02542, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02542, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.07 percent of residents in 02542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 6.87 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Buzzards Bay (ZIP Code 02542)

Moving to Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02542), offers the allure of coastal living, but prospective residents must also consider healthcare access. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease of reaching essential medical services. This score weighs drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

The primary concern for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialists. Early detection and treatment are critical for improved outcomes. Therefore, this assessment prioritizes proximity to hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, pulmonology, oncology, and surgical services. The analysis assumes a hypothetical patient residing in the central part of Buzzards Bay, near the intersection of Main Street and Shore Road.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Healthcare Access**

The backbone of transportation in Buzzards Bay is the automobile. The most direct route to major healthcare facilities involves navigating the local roadways. The nearest hospital offering comprehensive cancer care is Tobey Hospital in Wareham, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **Route 6** (the Cranberry Highway) and **Main Street**. This relatively short drive time provides a favorable starting point for our "Lung Cancer Score."

For more specialized care, including advanced treatments or clinical trials, patients may need to travel further afield. Reaching major hospitals in Boston, such as Massachusetts General Hospital or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, requires a significantly longer journey. The most common route involves taking **Route 28** north, merging onto **Interstate 495**, and finally connecting to **Interstate 93** into Boston. This drive can take between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer travel time contributes to a lower score, as it increases the potential for delays and adds to the stress of managing a serious illness.

Another option for specialized care is Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, which is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive. The route involves taking **Route 195** west. This option offers a shorter travel time than Boston, but the quality of care and specialist availability may vary.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation in Buzzards Bay is limited, but it does offer some alternatives for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the area. However, routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. The nearest SRTA bus routes, such as the #10 and #11, primarily connect to Wareham and New Bedford. These routes require transfers and can significantly extend travel times, making them less practical for urgent medical needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on SRTA buses is generally available. However, the limited frequency and potential for multiple transfers make public transit a less reliable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment. The reliance on public transit significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score" due to the potential for delays and reduced flexibility.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Buzzards Bay, offering a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to operate a vehicle. However, the availability of these services can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as medical transport of Massachusetts, offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable, they can also be costly and require advance booking.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for Buzzards Bay (02542): A Composite Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Buzzards Bay, considering the factors above, would be moderately favorable. The proximity to Tobey Hospital provides a solid foundation. However, the reliance on driving for specialized care and the limited public transit options, coupled with the potential costs and availability issues of ride-sharing and medical transportation, contribute to a lower overall score.

The score is also affected by the potential for traffic delays on major roadways, particularly during peak commuting hours. This unpredictability can add to the stress of medical appointments and potentially impact treatment adherence.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Individuals considering moving to Buzzards Bay, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses, should carefully assess their transportation needs. Prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities, consider the availability and cost of alternative transportation options, and factor in potential travel times and traffic conditions.

It is also advisable to investigate the availability of support services, such as patient navigators or transportation assistance programs, offered by local hospitals or cancer support organizations. These resources can help patients navigate the healthcare system and overcome transportation barriers.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Moving to Buzzards Bay offers a desirable lifestyle, but it requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the proximity to Tobey Hospital is a positive factor, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of accessing specialized care in Boston or Providence necessitate a proactive approach to transportation planning. By understanding the transportation landscape and utilizing available resources, residents of ZIP code 02542 can effectively navigate the healthcare system and ensure timely access to the care they need. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is a crucial factor in making informed decisions about where to live and how to manage one's health.