02721, Fall River, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02721, Fall River, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.85 percent of residents in 02721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Anne's Hospital with a distance of 0.50 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fall River (ZIP Code 02721)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of the sea and the echoes of industry in Fall River, Massachusetts, ZIP code 02721. For those considering a move here, particularly those with existing health concerns or a predisposition to lung cancer, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to key medical facilities, offering a critical lens through which to view healthcare accessibility within this historic city.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical tool, but a practical guide to understanding the challenges and opportunities related to accessing specialized care. It considers the crucial element of transportation, the lifeline connecting residents to vital medical resources. For those battling lung cancer, timely and reliable transportation is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity.

Fall River, nestled on the Taunton River, presents a unique transportation landscape. Driving remains the most common mode of transport, offering flexibility but also subject to traffic and distance. The primary artery is Interstate 195 (I-195), which slices through the city, providing relatively swift access to healthcare facilities. However, rush hour congestion can significantly impact drive times, particularly during the morning and evening commutes.

Heading east on I-195 leads to Charlton Memorial Hospital, a key healthcare provider in Fall River. Under optimal conditions, the drive from central Fall River, around the Government Center area, is a swift 10-15 minutes. However, during peak traffic, this can easily stretch to 25-30 minutes. The Veterans’ Home, also located in Fall River, is accessible via I-195 and local roads, with similar drive times.

Westbound on I-195 offers access to facilities in neighboring cities, such as the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. This journey, while longer, is crucial for specialized treatments not readily available in Fall River. The drive, typically taking 30-45 minutes, is heavily reliant on traffic flow, particularly around the Massachusetts/Rhode Island border.

Local roads, such as Pleasant Street, South Main Street, and North Main Street, provide alternative routes, but they are often slower and more prone to delays due to traffic lights and local congestion. These routes are essential for those living closer to the city's core, but they require careful planning, especially during peak hours.

Public transportation, offered by the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA), provides an alternative, albeit with limitations. SRTA operates several bus routes within Fall River, connecting key areas and healthcare facilities. Route 1, a key route, travels along North Main Street and provides access to Charlton Memorial Hospital, making it a vital link for residents.

However, the SRTA system faces challenges. Route frequency can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. While the SRTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for all riders, potential wait times and the need for transfers can add to the overall travel time, impacting the "Lung Cancer Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation. These services provide a convenient option, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to navigate traffic. However, ride-share availability and pricing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or periods of high demand. For individuals requiring frequent medical appointments, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar and AMR, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring safe and comfortable transport to and from medical appointments. While these services provide a valuable lifeline, they often require pre-booking and can be subject to scheduling constraints.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Fall River (02721) is therefore a nuanced assessment. The city offers multiple transportation options, but each presents its own challenges. Driving provides flexibility but is vulnerable to traffic delays. Public transportation offers an affordable alternative but may have limited frequency and accessibility. Ride-sharing provides convenience but can be expensive. Medical transportation services offer specialized care but require pre-planning.

For individuals considering a move to Fall River, or those already residing here, careful consideration of these factors is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ability to navigate the city's transportation network are all vital components of the "Lung Cancer Score."

The decision to relocate, especially for those facing health challenges, requires a comprehensive evaluation. Assessing the drive times to key medical facilities, understanding the public transportation options, and evaluating the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are all essential steps.

Living in Fall River presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. The city's rich history, vibrant community, and affordable housing options are attractive. However, the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for those with specific medical needs, must be a primary consideration.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Fall River (02721) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It requires ongoing evaluation, adapting to changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and individual needs. For those seeking a new home, this assessment offers a crucial framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and making informed decisions about their well-being.