02790, Westport, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02790, Westport, Massachusetts is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.20 percent of residents in 02790 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 21.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Westport, MA (ZIP Code 02790)

The air, thick with the scent of salt and sea, whispers through the quaint streets of Westport, Massachusetts. A town steeped in maritime history, it offers a tranquil escape, drawing individuals seeking a slower pace of life. Yet, beneath the idyllic surface, the specter of illness, particularly lung cancer, casts a long shadow. This write-up delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options for residents of ZIP Code 02790, aiming to formulate a “Lung Cancer Score” reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching vital medical services. This is crucial for anyone considering moving to Westport, as proximity to healthcare is a significant factor in overall well-being.

The journey to healthcare begins at the doorstep. For those residing in Westport, the primary challenge lies in its relative isolation. While the town boasts a strong sense of community, it is not densely populated, and healthcare facilities are not immediately accessible. The “Lung Cancer Score” must consider this, evaluating the time and effort required to reach diagnostic and treatment centers.

**Driving the Route to Recovery:**

The most common mode of transportation in Westport is the personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Westport to the outside world are Route 6 and Route 177. Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to Fall River, New Bedford, and beyond. Route 177, running north-south, connects Westport to Tiverton and Little Compton, Rhode Island.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic and the destination. Reaching the nearest hospitals, such as Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River or St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. These hospitals are the primary providers of cancer care in the region. During peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, travel times can easily double, adding to the stress and anxiety already associated with a cancer diagnosis.

For specialized treatment, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further afield to larger medical centers in Providence, Rhode Island, or Boston. This can translate to drive times exceeding an hour, significantly impacting the patient's ability to adhere to treatment schedules and the emotional toll of prolonged travel. The “Lung Cancer Score” will need to reflect these extended travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Westport are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. The SRTA Route 10 bus, for example, travels along Route 6, offering a potential connection to Fall River. However, the frequency of this route is limited, and the journey can be time-consuming, involving multiple transfers.

Accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges is another critical factor. While SRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as ramps and wheelchair lifts, the overall system may not be conducive to patients undergoing cancer treatment. The long wait times and potential for crowded buses can exacerbate fatigue and discomfort. The “Lung Cancer Score” must consider the limitations of public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Westport, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they often require advance booking and can be expensive, potentially posing a financial burden for patients. The “Lung Cancer Score” needs to weigh these options.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Action:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Westport, MA (ZIP Code 02790) would be a composite metric, taking into account the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Average travel time to the nearest hospitals (Charlton Memorial, St. Luke's) under normal and peak traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Availability, frequency, and ADA compliance of SRTA bus routes.
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** Reliability and expense of Uber/Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability, cost, and accessibility of specialized medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Specialized Cancer Centers:** Travel time to facilities offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.

Based on this analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Westport would likely reflect a moderate level of healthcare access. While residents have access to hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transit and the potential for travel delays, particularly during peak hours, pose challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport adds to the overall cost and complexity of accessing care.

**Moving to Westport: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals considering moving to Westport, understanding the implications of healthcare access is paramount. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the relative isolation and limited transportation options necessitate careful consideration, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of cancer. Prospective residents should factor in the potential for longer travel times to medical appointments, the cost of transportation, and the availability of support services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the healthcare landscape in Westport. It highlights the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care. This includes having a reliable vehicle, exploring ride-sharing options, and potentially utilizing medical transport services when necessary.

In conclusion, while Westport offers a tranquil and appealing environment, the limitations in transportation options and healthcare access must be carefully considered. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensuring a smoother journey to recovery, should the need arise. The beauty of Westport is undeniable, but the practicality of healthcare access is a vital consideration for anyone contemplating a move to this charming coastal community.