02648, Marstons Mills, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02648, Marstons Mills, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.36 percent of residents in 02648 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 7.85 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marstons Mills (ZIP Code 02648)

The crisp salt air and charming New England aesthetic of Marstons Mills, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02648) beckon many seeking a tranquil life. However, for those facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of this Cape Cod haven must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. This score, though not a formal medical assessment, considers the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing specialized care, particularly for those considering moving to Marstons Mills.

The primary concern, of course, is the timely and efficient transportation of patients to medical facilities. Lung cancer treatment often demands frequent appointments for diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical follow-up. Delays in accessing these services can significantly impact prognosis and quality of life. The Lung Cancer Score will thus reflect the ease with which residents can navigate the transportation infrastructure to reach these vital resources.

The backbone of transportation in Marstons Mills is the private vehicle. The primary artery, **Route 28**, snakes through the town, providing relatively direct access to larger towns and cities. **Route 149** offers a more local, scenic route. The drive to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, a crucial healthcare hub, typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. This is generally considered a reasonable commute, particularly for routine appointments and outpatient procedures. However, during peak tourist season, the roads become congested, and drive times can stretch considerably.

Further afield, specialized care often necessitates travel to Boston, approximately 75 to 90 miles away. This journey, primarily via **Route 6**, the Mid-Cape Highway, and then onto **I-495** and **I-93**, can take upwards of two hours, even without heavy traffic. This extended travel time presents a significant challenge for patients undergoing intensive treatment or requiring frequent monitoring. The journey is compounded by the potential for fatigue and discomfort, particularly for those experiencing treatment side effects.

Public transportation options are limited in this area. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates a bus service, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for medical appointments. The **Route 13** bus, for example, does serve Hyannis and provides access to Cape Cod Hospital, but the schedule may not align with appointment times, and the overall travel time, including potential transfers, could be lengthy. ADA-accessible buses are available, which is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. However, the limited coverage and infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many, especially those with advanced stages of lung cancer.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Marstons Mills. However, their reliability and cost can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Availability is also not guaranteed, and patients may face delays or cancellations, potentially disrupting their treatment schedules. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can also be a significant financial burden.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while often more reliable than ride-sharing, can be expensive and may require pre-booking. They are also typically reserved for patients who cannot safely travel independently.

The distance to specialized cancer centers in Boston, such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or Massachusetts General Hospital, adds another layer of complexity. The journey involves significant travel time and potential logistical challenges, including parking, traffic, and the need for overnight accommodations. The availability of support services, such as lodging for patients and their families, becomes a critical factor.

**The Lung Cancer Score for Marstons Mills (ZIP Code 02648) is a 6 out of 10.**

This score reflects the following factors:

* **Accessibility:** Reasonable access to Cape Cod Hospital for basic care, but limited public transportation options.
* **Travel Time:** Extended travel times to specialized cancer centers in Boston.
* **Transportation Options:** Reliance on personal vehicles, with limited and potentially unreliable alternatives.
* **Cost:** The potential financial burden of ride-sharing or medical transport services.
* **Support Services:** Availability of support services for patients and families is a key consideration.

This score suggests that while Marstons Mills offers a pleasant living environment, residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis must carefully consider the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the distance to specialized treatment centers pose significant hurdles. While the local hospital offers some services, the need for specialized care often necessitates lengthy travel times, potentially impacting treatment outcomes and quality of life.

For individuals considering moving to Marstons Mills, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. Researching the availability of specialized cancer care, understanding the limitations of public transit, and exploring the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services are crucial steps in making an informed decision. Planning for potential challenges and securing reliable transportation arrangements are vital for navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, location.