02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.55 percent of residents in 02746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 11.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 02746 (New Bedford, MA)

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, becomes a critical element of survival. In the city of New Bedford, Massachusetts, ZIP code 02746, this journey is shaped by its unique geography and the available **transportation** options. This analysis will provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, focusing on **healthcare access** for residents. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture for individuals considering **moving to New Bedford** or seeking care within the area.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the location of key healthcare providers specializing in lung cancer treatment. St. Luke's Hospital, a prominent facility, serves as a central hub. Other options include specialists and facilities within the greater Southcoast Health system and potentially those in nearby cities like Providence, Rhode Island. The 'Lung Cancer Score' will reflect the ease or difficulty of reaching these destinations from various points within 02746.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those with the means and ability to drive, the primary roadways dictate healthcare access. From many points in 02746, reaching St. Luke's Hospital involves navigating the city streets and potentially the Route 195 corridor. The time spent on the road is a significant factor, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating symptoms.

Traveling from the north side of 02746, residents might utilize Acushnet Avenue, a busy thoroughfare that funnels traffic towards the city center. This route can be subject to congestion, especially during peak hours. Alternatively, the more direct Route 140 provides another avenue, connecting to Route 195. The time required to reach St. Luke's from this sector can vary from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

From the south and west sides of the ZIP code, access is often facilitated by County Street, a major artery that eventually intersects with Hathaway Road, leading to the hospital. Traffic on County Street can be heavy, and navigating intersections requires vigilance. The drive time from these areas can range from 15 to 25 minutes, potentially longer during rush hour.

The availability of parking at the hospital is another consideration. While St. Luke's offers parking facilities, patients and their caregivers should factor in the time needed to find a space and walk to the appointment. The 'Lung Cancer Score' will acknowledge the potential stress and added time associated with parking challenges.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

For those reliant on public **transportation**, the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service within New Bedford. Several routes serve 02746, offering varying degrees of convenience for accessing healthcare facilities. The accessibility of these routes, including ADA-compliant features like ramps and designated seating, is crucial for patients with mobility limitations.

Route 2, for instance, provides service along Acushnet Avenue, potentially connecting residents to St. Luke's Hospital. Route 7 offers access to the city center and transfer points, enabling connections to other routes that may lead to medical appointments. Route 10 serves the southern portion of the city, offering access to various healthcare providers.

The frequency of bus service and the overall travel time are essential factors. Patients may face extended travel times, particularly if transfers are required. The 'Lung Cancer Score' will assess the efficiency of the public transit system, considering the frequency of service, route coverage, and potential travel times to healthcare facilities.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another **transportation** option, providing on-demand access to healthcare. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who cannot drive or who require immediate transport. However, the availability of drivers and the associated costs can be significant factors.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While medical transport offers a higher level of care and convenience, it typically comes at a higher cost.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' will consider the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, recognizing their importance in ensuring **healthcare access** for all residents, regardless of their physical limitations or financial circumstances.

**The 'Lung Cancer Score' Framework**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for 02746 will be based on a multi-faceted approach. It considers drive times from various points within the ZIP code, the accessibility and efficiency of public transit routes, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare.

Factors influencing the score include:

* **Drive Time:** Average drive times to St. Luke's Hospital and other key healthcare providers.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency of bus service, route coverage, and ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Availability of Uber/Lyft and associated costs.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Parking Availability:** Ease of parking at healthcare facilities.

The score will be presented with a detailed explanation of the methodology and the factors considered. This information will provide residents of 02746 with a comprehensive understanding of the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Conclusion: A Compass for Healthcare Navigation**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' aims to provide a valuable resource for residents of 02746, offering a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. It is a critical factor for anyone considering **moving to New Bedford** and seeking the best possible care. By understanding the **transportation** landscape, patients and their caregivers can make informed decisions and navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to focus on their health and well-being, knowing that they have the resources and support needed to overcome the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.