02892, West Kingston, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02892, West Kingston, Rhode Island is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.63 percent of residents in 02892 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South County Hospital Inc with a distance of 6.41 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Kingston, RI (ZIP Code 02892)

The quaint village of West Kingston, Rhode Island, nestled within the 02892 ZIP code, offers a serene New England charm. However, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a unique set of challenges concerning healthcare access. This write-up, a “Lung Cancer Score” analysis, assesses the transportation landscape, a critical factor in determining the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This is especially pertinent for anyone considering moving to West Kingston, where understanding the transportation infrastructure is crucial for informed healthcare decisions.

The “Lung Cancer Score” focuses on the practical realities of getting to and from appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. It considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all interwoven to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the transportation hurdles faced by individuals battling lung cancer in this specific geographic area.

The primary artery for automobile travel in and out of West Kingston is **Route 138**. This road provides a direct connection to the major medical centers in the state, including those in Providence and South County. Driving to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a leading cancer treatment facility, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, can significantly extend this travel time, adding to the stress already inherent in a cancer diagnosis.

South County Hospital, located in Wakefield, is a closer option, usually reachable within a 20-30 minute drive. This hospital also offers cancer care, providing a more convenient alternative for some residents. The journey to South County Hospital primarily utilizes **Route 1** (also known as the Boston Post Road), a major north-south thoroughfare. However, traffic on Route 1 can be unpredictable, particularly during the summer months when tourists flock to the nearby beaches.

**Route 95**, a major interstate highway, offers another route to Providence. However, this option requires navigating local roads to access the highway and then dealing with potential traffic bottlenecks. While the interstate might seem like a faster option, the added complexity of getting to and from the highway can negate any time savings, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in West Kingston are limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service in the area. **Route 64** is the most relevant bus route, connecting West Kingston to the Kingston Amtrak station and other points in South County. While this route offers a connection to the wider transportation network, it is not a direct route to any major hospitals.

The bus routes are not designed for frequent trips to medical appointments. The schedules are often infrequent, and the travel times can be lengthy, making them unsuitable for patients undergoing frequent treatments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration. RIPTA does offer accessible buses on all routes, but individuals with mobility issues should verify availability and plan their trips accordingly, often requiring advance notice.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the West Kingston area. However, their reliability and cost can vary significantly. During off-peak hours, or in inclement weather, securing a ride can be challenging, potentially delaying or even preventing access to medical appointments. The cost of these services can also be a financial burden, especially for patients undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized option. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require pre-booking and may be covered by insurance, but availability and coverage should be verified in advance.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for West Kingston, 02892, reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While the proximity to South County Hospital provides a more convenient option, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some relief, but their cost and reliability must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to West Kingston, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare services. The drive times to Providence and South County Hospital should be factored into the decision-making process, as should the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not a static measure; it is a dynamic assessment. Changes in traffic patterns, public transportation schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing services can impact the score. Therefore, residents and potential newcomers should regularly reassess their transportation options and plan accordingly.

In conclusion, while West Kingston offers a desirable quality of life, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals battling lung cancer. The need for reliable and accessible transportation to medical appointments is paramount. Careful planning, proactive research, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances are crucial for navigating the healthcare system in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community. The accessibility of healthcare, dependent on reliable transportation, is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to West Kingston.