02891, Westerly, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02891, Westerly, Rhode Island is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.64 percent of residents in 02891 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Westerly Hospital with a distance of 1.53 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westerly, RI (ZIP Code 02891)

Relocating to Westerly, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02891), presents a unique set of considerations, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the ease of reaching crucial medical services for individuals potentially facing a lung cancer diagnosis. It evaluates transportation options, a critical factor in timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering a move or already residing in this coastal community.

The primary concern for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment is rapid access to specialized care. Delays can significantly impact prognosis. Therefore, this assessment prioritizes transportation options to facilities offering oncology services, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The analysis focuses on the distances and accessibility challenges that residents of 02891 might encounter.

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation in Westerly. The primary route for accessing healthcare in the region involves navigating the major thoroughfares. Driving to the closest comprehensive cancer center, the Westerly Hospital, located within the town, is generally straightforward. From most points within 02891, one can expect a drive time of under 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity is a significant advantage, offering relatively quick access to initial diagnostics and some treatment options.

However, for more specialized care, patients often need to travel outside of Westerly. The most common destination for advanced oncology services is the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, approximately 50 miles away. The most direct route involves taking **Route 1** north, transitioning onto **I-95 North**. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take around an hour and 15 minutes. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend this commute, potentially pushing travel times to two hours or more.

Another potential destination is the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, approximately 100 miles away. This journey involves taking **I-95 North** to **I-90 East (Massachusetts Turnpike)**. The drive time can range from two to three hours, depending on traffic conditions, making this a significantly more demanding journey for patients undergoing treatment.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service in the region. Route 60, a key route, connects Westerly to Providence. However, this route primarily serves local communities and is not designed for swift travel to medical facilities. The trip to Providence on Route 60 can take up to three hours, making it an impractical option for many cancer patients. Accessibility features on RIPTA buses include ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, ensuring ADA compliance.

Furthermore, the frequency of service on Route 60, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited. This lack of frequent service presents a significant challenge for patients needing regular appointments or facing unexpected medical needs. The reliance on a single route to access healthcare in Providence highlights the limitations of public transit in this area.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Westerly, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, particularly for frequent trips to Providence or Boston. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a potential barrier to timely healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for patients unable to drive or utilize public transit. Westerly Hospital provides ambulance services. Several private companies offer NEMT services, transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle patients with mobility limitations. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Westerly, RI (02891) reveals a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. While the proximity to Westerly Hospital offers a significant advantage for initial diagnostics and some treatment, the reliance on driving for specialized care presents challenges. The long distances to comprehensive cancer centers in Providence and Boston, coupled with the limitations of public transit, can create difficulties for patients.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides additional options, but their cost and reliability must be considered. Individuals contemplating a move to Westerly, or those already residing there, should carefully assess their transportation needs and the potential impact on their healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Westerly, understanding these transportation challenges is vital. Planning for potential long commutes, exploring medical transport options, and considering the financial implications of ride-sharing services are crucial steps. Evaluating healthcare access is an essential part of the decision-making process.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While Westerly offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, prospective residents should be aware of the transportation hurdles that may impact their ability to receive timely and effective cancer care. Understanding these challenges is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare and ensuring a positive quality of life.