex one, and the transportation infrastructure plays a vital role in determining the ease and effectiveness of that journey.