02054, Millis, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02054, Millis, Massachusetts is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.79 percent of residents in 02054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Westwood Pembroke Health Systems with a distance of 7.59 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02054 (Millis, MA)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Millis, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02054), the ability to reach diagnostic and treatment facilities is a critical factor in their well-being. This "Lung Cancer Score" assesses the ease with which residents can access necessary healthcare, focusing on the critical element of transportation. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating moving to Millis, seeking to understand the healthcare landscape.

Millis, a charming suburban town, boasts a relatively low population density. This, coupled with its proximity to larger metropolitan areas, creates a unique transportation profile impacting healthcare access. The score aims to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking lung cancer care within and around this community.

**Drive Times: The Primary Route to Care**

For many Millis residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The speed and convenience of a car often outweigh the limitations of public transit, especially when dealing with the urgency of a potential lung cancer diagnosis. The primary artery for accessing healthcare is Route 109, which connects Millis to surrounding towns and cities.

Heading east on Route 109, a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes will bring you to Norwood Hospital, a key healthcare provider. This journey is generally straightforward, though traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend the travel time. Further east, the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) offers a quicker route to Boston-area hospitals, such as Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital. However, this journey, depending on the destination and traffic, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more.

Westward on Route 109, residents can access Milford Regional Medical Center within a 15-20 minute drive. This facility offers a range of services, including cancer care. The journey involves navigating through neighboring towns, and traffic can be a factor, especially during rush hour. Route 27 also provides access to healthcare facilities in the surrounding towns.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Millis are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or prefer not to. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) does not directly serve Millis with a commuter rail line. Therefore, the availability of public transit for healthcare access is significantly constrained.

The nearest commuter rail stations are located in neighboring towns, such as Franklin and Walpole. Reaching these stations necessitates either driving or utilizing local bus services, which are infrequent and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. Furthermore, the lack of direct public transit to major hospitals in Boston significantly impacts healthcare access for those reliant on public transportation.

The MBTA does offer some bus routes that serve areas near Millis, but these routes often involve transfers and extended travel times. ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While the MBTA strives to provide accessible services, the reliance on transfers and the potential for long travel times can create significant barriers.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Millis can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those needing medical support during transit. The cost of these services can vary significantly, and insurance coverage may be limited.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the interplay of these transportation factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access in Millis. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic reflection of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents.

Millis's location, while offering a degree of suburban tranquility, presents challenges regarding transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the complexity of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The score considers the time required to reach various healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit options, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It also considers the cost of transportation, the accessibility of services for individuals with disabilities, and the overall convenience of accessing care.

**Moving to Millis: A Consideration of Healthcare**

For individuals contemplating moving to Millis, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" can provide valuable insights into the ease with which they can access the necessary care. The score highlights the importance of considering factors such as proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential cost of accessing care.

The score emphasizes the need to plan and prepare for potential transportation challenges, particularly for those who do not drive or have mobility limitations. It underscores the importance of researching available transportation options, including ride-sharing services and medical transport services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Journey**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Millis, MA (02054) reflects the complex interplay of transportation factors that impact healthcare access. While the town offers a degree of suburban convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges.

Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals seeking lung cancer care in Millis. By considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, residents can navigate the healthcare journey more effectively. This understanding is particularly critical for those contemplating moving to Millis, ensuring that they can access the necessary care when they need it most. The score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not merely about the presence of facilities, but also about the ability to reach them.