02149, Everett, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02149, Everett, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.97 percent of residents in 02149 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Massachusetts General Hospital with a distance of 3.55 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02149

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious diagnosis like prostate cancer, is often fraught with anxiety. This is especially true when considering the logistical hurdles of transportation. For residents of Everett, Massachusetts, specifically within the 02149 ZIP code, assessing healthcare access requires a detailed examination of transportation options. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for this area, evaluating the ease of reaching critical medical services, including urology specialists, radiation oncology, and surgical centers, essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers several factors: drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport options. Each element contributes to a comprehensive understanding of how easily residents can access the healthcare they need. This analysis focuses on facilities known for prostate cancer care within a reasonable radius of Everett, offering a practical guide for those living in or considering moving to this vibrant community.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many, the quickest route to healthcare involves a personal vehicle. The 02149 ZIP code benefits from proximity to major roadways. Accessing Boston-area hospitals is relatively straightforward. The primary thoroughfare is the **Route 99**, which runs north-south through Everett, providing direct access to Boston.

Heading south on **Route 99** allows for easy access to **Mass General Hospital (MGH)** in Boston, a leading center for prostate cancer treatment. The drive, during off-peak hours, is typically 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, emphasizing the importance of planning and flexibility.

Another key route is **Route 16**, which intersects **Route 99** and provides access to hospitals in the Cambridge area, including **Mount Auburn Hospital**. Drive times here are comparable, around 20-25 minutes in ideal traffic. However, the unpredictability of Boston traffic demands careful consideration when scheduling appointments, especially for treatments that require precise timing.

The **Interstate 93 (I-93)**, accessible via **Route 99**, offers a faster, though often congested, route to hospitals further south, including those in the Longwood Medical Area. While I-93 can be quicker, the potential for delays due to accidents or heavy traffic is significant. Therefore, driving times can fluctuate dramatically, making it a less reliable option.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides public transit options for residents of 02149. The **Orange Line** subway offers a direct route to downtown Boston, including access to several hospitals. The **Wellington Station** on the Orange Line is conveniently located near Everett, making it a viable option for many residents.

From Wellington Station, patients can transfer to other subway lines or utilize the MBTA bus system to reach their desired medical facilities. The Orange Line offers relatively frequent service, with trains typically arriving every 5-10 minutes during peak hours. However, the journey to downtown Boston can take 20-30 minutes, excluding transfer times.

The MBTA bus network also serves Everett, with several routes connecting to various hospitals and medical centers. The **Route 99** bus provides a direct link to downtown Boston, while other routes connect to neighboring communities and healthcare facilities. The MBTA strives to provide accessible transportation, with all buses and subway stations equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps, elevators, and accessible seating. However, the reliability of public transit can be affected by weather conditions and unforeseen delays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another layer of transportation options. These services are readily available in the 02149 ZIP code and can be a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who prefer door-to-door service. Ride-sharing can be especially useful for appointments that require a quick and direct trip.

However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate based on demand, potentially making them less affordable than public transit for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can be affected by driver availability, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited coverage.

Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to patients with medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **LogistiCare** offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often work with insurance providers and can be a valuable resource for patients who require assistance with mobility or have difficulty navigating public transit.

**Evaluating the "Prostate Cancer Score"**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 02149 is a nuanced assessment. While the area benefits from access to major roadways and a well-established public transit system, the unpredictable nature of Boston traffic and potential delays on public transit must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options, but their cost and availability can vary.

For residents considering moving to Everett, healthcare access is a crucial factor. The proximity to Boston-area hospitals, coupled with the availability of multiple transportation options, makes 02149 a relatively accessible area for prostate cancer care. However, careful planning and consideration of individual needs are essential.

The score would reflect a moderate level of accessibility. Driving offers the quickest routes, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. Public transit provides a reliable alternative, particularly for those who prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer additional flexibility and support. Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for 02149 suggests that while healthcare access is available, careful planning and consideration of individual transportation needs are crucial for navigating the journey to diagnosis and treatment.