02052, Medfield, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02052, Medfield, Massachusetts is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.11 percent of residents in 02052 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Westwood Pembroke Health Systems with a distance of 5.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Medfield, MA (ZIP Code 02052)

Relocating to a new town involves numerous considerations, from schools and housing to local amenities and, crucially, healthcare access. For residents of Medfield, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02052), understanding the landscape of transportation options and their impact on accessing lung cancer care is paramount. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

Medfield, a charming suburban community, enjoys a relatively advantageous position concerning healthcare access. However, its location, while offering tranquility, does introduce transportation challenges. The primary concern for individuals needing specialized lung cancer treatment is the time and effort required to reach the necessary medical facilities. This write-up will focus on the most relevant hospitals and treatment centers in the region, providing a practical guide for residents and those considering a move to Medfield.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The most direct route to major medical centers from Medfield involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) is a key artery, providing relatively swift access to Boston and its renowned hospitals. However, the commute can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

From Medfield, the most straightforward path to Boston often involves taking Route 109 east, connecting to Route 95 north, and then merging onto I-90. This route, while generally efficient, can be heavily congested during rush hour, potentially extending travel times considerably. Another option, especially when heading south, is to use Route 27, which intersects with Route 109 and offers access to I-95.

For individuals needing to reach hospitals in the western suburbs, such as those in Newton or Wellesley, Route 109 provides a direct route. This option avoids the potential bottlenecks of I-90 and I-95, although it may involve navigating more local traffic. Understanding these routes and their potential congestion points is crucial for planning medical appointments and ensuring timely access to care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Medfield, while present, is not as extensive as in more urban areas. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides limited bus service in the area. The primary bus route serving Medfield is the 52, which connects to the commuter rail at the Needham Center station.

The 52 bus offers a connection to the commuter rail, which provides access to Boston's major hospitals. However, the bus schedule is limited, and the journey to the commuter rail station can be time-consuming. The commuter rail itself offers a more reliable and faster route to Boston, but it requires a transfer, adding to the overall travel time.

ADA accessibility on the MBTA buses and commuter rail is generally good, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating areas. However, individuals with mobility limitations should confirm accessibility features with the MBTA before traveling. Public transit, while a viable option, is not the most convenient or efficient means of transportation for many Medfield residents, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a valuable alternative for transportation in Medfield. These services offer on-demand transportation, allowing residents to book rides directly from their homes to medical facilities. The availability of these services is generally good, although surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

For individuals with specific medical needs, medical transport services offer specialized transportation options. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or other medical requirements.

Medical transport services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or who require assistance during their journey. These services often offer door-to-door service, ensuring a safe and comfortable transport experience. Researching and identifying reputable medical transport providers in the Medfield area is essential for individuals requiring this type of assistance.

**Healthcare Access: A Focus on Lung Cancer Treatment**

The primary focus of this "Lung Cancer Score" is healthcare access, specifically concerning lung cancer treatment. Several hospitals and treatment centers in the greater Boston area offer comprehensive lung cancer care, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care.

Key hospitals and treatment centers that Medfield residents may need to access include:

* **Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston:** Renowned for its cancer care, MGH offers a comprehensive lung cancer program. The drive time from Medfield can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.
* **Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston:** A leading cancer center, Dana-Farber provides specialized lung cancer treatment and research. The drive time is similar to MGH.
* **Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston:** This hospital offers a comprehensive cancer program with a focus on patient-centered care. Drive times are comparable to the other Boston hospitals.
* **Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington:** Located in the northern suburbs, Lahey provides a comprehensive cancer program. The drive time from Medfield is typically longer than to Boston hospitals.

The choice of a treatment center will depend on individual needs, insurance coverage, and the specific type of lung cancer. However, the transportation considerations remain consistent: the need to navigate traffic, utilize public transit, or rely on ride-sharing or medical transport to reach the chosen facility.

**Moving to Medfield: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering a move to Medfield, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While Medfield offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, healthcare access requires careful planning. The reliance on personal vehicles for most trips, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for traffic congestion all contribute to the complexity of accessing medical care.

However, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides valuable alternatives. Furthermore, Medfield's proximity to major medical centers in Boston and the surrounding suburbs offers access to high-quality lung cancer treatment.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Medfield is a nuanced one. The town offers a desirable living environment, but healthcare access necessitates a proactive approach to transportation planning. Residents must consider their individual needs, assess the available options, and develop a strategy for ensuring timely and reliable access to the medical care they require. This proactive approach, coupled with a good understanding of the local transportation network, will empower residents to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively and receive the best possible care.