02638, Dennis, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.85 percent of residents in 02638 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 9.25 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Dennis, MA (ZIP Code 02638)

The sun-drenched shores of Dennis, Massachusetts, beckon with promises of a tranquil life. But before you trade city lights for Cape Cod charm, consider a crucial aspect of your potential move: healthcare access, particularly if you're at risk for lung cancer. This write-up, a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, explores the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 02638, examining how easily you can reach essential medical services for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

Your health journey starts with efficient access to healthcare. Lung cancer, a formidable adversary, demands timely intervention. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly impact outcomes. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation infrastructure in Dennis, empowering you to make informed decisions about your well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Care**

Dennis, a town woven with scenic routes, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the iconic Route 6, also known as the Mid-Cape Highway, and Route 28, the coastal byway. These roads, while offering picturesque views, can experience significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

For residents of Dennis, the closest major hospital is Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, approximately 15-20 miles away. The drive typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. You'll likely traverse Route 134, a connector road, to reach Route 6, then head east. In the event of a medical emergency, every minute counts.

Specialized lung cancer treatment centers, such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, are considerably further. The journey, primarily via Route 6 and the I-495, can stretch to 1.5 to 2 hours, excluding potential traffic delays. This long-distance travel underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative transportation options, especially for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Dennis are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates the FLEX service, a demand-response system. While FLEX offers door-to-door service within its designated service area, its availability and scheduling are subject to demand and may require advance booking. This makes it less reliable for urgent medical appointments.

The CCRTA also runs the Route 6 bus, which travels along the Mid-Cape Highway. While this route provides a connection to Hyannis, where you can transfer to other CCRTA services, it may not be ideal for individuals with mobility limitations. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are available on CCRTA buses, but the frequency and route coverage may not meet the needs of all patients.

The limited public transit options highlight the challenges of healthcare access in Dennis, especially for those without personal vehicles or who face mobility constraints.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Dennis, but their availability can fluctuate. During peak seasons or off-peak hours, securing a ride may prove challenging, potentially leading to delays in reaching medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. They can be invaluable for individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance during transport.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Dennis, MA (02638) reflects a mixed picture. While the scenic beauty and relaxed pace of life are undeniable, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for ride-sharing availability issues all contribute to the complexity of navigating the healthcare landscape.

For individuals at risk for lung cancer, the distance to specialized treatment centers and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning. The availability of medical transport services and the need to consider their costs and booking requirements are crucial factors.

**Moving to Dennis: A Prudent Consideration**

If you're considering moving to Dennis and are concerned about lung cancer risk, a thorough assessment of your transportation needs is essential. Evaluate your ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities. While Cape Cod Hospital is relatively accessible, consider the travel time to specialized treatment centers. Factor in the cost and availability of transportation services when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Dennis is personal. By understanding the transportation challenges and planning accordingly, you can ensure that your access to healthcare remains a priority. This 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment provides the foundation for making informed decisions, empowering you to embrace the beauty of Dennis while safeguarding your health.