02910, Cranston, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02910, Cranston, Rhode Island is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.64 percent of residents in 02910 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Women & Infants Hospital Of Rhode Island with a distance of 2.50 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cranston, RI (ZIP Code 02910)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis hangs heavy, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. This write-up assesses the ease of reaching essential medical facilities from Cranston, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02910), providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options. This score is crucial for residents, prospective movers, and anyone seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access within this community. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the journey to vital care.

The primary concern is timely access to oncologists, pulmonologists, diagnostic imaging centers, and radiation therapy facilities. A high "Lung Cancer Score" indicates convenient and efficient transportation options, potentially improving patient outcomes. Conversely, a low score signals potential challenges, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and awareness.

**Driving to Care:**

Cranston's central location offers relatively straightforward access to major healthcare providers. The proximity to Interstate 95 (I-95), a vital artery, significantly influences drive times. Rhode Island Hospital, a major cancer center, is accessible via I-95 North, typically requiring a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic. This is a key factor in our scoring.

Another crucial route is Route 10, connecting Cranston to the west side of Providence. This road offers access to multiple medical facilities, including The Miriam Hospital, another important cancer treatment center. Drive times along Route 10 are generally 10-20 minutes, depending on the specific location within Cranston and the destination. Congestion during peak hours, particularly on Route 10 and around the I-95 interchanges, is a significant consideration.

Furthermore, the intricate network of local roads, such as Reservoir Avenue, Cranston Street, and Park Avenue, provides alternative routes. However, these can be slower due to traffic lights and local congestion. The presence of these alternative routes, though slower, contributes to the overall resilience of the transportation network.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service throughout Cranston. Several routes serve the area, including the 1, 2, 3, 6, 19, 20, and 21. These routes connect Cranston to Providence and other surrounding areas, offering a potentially affordable transportation option. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a major limitation.

The journey to major hospitals via public transit can be time-consuming. A trip to Rhode Island Hospital from central Cranston via bus routes could take 45 minutes to an hour, including transfers. The same is true for The Miriam Hospital. This extended travel time is a significant concern for patients requiring frequent appointments or facing emergencies.

RIPTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and priority seating. This is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. However, the overall efficiency of public transit, especially considering the need for timely healthcare access, presents a challenge.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Cranston. These services offer a more convenient alternative to public transit, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those needing to travel during off-peak hours. Ride-sharing can reduce travel times compared to public transit, offering door-to-door service.

The cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments. However, the convenience and flexibility it provides are valuable. The availability of ride-sharing is a positive factor, contributing to the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, are also available. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are specifically tailored to the needs of patients, providing a more comfortable and supportive transportation experience.

The cost of medical transport can be higher than ride-sharing, but it often includes assistance from trained personnel. The availability of these specialized services is a critical factor, especially for patients with significant mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport.

**Scoring the Landscape:**

Based on these factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 02910 is moderately favorable. The proximity to major hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services are positive aspects. The challenges lie in the reliance on driving, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Proximity to Hospitals:** Excellent. Access to Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital is relatively easy via I-95 and Route 10.
* **Drive Times:** Generally good, but subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. Routes are available, but travel times can be lengthy, and frequency is a concern.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Available and convenient, but cost is a factor.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, offering specialized services, but at a potentially higher cost.

**Recommendations:**

For residents of 02910, planning transportation to medical appointments is crucial. Consider traffic patterns when scheduling appointments and factor in travel time. Explore ride-sharing options and medical transport services, especially if mobility is a concern.

For those considering moving to Cranston, assess your individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences. The availability of various transportation options offers flexibility, but careful planning is essential. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a valuable starting point for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

The ongoing development of transportation infrastructure and the potential for expanded public transit services could further enhance the "Lung Cancer Score" in the future. Continuous monitoring of these factors is essential for ensuring that residents of Cranston have timely and reliable access to the vital healthcare services they need. This is especially important when dealing with a diagnosis of lung cancer.