02771, Seekonk, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02771, Seekonk, Massachusetts is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.22 percent of residents in 02771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 12.89 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Seekonk, MA (ZIP Code 02771)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change. You're considering a move to Seekonk, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02771), a town steeped in history, offering a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. But before you unpack those boxes, let's consider a crucial aspect of your life: healthcare access, particularly in the context of a potential lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" for Seekonk, will delve into the transportation landscape that connects you to vital medical resources, painting a picture of accessibility and outlining potential challenges.

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow. Early detection and timely treatment are paramount. This means swift and reliable transportation to specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities. Your ability to navigate the transportation network becomes inextricably linked to your health outcomes. This score will assess the ease with which you can access these critical services from your potential new home in Seekonk.

The primary mode of transportation for most Seekonk residents is the personal vehicle. The town is strategically located, offering relatively easy access to major roadways. Interstate 195 (I-195) forms a vital artery, connecting Seekonk to Providence, Rhode Island, and the Massachusetts coastline. This highway is your gateway to Rhode Island Hospital, a major healthcare provider, and other medical facilities in Providence. The drive typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, bisects Seekonk, providing another crucial transportation route. It leads directly to hospitals and medical centers in the nearby city of Fall River, Massachusetts. This option, while potentially offering shorter distances, can be subject to more congested traffic, especially during peak hours. Expect drive times to vary between 20 to 35 minutes. Route 44, another significant road, provides access to hospitals and specialists in Taunton, Massachusetts, adding another layer to the network of healthcare access.

Beyond these primary highways, a network of local roads like Newman Avenue, Taunton Avenue, and Arcade Avenue provides connectivity within Seekonk and to surrounding towns. These routes offer alternative paths to medical appointments, but their reliance on traffic lights and local congestion can extend travel times. The efficiency of your commute to healthcare will hinge on your ability to navigate these varied road networks.

Public transportation options in Seekonk are limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) offers some bus service, but it is not extensive within the town itself. Bus Route 60, for example, provides service along Route 6, connecting Seekonk to Providence. This route can be a viable option for those who cannot drive, but it may involve transfers and longer travel times.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. RIPTA is mandated to provide accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. However, the frequency of service and the distance to bus stops from your home will significantly impact the practicality of using public transit for medical appointments. The availability of accessible transportation is a crucial factor in our Lung Cancer Score.

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) does not directly service Seekonk. The nearest MBTA commuter rail station is in Providence, Rhode Island, requiring a separate trip to access. This adds another layer of complexity to the transportation equation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. These services are readily available in Seekonk and can provide convenient door-to-door transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing, especially during off-peak hours and for specialized medical needs, is an important aspect of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. Companies like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Seekonk, therefore, is a complex calculation. The town's location provides relatively good access to major highways, shortening drive times to healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their cost and availability must be considered.

The ease of moving to Seekonk is often discussed, but the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of considering all transportation options when evaluating healthcare access. It is crucial to assess your individual needs, mobility, and financial resources when making this critical decision.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Seekonk is a mixed bag. The town's location offers good access to healthcare facilities via car, but the limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing services can present challenges. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone considering a move to Seekonk, especially those with potential healthcare needs. Prioritizing transportation options, researching healthcare facilities, and understanding the costs associated with each mode of transportation will ensure you can navigate the healthcare landscape with confidence and ease. This proactive approach ensures that your new home in Seekonk is not just a place to live, but a place where you can readily access the care you need.