02861, Pawtucket, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02861, Pawtucket, Rhode Island is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.00 percent of residents in 02861 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Miriam Hospital with a distance of 3.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pawtucket, RI (ZIP Code 02861)

Relocating to a new community, especially when considering health needs, demands a comprehensive understanding of available resources. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 02861 (Pawtucket, Rhode Island), provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating healthcare access for individuals facing or concerned about lung cancer. It considers transportation options, a critical element in timely diagnosis and treatment, to determine the ease of reaching essential medical facilities. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to Pawtucket, enabling informed decisions about their healthcare access.

Pawtucket, a city steeped in history, offers a blend of urban and suburban living. Its location, nestled along the Blackstone River and bordering Massachusetts, provides diverse opportunities for residents. However, the city's healthcare landscape, especially concerning lung cancer care, requires careful examination, particularly regarding transportation. This assessment aims to illuminate the pathways to healthcare, emphasizing the crucial role of transportation in navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing specialized lung cancer care. This score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, providing a holistic view of the transportation landscape. It acknowledges that timely access to healthcare is paramount in lung cancer management, impacting both survival rates and quality of life.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. Several hospitals and specialized cancer centers are within a reasonable driving distance from Pawtucket. The proximity to major roadways significantly influences drive times.

Rhode Island Hospital, a major healthcare provider with a comprehensive cancer center, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Interstate 95 (I-95) South. This route, while generally efficient, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. The Rhode Island Hospital Cancer Center offers multidisciplinary care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, making it a crucial destination for lung cancer patients.

Another option is The Miriam Hospital, also located in Providence, which is accessible via I-95 South. The drive time is similar to Rhode Island Hospital, around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The Miriam Hospital also has a strong cancer program, providing a range of services.

For those seeking care in Massachusetts, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, a world-renowned cancer center, is accessible via I-95 North and I-90 East (Massachusetts Turnpike). The drive time is considerably longer, typically around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, especially during rush hour. This longer travel time highlights the importance of planning and considering potential delays.

Accessing these facilities by car requires careful consideration of traffic patterns, parking availability, and the physical limitations of the patient. The efficiency of the transportation network directly impacts the patient's ability to receive timely care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides public transportation services within Pawtucket and the surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the city, offering an alternative to driving.

Route 1, a major RIPTA route, connects Pawtucket to Providence, providing access to Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital. The travel time on Route 1 can vary, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops. Route 1 is also the busiest route, so patients should be prepared for crowded buses.

Route 99 provides another connection to Providence, offering an alternative route to the hospitals. The travel time is similar to Route 1, around 30-45 minutes.

RIPTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and priority seating, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, may be limited, potentially impacting the convenience of public transit.

While public transit offers a cost-effective alternative, it may not be ideal for all lung cancer patients. The longer travel times, multiple transfers, and potential for exposure to environmental factors can pose challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Support**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option. These services offer door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel time and eliminating the need for parking. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited service.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and CareRide, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, catering to the specific needs of patients with mobility limitations. While these services offer a valuable resource, they typically come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing.

The availability and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. These services can bridge the gap in transportation, ensuring that patients can attend their appointments and receive the necessary care.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Summary**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 02861 reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While major hospitals and cancer centers are within a reasonable driving distance, traffic congestion can impact travel times. Public transit offers a cost-effective alternative, but longer travel times and potential accessibility challenges must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide supplemental support, but availability and cost may be limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Pawtucket, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors such as their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their financial resources should be considered when evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score." The proximity to major hospitals and cancer centers, combined with the availability of various transportation options, suggests that healthcare access is generally feasible. However, careful planning and consideration of individual needs are crucial for ensuring timely and convenient access to care. The availability of transportation directly affects the quality of life and the ability to receive the best possible care for lung cancer.