01867, Reading, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01867, Reading, Massachusetts is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.16 percent of residents in 01867 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Winchester Hospital with a distance of 4.33 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reading, MA (ZIP Code 01867)

The air in Reading, Massachusetts, carries a familiar scent, a blend of suburban tranquility and the faint promise of change. For those considering a move to this Middlesex County town, or for current residents navigating the complexities of healthcare, understanding access to lung cancer treatment is paramount. This write-up, designed to assess a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation infrastructure, aims to illuminate the journey from diagnosis to care, a critical consideration for anyone facing this challenging disease. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 01867, the heart of Reading.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is transportation. How easily can a patient, potentially weakened by illness and treatment, reach the necessary medical facilities? In Reading, the primary mode of transportation for accessing specialized lung cancer care is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle.

Driving times are crucial. The primary artery through Reading is Interstate 93 (I-93), a major north-south thoroughfare. Heading south on I-93, the drive to Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston, a renowned cancer center, is approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey, while relatively short, can be significantly impacted by rush hour congestion. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) maintains real-time traffic updates, accessible via their website and various navigation apps, offering vital information for planning appointments and minimizing travel stress.

Alternatively, heading north on I-93 offers access to Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, a well-regarded healthcare facility. The drive is typically 10-15 minutes, making it a more accessible option for those living in the northern sections of Reading. Route 128, the "Yankee Division" of the interstate system, provides another route to both hospitals, but is often more congested during peak hours.

Beyond the interstates, local roads like Main Street, Woburn Street, and Washington Street provide access to local medical offices and pharmacies. However, these routes can be slower and more prone to traffic delays, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. These local roads are a critical part of the transportation network, especially for those needing frequent appointments or follow-up care.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus service to Reading, with routes connecting to the Orange Line subway in Boston. The 134 bus route travels from the Reading Depot to the Wellington Station, offering a connection to the city. The 136 and 137 routes also serve parts of Reading, providing access to nearby towns.

However, relying solely on public transportation for lung cancer treatment presents challenges. The bus routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, and transfers, particularly with the need for ADA-compliant features, can add significant travel time and strain on a patient's physical condition. The MBTA strives to ensure accessibility, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating for passengers with disabilities. However, the reliability of the system and the potential for delays must be factored into the overall healthcare access equation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option, providing door-to-door transportation. These services can be particularly useful for those unable to drive or who prefer not to navigate traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, especially with frequent appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is another consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can alleviate some of the logistical burdens of traveling to and from appointments. However, availability and insurance coverage vary, and these services often require advance booking.

For residents considering moving to Reading, the proximity to quality healthcare facilities is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single numerical value, but rather a comprehensive assessment based on several factors. The drive times to major cancer centers, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation options all contribute to the ease or difficulty of accessing care.

For a patient newly diagnosed with lung cancer, the ability to quickly and easily reach their oncologist, undergo diagnostic tests, and receive treatment is crucial. The proximity to both MGH and Lahey Hospital, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, provides a reasonable level of healthcare access for residents of Reading. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning and consideration.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Reading, MA (01867) is therefore, cautiously optimistic. While the town offers good access to quality healthcare, the individual patient's circumstances, including their physical condition, financial resources, and access to social support, will significantly impact their ability to navigate the transportation landscape and successfully receive the care they need. The ability to manage transportation is a critical component of the overall treatment plan and must be considered when evaluating the suitability of Reading as a place to live and receive care.