02643, East Orleans, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02643, East Orleans, Massachusetts is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 02643 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 30.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 19.25 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02643

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is significant. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 02643 (East Orleans, Massachusetts), provides a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the ease of transportation to critical healthcare services for individuals potentially diagnosed with or undergoing treatment for lung cancer. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, evaluating their practicality and efficiency. The goal is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access, a vital consideration for anyone moving to East Orleans.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in this region is the proximity to hospitals and specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive care centers, capable of providing lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, are located in Hyannis and Plymouth. These facilities offer a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The distance, however, is not the only factor; the quality and reliability of transportation play a crucial role.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents its own set of challenges. From East Orleans, the primary route to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis involves taking Route 6 East, the Mid-Cape Highway. This drive, under ideal conditions, typically takes around 45 minutes. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak season (summer), can significantly extend this travel time. The Mid-Cape Highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience bottlenecks near exits, and accidents can cause major delays.

Plymouth, home to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth, requires a longer journey. The most direct route involves taking Route 6 West, then connecting to Route 3 South. This trip, without traffic, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This route is also susceptible to traffic delays, particularly around the Sagamore Bridge, the sole access point to Cape Cod. The reliability of this journey is crucial, especially for patients requiring regular appointments or facing urgent medical needs.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates the Flex Route, a demand-response service. This service, while available, requires advance booking and may not be ideal for emergency situations or frequent appointments. The CCRTA also operates the Route 11, which connects Orleans to Hyannis. The Route 11 has limited service, particularly on weekends, and the travel time is considerably longer than driving. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The CCRTA offers ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and route coverage remain significant drawbacks.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. Their availability in the area is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. For patients with limited financial resources, this can present a considerable burden. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services during inclement weather or off-peak hours can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services, such as MedStar and Cape Cod Medical Transport, provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services offer door-to-door transport and are staffed by trained professionals. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be costly.

Evaluating the Lung Cancer Score requires considering the frequency of appointments, the potential for emergencies, and the individual’s physical capabilities. For patients requiring frequent treatments, the drive times to Hyannis or Plymouth, even with ride-sharing or medical transport, can be taxing. Public transit, while ADA-accessible, is limited in scope and frequency. The best option, for those who can, would be to drive.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 02643, therefore, is influenced by several factors. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while reasonable under ideal conditions, are subject to traffic delays. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services, while available, can be expensive and unreliable. Medical transport services provide a reliable option but come at a cost. The decision to move to East Orleans, or any location, requires a thorough assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.

For individuals considering a move to East Orleans, a proactive approach is crucial. Contacting local healthcare providers, exploring transportation options, and understanding the potential costs associated with each mode of transportation are essential steps. Researching the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, can also help individuals navigate the healthcare system.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that must be tailored to individual needs and circumstances. Understanding the transportation landscape in 02643, including drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, is paramount for ensuring healthcare access. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their relocation plans. The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals have the resources and support they need to access the healthcare they require, regardless of their location.