02186, Milton, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02186, Milton, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.07 percent of residents in 02186 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital - Milton with a distance of 2.14 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milton, MA (ZIP Code 02186)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as prostate cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates reliable **transportation** and easy **healthcare access**. For residents of Milton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02186), understanding the landscape of getting to and from medical appointments is crucial. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering the available options for those needing treatment, from initial screenings to complex therapies. If you're **moving to Milton**, this is essential information.

Milton, a charming suburb just south of Boston, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban proximity. This juxtaposition significantly impacts **transportation** choices. The town’s location, nestled between the Neponset River and the Blue Hills Reservation, shapes the routes available for reaching medical facilities. The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Milton considers the drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services available to its residents.

The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the Southeast Expressway (I-93) and Route 1. The drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers vary significantly depending on traffic. During peak hours, the commute to Boston's Longwood Medical Area, home to world-renowned institutions like Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, can stretch to an hour or more via I-93. Conversely, a trip to South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, often a more accessible option, might take 20-30 minutes via Route 18 or I-93, depending on traffic.

Navigating the local roadways is a key factor. Washington Street, the main thoroughfare, offers access to local medical practices and pharmacies. However, its congestion can be a challenge. Other important roads include Brush Hill Road, Canton Avenue, and Blue Hill Avenue, each offering different routes and traffic considerations. The "Prostate Cancer Score" acknowledges that travel times are dynamic and should be considered in relation to the urgency of appointments and the patient's physical condition.

Public **transportation** offers an alternative, although it presents its own set of considerations. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides bus and commuter rail services. The Mattapan Line, a branch of the Red Line, provides a direct connection to the Longwood Medical Area, though it requires a transfer at Ashmont Station. The bus routes serving Milton, primarily the 240, 245, and 247, connect to the Red Line and other key areas.

These bus routes, while offering **healthcare access**, may not always be ideal for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The travel times can be lengthy, and the potential for transfers adds complexity. The MBTA is committed to providing ADA-compliant services, with accessible buses and stations. However, the availability of elevators and ramps can vary, and patients with mobility limitations need to carefully plan their journeys. The "Prostate Cancer Score" takes into account the need for accessible **transportation** options.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Milton. They offer a convenient door-to-door service, especially for those unable to drive or use public transit. However, the cost can be a significant factor, and surge pricing during peak hours can make these options expensive. Medical **transportation** services, such as CareWell Transportation and MedRide, specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, making them a good option for patients with specific needs.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" also considers the availability of local medical practices and specialists. Milton has a number of primary care physicians and specialists, including urologists, who can provide initial screenings and consultations. However, for advanced treatments like radiation therapy or complex surgeries, patients often need to travel to larger hospitals in Boston or the South Shore. The proximity of these facilities, and the ease of **healthcare access**, is a key element in this score.

The choice of where to seek treatment is a personal one, influenced by factors like insurance coverage, physician recommendations, and personal preferences. The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a ranking of hospitals or doctors, but rather an assessment of the **transportation** challenges and opportunities facing residents of Milton. The goal is to provide prospective patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care.

For those **moving to Milton**, understanding these **transportation** options is essential. The town offers a high quality of life, but the **healthcare access** landscape requires careful consideration. The "Prostate Cancer Score" encourages proactive planning, including researching **transportation** options, understanding insurance coverage, and establishing a support network.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" also acknowledges the importance of caregiver support. Family members and friends often play a vital role in providing **transportation** and assistance to patients. The availability of these support networks is a crucial factor in the overall well-being of patients. The score considers the practical implications of **healthcare access** and the challenges faced by patients and their loved ones.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Milton (ZIP Code 02186) reflects the town's unique blend of suburban living and urban proximity. While the town offers a variety of **transportation** options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services, the challenges of navigating traffic, particularly during peak hours, should not be underestimated. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, including researching **transportation** alternatives, establishing a support network, and considering the specific needs of each patient. This assessment is designed to empower residents of Milton with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of **healthcare access** and ensure they receive the best possible care. The score is a dynamic assessment, encouraging individuals to consider their own needs and circumstances when making decisions about their health.