02852, North Kingstown, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02852, North Kingstown, Rhode Island is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.59 percent of residents in 02852 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kent County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.97 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02852

Considering a move to North Kingstown, Rhode Island, ZIP code 02852? Understanding your access to healthcare, particularly for a serious illness like lung cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this disease. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering insights into your potential healthcare access within this community.

The journey to healthcare in 02852 begins with understanding the geography. North Kingstown, a coastal town, offers a blend of suburban and rural landscapes. The primary artery is **Route 4**, a major highway connecting the area to Providence and the wider state. **Route 1** provides another key north-south corridor, while local roads like **Post Road** and **Ten Rod Road** serve as essential connectors. These roads dictate the flow of daily life and, crucially, the ease of accessing medical care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment. It considers the time, cost, and convenience of reaching specialized medical facilities. A higher score indicates better access, meaning shorter travel times, more transportation options, and greater affordability. This score is a tool to inform your decision, not a definitive judgment.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in this area. For lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, the primary destinations are hospitals and specialized cancer centers. The **Kent Hospital** in Warwick, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 4 and I-95, offers comprehensive cancer care. **Rhode Island Hospital** in Providence, a more extensive facility with specialized oncology departments, is reachable in about 30-45 minutes, also primarily via Route 4 and I-95.

Traffic conditions can significantly impact these drive times. Rush hour, particularly on Route 4 and I-95, can add considerable delays. Considering the potential need for frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, these delays could affect the overall quality of life for a patient. Therefore, the availability of alternative transportation options is crucial.

Public transportation in 02852 is provided by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA). Several bus routes serve the area, including the **60 (Providence/Wickford)** and the **64 (Providence/North Kingstown)**. These routes offer access to Providence, where you can connect to other routes serving hospitals. However, the frequency of these buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

Furthermore, the accessibility of RIPTA buses is a critical factor. All RIPTA buses are ADA-accessible, meaning they are equipped with ramps or lifts for passengers with disabilities. However, the overall travel time on public transit is considerably longer than driving. A trip to Rhode Island Hospital from North Kingstown could take over an hour, potentially involving multiple transfers.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 02852. They offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive themselves. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially with frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, might also be a concern.

Medical transportation services offer specialized support for patients needing assistance. Companies like **Care Ride** and **First Transit** provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service and are designed to accommodate patients with mobility issues. While they provide a valuable service, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 02852, therefore, presents a mixed picture. Driving offers the fastest access to healthcare facilities, but traffic and parking can be challenging. Public transit provides a more affordable option but requires longer travel times and potential transfers. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be expensive. Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance but are the most costly.

For someone considering moving to North Kingstown, the "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of individual circumstances. Factors like the stage of cancer, treatment requirements, mobility limitations, and financial resources will influence the best transportation choices. Proximity to Route 4 is a significant advantage, as it provides the quickest route to major medical centers.

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score," the community could benefit from expanded public transit options, including more frequent service and direct routes to medical facilities. Increased awareness of medical transportation services and potential financial assistance programs would also be beneficial.

Ultimately, the decision to move to 02852 requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. This "Lung Cancer Score" provides a starting point for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on the ability to receive timely and effective care. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and understanding the available resources before making a move. The availability of healthcare is a vital component of the overall quality of life, especially when facing a life-altering diagnosis.