02911, North Providence, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02911, North Providence, Rhode Island is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.41 percent of residents in 02911 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Fatima Hospital with a distance of 1.34 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02911

Moving to a new area, especially when considering healthcare needs, requires a thorough understanding of local resources. This analysis focuses on transportation access to lung cancer specialists and treatment centers for residents of ZIP code 02911 (North Providence, Rhode Island), offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on commute times and available transportation options. This score will help individuals assess healthcare access, a crucial factor when contemplating a relocation.

The Lung Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It aims to provide a comprehensive picture of how easily residents can reach essential healthcare services. This is particularly critical for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, where timely access to specialists and treatments can significantly impact outcomes.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary arteries for transportation in and around 02911 are the major highways and local roads. Interstate 95 (I-95) is the dominant north-south route, offering a direct link to Providence and its numerous healthcare facilities. Traveling south on I-95, you can reach Rhode Island Hospital, a major cancer treatment center, in approximately 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours. However, rush hour can significantly increase this commute, potentially doubling the travel time.

Route 146, another critical roadway, provides a direct route into Providence and connects with I-95. This route offers access to various medical centers, including the Miriam Hospital, also known for its cancer care. The time to the Miriam Hospital via Route 146 is typically 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions.

Local roads like Smithfield Avenue and Mineral Spring Avenue offer alternative routes, though they are often subject to congestion, especially during peak hours. These roads may provide access to smaller clinics and medical offices closer to home. Driving times on these roads can vary significantly depending on traffic, but generally range from 10-20 minutes to reach Providence-based hospitals.

The Lung Cancer Score will consider these drive times, factoring in potential delays caused by traffic, accidents, and road construction. The score will also reflect the availability of parking at each healthcare facility, a crucial consideration for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides public transportation services in the 02911 area. Several bus routes serve North Providence, connecting residents to Providence and other surrounding communities. These routes can be a viable option for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive.

Route 19 (Smithfield Avenue) is a key bus route, offering frequent service along Smithfield Avenue, providing access to Providence and its medical facilities. The travel time on Route 19 to downtown Providence can range from 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops.

Route 28 (Mineral Spring Avenue) is another important route, providing access to Providence and connecting with other bus lines. The travel time on Route 28 is similar to Route 19, typically taking 30-45 minutes to reach downtown.

RIPTA buses are generally accessible, with features like ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be limited, potentially affecting healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score will account for the frequency and accessibility of RIPTA routes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the 02911 area, offering an on-demand transportation option. These services can be particularly useful for appointments, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day, distance, and demand. The travel time to Providence-based hospitals via ride-sharing is generally comparable to driving times, but the cost can be a factor. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, are also available. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients.

Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including companies that specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. The Lung Cancer Score will include the availability and accessibility of medical transport services.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for 02911 will be a composite metric, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach major cancer treatment centers in Providence, considering peak and off-peak traffic.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, accessibility, and travel time of RIPTA bus routes to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The availability and estimated cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Parking Availability:** The ease of parking at healthcare facilities.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access. This score will provide a valuable tool for residents of 02911, especially those considering a move or facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Moving to North Providence: A Holistic Perspective**

When contemplating a move to North Providence, understanding healthcare access is paramount. The Lung Cancer Score offers a starting point for evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While the area offers a range of transportation options, the reliance on Providence for specialized cancer care emphasizes the importance of considering commute times and the availability of alternative transportation methods.

This analysis highlights the need for a comprehensive approach when evaluating a new location, considering not just the quality of life but also the practicalities of accessing essential healthcare services. The Lung Cancer Score aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions, ensuring they can navigate the transportation complexities and receive timely and effective care.