02817, West Greenwich, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02817, West Greenwich, Rhode Island is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.06 percent of residents in 02817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kent County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.39 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 02817**

Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access, especially when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, demands a thorough understanding of transportation options. For residents of West Greenwich, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02817), this understanding is paramount. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare services based on various transportation modalities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit routes, ride-share availability, and medical transport options, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking care.

West Greenwich, a town characterized by its rural charm and sprawling landscapes, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary means of personal transportation is the automobile. The nearest major hospitals and cancer centers are located in Providence and surrounding areas, necessitating a reliance on roadways.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The journey to healthcare facilities in Providence from West Greenwich involves a combination of state and interstate highways. The primary route is typically via Route 3, a two-lane road that winds through the heart of West Greenwich. This road connects to Route 95, a major north-south interstate.

Traffic conditions on Route 3 can vary, particularly during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to the commute. Once on Route 95, the drive to Providence is generally smoother, although congestion around the city is common. The drive to Rhode Island Hospital, a major healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive to other facilities, such as the Miriam Hospital or the Lifespan Cancer Institute, may take a similar amount of time.

The roadways themselves are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present challenges, potentially impacting drive times and safety. Residents should always check traffic conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on a medical appointment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in West Greenwich are limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but the routes serving West Greenwich are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to larger towns and cities.

The primary RIPTA route serving West Greenwich is Route 66, which runs between Providence and Putnam Pike in Smithfield. This route offers limited service, with buses running at intervals of approximately one to two hours. This route is not a direct route to any major healthcare facility. Passengers would need to transfer to other routes in Providence.

For individuals with mobility limitations, ADA-accessible buses are available. However, the infrequency of service and the need for transfers make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many patients, especially those undergoing cancer treatment. The long travel times and the potential for delays can be particularly burdensome for individuals experiencing fatigue or other side effects of treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in West Greenwich. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Residents should plan their rides in advance, especially for appointments scheduled during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening.

Medical transport services are also available, offering specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including AMR (American Medical Response) and local private providers.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a significant factor, especially for patients with limited financial resources. Patients should explore all available options, including financial assistance programs, to help cover the cost of transportation.

**Healthcare Access and the "Lung Cancer Score"**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of 02817 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport create a complex landscape.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, can be a source of stress and inconvenience. The limited public transit options restrict access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a barrier to care for some.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 02817 might be considered moderate. While healthcare facilities are within reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transit and the potential for transportation costs to be a burden indicate that healthcare access is not ideal.

**Moving to West Greenwich: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to West Greenwich, the availability of healthcare access should be a key consideration. The rural nature of the town, while offering certain advantages, presents challenges in terms of transportation to medical appointments.

Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of transportation options. Those who rely on public transit or who have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare services.

The proximity of healthcare facilities in Providence and surrounding areas is a positive factor. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays should be taken into account.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in West Greenwich, particularly when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the limited public transit and the potential for transportation costs to be a burden create challenges. Residents should be aware of the various transportation options available, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, and plan their transportation accordingly. For those considering moving to West Greenwich, the availability of healthcare access should be a key consideration. The "Lung Cancer Score" for 02817 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation challenges.