02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.07 percent of residents in 02747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 8.81 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 02747**

The air hangs heavy with the promise of the Atlantic, a salty tang that defines the coastal community of North Dartmouth, Massachusetts, ZIP code 02747. But beyond the picturesque harbors and historic charm lies a critical consideration for residents, particularly those facing health challenges: healthcare access. This write-up delves into the complexities of navigating transportation options for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, a disease that demands swift and consistent medical attention. We’ll analyze the available routes, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to create a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital healthcare services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to North Dartmouth, or for current residents seeking a clearer understanding of their options.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 02747 is the proximity to major medical facilities. The primary destination for comprehensive lung cancer care is likely to be the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, or the nearby St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford. The drive to St. Luke's Hospital presents a more manageable option, but the drive to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center is a longer trip.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the journey to St. Luke's Hospital typically involves navigating the local roadways. The most direct route involves heading south on Faunce Corner Road, merging onto Route 6, and then following Route 6 to the hospital. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. The trip can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the time of day and traffic volume.

Alternatively, a slightly longer route involves using Route 195 East, which provides a faster, more direct route to the hospital. This option often bypasses some of the local congestion, but it can be affected by accidents or construction. The drive time on Route 195 East to St. Luke's Hospital is around 20 to 35 minutes.

The commute to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a much more substantial undertaking. The most direct route involves taking Route 195 West to I-95 North, then connecting to I-89 North. This journey covers a considerable distance and can take upwards of four to five hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The time commitment necessitates careful planning, especially for regular appointments and treatments.

Public transportation options in 02747 are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service within the area, but these routes may not directly serve medical facilities or offer the frequency required for cancer patients. The SRTA Route 1, which runs through Dartmouth, could be useful for accessing local services, but it doesn’t provide direct access to major hospitals. The SRTA routes, while offering some degree of accessibility, may not be the most practical option for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. ADA-compliant buses are available, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility challenges, but the limited service frequency and route coverage remain a significant hurdle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area and offer a more flexible transportation alternative. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in response to weather events. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. For those without access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing can be a lifeline, but it's essential to factor in potential wait times and the financial implications.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including MedStar Ambulance Service and American Medical Response (AMR). However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are usually required.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 02747 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to St. Luke's Hospital offers relatively convenient access, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services create challenges. The lengthy commute to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center further compounds these difficulties. The score would be lower for those without access to a personal vehicle or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The challenges of transportation are significant for individuals battling lung cancer. The fatigue, side effects of treatment, and potential mobility limitations associated with the disease make reliable and accessible transportation paramount. Healthcare access hinges not only on the availability of medical facilities but also on the ease with which patients can reach them.

For individuals considering moving to North Dartmouth, the availability of healthcare access should be a primary consideration. Assessing the transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, is crucial. Understanding the potential challenges and planning accordingly can help ensure that individuals receive the timely and consistent care they need.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the presence of medical facilities; it’s about the ability to reach those facilities. In 02747, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and obstacles. Careful planning, awareness of available resources, and a proactive approach to navigating the transportation system are essential for ensuring that individuals with lung cancer can access the care they deserve.