02575, West Tisbury, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02575, West Tisbury, Massachusetts is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 02575 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Martha's Vineyard Hospital Inc with a distance of 5.96 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Tisbury (ZIP Code 02575)

The crisp salt air and rolling hills of West Tisbury, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02575), offer a bucolic escape. Yet, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of island life presents a unique challenge: **transportation** to and from vital **healthcare access**. This analysis, the “Lung Cancer Score,” considers the complexities of reaching treatment centers from this rural community, assessing drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** solutions, providing a comprehensive picture for anyone considering **moving to West Tisbury** while battling this disease.

The primary concern is the distance to specialized oncology care. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located on the mainland, requiring a ferry crossing. This adds a significant layer of complexity to the **transportation** equation. The average drive time from West Tisbury to the Woods Hole ferry terminal, via State Road (Route 6A) and Edgartown-West Tisbury Road, is approximately 20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, this drive can extend considerably during peak tourist season, potentially doubling or tripling the travel time.

Once at the ferry terminal, the Steamship Authority ferries provide the primary link to the mainland. The ferry ride to Woods Hole is approximately 45 minutes. From Woods Hole, the drive to Falmouth Hospital, the closest hospital with some cancer services, is a further 15 minutes via Palmer Avenue and Route 28. This route, however, may not offer the specialized oncology care required for advanced lung cancer treatment.

For more advanced treatment, patients typically need to travel further. The drive from Woods Hole to the major cancer centers in Boston, such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or Massachusetts General Hospital, is a minimum of 1 hour and 45 minutes, assuming no traffic. This journey involves navigating the Bourne Bridge and the Sagamore Bridge, both of which can experience significant congestion, especially during weekends and holidays. The route typically utilizes Route 28 South, merging onto Route 3 South, and eventually connecting to I-93 North, which leads into Boston.

The journey is not just about the distance, but also the frequency. Lung cancer treatment often involves multiple appointments per week, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up consultations. This constant need for **transportation** can become a major burden, both financially and emotionally, for patients and their families. The cost of ferry tickets, gas, and parking in Boston adds up quickly.

Public **transportation** options are limited. The Martha's Vineyard Regional Transit Authority (VTA) provides bus service on the island, but it is not designed for frequent trips to the mainland. The VTA offers routes that connect to the ferry terminals, but the schedules are not always conducive to medical appointments. Furthermore, the VTA buses may not be fully equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on all routes, which could pose a significant challenge for patients with mobility issues.

The Steamship Authority ferries are generally ADA accessible, but accessibility may vary depending on the specific vessel. Passengers with mobility issues should contact the Steamship Authority in advance to confirm accessibility features and request assistance.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available on Martha's Vineyard, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-season. Securing a ride to the ferry terminal or to appointments on the mainland can be challenging, and the cost can be prohibitive.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedStar, offer specialized **transportation** for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with luggage and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services on Martha's Vineyard is limited, and patients may need to coordinate with mainland-based providers.

The **healthcare access** landscape in West Tisbury highlights the importance of proactive planning. Patients and their families need to carefully consider the **transportation** challenges associated with lung cancer treatment. This includes assessing the financial burden, the time commitment, and the emotional toll of frequent travel.

For individuals considering **moving to West Tisbury** with a history of lung cancer, a thorough investigation of the available **transportation** options is essential. This includes researching the frequency of medical appointments, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical **transportation**.

Furthermore, exploring options for telehealth appointments and local support services can help mitigate the challenges of long-distance travel. Telehealth can provide access to consultations and follow-up care without requiring patients to travel to the mainland. Local support groups and community resources can offer emotional support and practical assistance.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for West Tisbury is not simply a numerical value. It is a complex assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing **healthcare access** in this beautiful but geographically isolated community. It underscores the need for careful planning, proactive communication, and a strong support system for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The journey is arduous, but with careful preparation and a supportive network, patients can navigate the **transportation** complexities and focus on their health.