02724, Fall River, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02724, Fall River, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.25 percent of residents in 02724 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Anne's Hospital with a distance of 0.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fall River (ZIP Code 02724)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Fall River, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02724), the journey to care is a critical component of the overall health equation. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" if you will, assesses the ease with which residents can access vital diagnostic and treatment services, considering the nuances of transportation options within and around this historic city. It's a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Fall River, especially those with pre-existing respiratory concerns.

Fall River, nestled along the Taunton River, presents a unique challenge. While offering a rich history and vibrant community, its geography and infrastructure influence how residents navigate the healthcare landscape. This assessment will delve into the transportation realities, from personal vehicles to public transit, to determine the relative accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare within and beyond the city limits.

**The Automotive Advantage: Drive Times and Roadways**

For many, the private automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is paramount. Within Fall River, Saint Anne's Hospital (795 Middle St) stands as a central hub, offering comprehensive services, including oncology. Reaching Saint Anne's from various points within the city is generally straightforward. Residents in the northern sections might utilize North Main Street, while those in the south could take Plymouth Avenue, both converging towards the hospital.

The primary arteries for regional travel are Interstate 195 (I-195) and Route 24. I-195 provides a direct east-west connection, facilitating access to facilities in nearby cities like New Bedford (approximately a 20-30 minute drive) and Providence, Rhode Island (about a 45-60 minute drive). Route 24 offers a north-south route, connecting Fall River to Taunton and Boston. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying crucial appointments.

Consider a hypothetical scenario: a resident living near Battleship Cove (5 Water St) needs to reach a specialist in Providence. The drive, primarily via I-195 West, might take under an hour on a clear day. However, rush hour could easily extend that to 90 minutes or more. This variability underscores the importance of planning and factoring in potential delays when scheduling appointments, especially for treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy that require precise timing.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides public transportation within Fall River and surrounding communities. While a valuable resource, the SRTA network presents limitations in terms of healthcare access. Bus routes, while covering significant portions of the city, may not always directly serve all medical facilities or offer frequent service, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The SRTA's website and mobile app provide route information, schedules, and real-time tracking. For individuals with lung cancer, the ability to plan a trip with precision is critical. The availability of accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other ADA features, is also a crucial factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the system.

Consider a resident without a car living near the Fall River Government Center (1 Government Center). They might need to take the Route 1 bus to reach Saint Anne's Hospital. The frequency of this route, and the potential for transfers, would significantly impact their travel time. While the SRTA offers a valuable service, its limitations, particularly regarding frequency and direct access to all healthcare facilities, must be considered when assessing healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. Their availability in Fall River is generally reliable, offering a convenient, though potentially more expensive, alternative to public transit or driving. The ease of booking a ride, and the ability to specify a destination, can be particularly helpful for individuals undergoing treatment who may not be able to drive themselves.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, while often covered by insurance, require pre-booking and can be subject to availability.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a significant factor, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The availability of financial assistance programs or insurance coverage for these services is essential for ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Context: Healthcare Access and Moving to Fall River**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 02724 is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment. It acknowledges the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation landscape, recognizing the importance of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential of ride-sharing and medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Fall River, this analysis provides crucial insights. The proximity of Saint Anne's Hospital is a significant advantage, offering a local point of care. However, the reliance on I-195 and Route 24 for regional travel highlights the potential for delays. The SRTA provides a valuable, if limited, service. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport offers alternative pathways, though cost and accessibility remain factors.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the unique needs of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. It underscores the importance of careful planning, proactive communication with healthcare providers, and a thorough understanding of available resources. The goal is to ensure that residents of Fall River, regardless of their transportation circumstances, can navigate the healthcare system with confidence and receive the timely and effective care they deserve.