02476, Arlington, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02476, Arlington, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.55 percent of residents in 02476 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Auburn Hospital with a distance of 3.53 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Arlington, MA (ZIP Code 02476)

Considering a move to Arlington, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02476) and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer screening and treatment? This write-up offers a comprehensive “Prostate Cancer Score” analysis, focusing on transportation options to and from medical facilities, crucial for timely appointments and peace of mind. We'll delve into drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of healthcare accessibility in this desirable Boston suburb.

The proximity to Boston offers a wealth of medical resources, but getting there efficiently is paramount. For men facing prostate cancer concerns, the ability to reach specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities with minimal stress is a significant factor in their overall well-being. This analysis considers the practicalities of transportation, evaluating the “Prostate Cancer Score” based on the ease and reliability of getting to these vital healthcare destinations.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Arlington’s location offers both advantages and challenges regarding transportation. Several major roadways provide access to Boston-area hospitals. The most direct route to many medical centers in Boston is via **Massachusetts Avenue**, a major thoroughfare that can become congested during peak hours. Expect drive times to vary significantly depending on the time of day.

For example, a trip to Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston via Massachusetts Avenue could take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, reaching Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) in the Longwood Medical Area might take 30 to 60 minutes.

Alternatively, **Route 2** offers another route, often less congested than Massachusetts Avenue, especially for destinations west of the city. This highway provides access to facilities like Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, a potential option for some specialized treatments. Drive times to Lahey from Arlington are generally shorter, around 15 to 25 minutes. However, Route 2 can experience its own rush-hour bottlenecks.

**Route 16** and **Route 60** provide additional options, though they are generally slower and less direct. These routes are useful for accessing hospitals in surrounding communities, such as Winchester Hospital, which might be a convenient choice depending on the specific healthcare needs.

Navigating these roadways requires careful planning, especially for regular appointments. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers the reliability of these drive times, factoring in potential delays due to traffic, construction, and accidents.

**Public Transit: A Viable Alternative:**

Arlington boasts a robust public transit system, offering a valuable alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer to avoid the stress of navigating Boston traffic. The **MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority)** provides bus and subway services.

The **Red Line subway** is the most direct public transit option to Boston. The Alewife station, located at the end of the Red Line, is easily accessible from Arlington via bus routes or a short drive. From Alewife, the Red Line provides quick access to downtown Boston, including hospitals like MGH and BIDMC. The Red Line is generally reliable, though occasional delays can occur.

Several MBTA bus routes serve Arlington, connecting residents to the Red Line and other destinations. **Bus Route 80** is a key route, connecting Arlington Center to Lechmere Station, providing access to the Green Line. **Bus Route 77** offers another option, connecting Arlington to Harvard Square, where riders can transfer to the Red Line.

The MBTA strives to provide ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on its buses and subway stations. However, accessibility can vary depending on the specific station and route. Prospective residents with mobility limitations should thoroughly research the accessibility features of the routes and stations they would use.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" weighs the convenience and reliability of public transit, considering factors like frequency of service, travel time, and accessibility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are readily available in Arlington and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly useful for appointments when driving is not feasible or when public transit schedules are inconvenient. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients with specific needs. **CareLink** and **LogistiCare** are among the medical transport providers serving the Boston area. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. They are often covered by insurance, making them a valuable option for individuals who require assistance with mobility.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, recognizing their importance in ensuring access to healthcare.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

Arlington itself offers some primary care practices and specialty clinics, but for comprehensive prostate cancer care, residents typically need to travel to Boston-area hospitals. MGH, BIDMC, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute are renowned for their expertise in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The proximity to these world-class medical facilities is a significant advantage for Arlington residents. However, the ability to reach these facilities efficiently is crucial. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers the accessibility of these key medical destinations, factoring in the transportation options discussed above.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" Summary:**

In evaluating the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 02476, several factors are considered. The availability of multiple transportation options – driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport – contributes positively to the score. The proximity to major medical centers in Boston is also a significant advantage.

However, the potential for traffic congestion, particularly on Massachusetts Avenue, and the variability in public transit schedules can negatively impact the score. The accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is also a critical factor.

Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Arlington (02476) is favorable. While driving can be challenging, the robust public transit system, the availability of ride-sharing, and the proximity to world-class medical facilities provide residents with multiple options for accessing essential healthcare services. Planning ahead, utilizing real-time traffic information, and considering all available transportation options are key to maximizing healthcare access and minimizing stress.