02638, Dennis, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.85 percent of residents in 02638 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Falmouth Hospital with a distance of 9.25 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dennis, MA (ZIP Code 02638)

The tranquil beauty of Dennis, Massachusetts, with its salt-laced air and quintessential Cape Cod charm, often beckons those seeking a slower pace of life. Yet, the idyllic setting presents unique considerations, especially when it comes to healthcare access. This write-up explores the Prostate Cancer Score for residents of ZIP Code 02638, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. For anyone contemplating a move to Dennis or currently residing there, understanding the ease of reaching specialized medical care, particularly for prostate cancer, is paramount.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment necessitate regular appointments, from initial consultations to radiation therapy or surgery, and follow-up visits. The ability to readily access these services, without undue stress or logistical hurdles, significantly impacts a patient’s overall well-being and treatment adherence. This score considers the various transportation options available, factoring in drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility.

Dennis, a town characterized by its coastal location and seasonal influx of visitors, presents unique transportation challenges. While the summer months bring vibrant energy, they also contribute to increased traffic congestion, potentially lengthening travel times to medical appointments. The primary roadways serving Dennis are Route 6A, a scenic byway hugging the north shore, and Route 28, the more direct route connecting Dennis to other Cape Cod towns. Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway, provides the most efficient access to regional medical centers, but can experience significant delays during peak travel times.

For those relying on personal vehicles, drive times to key healthcare providers are crucial. Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, approximately 20 miles from Dennis, is the closest major medical facility offering comprehensive cancer care, including urology and oncology services. A typical drive along Route 6 can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey to Falmouth Hospital, roughly 35 miles away, may take up to an hour. Boston, with its renowned medical institutions, is a much longer drive, typically requiring two to three hours, making it less practical for routine appointments.

Public transportation options in Dennis are limited. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates the Flex Route, a demand-response service, but its coverage in Dennis is restricted. The CCRTA also offers fixed-route bus service on the Route 13 and Route 11, but these services are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly connect to major medical facilities. ADA accessibility is available on all CCRTA buses, providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and limited routes may render public transit impractical for many patients, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Dennis, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, the cost can accumulate quickly, especially for multiple appointments. Medical transport services, like LogistiCare and ModivCare, may be available for eligible patients, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance or type of medical facility they serve.

Healthcare access for prostate cancer patients in Dennis is significantly influenced by transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of traffic patterns and potential delays. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services can pose challenges for those without access to a car or unable to drive. The distance to major medical centers, particularly those in Boston, adds another layer of complexity.

Moving to Dennis, or any location, requires a holistic assessment of healthcare access. For prostate cancer patients, this involves evaluating the proximity to specialized medical facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the availability of support services. A high Prostate Cancer Score indicates easy access to care, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

The Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 02638 is influenced by the need to navigate the Mid-Cape Highway, Route 6, to reach Cape Cod Hospital. The drive time, typically 30-45 minutes, is a significant factor. The limited public transportation options, the infrequent service of the CCRTA, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further impact the score. The distance to Boston, a two-to-three-hour drive, reduces the score further.

The availability of medical transport services may provide some relief, but their eligibility requirements and potential limitations must be considered. The seasonal influx of visitors, which increases traffic congestion, also affects the score. Ultimately, the Prostate Cancer Score for Dennis reflects the need for careful planning and proactive strategies to ensure consistent and timely access to prostate cancer care.

Therefore, for individuals considering a move to Dennis, or those already residing there, a thorough understanding of these transportation considerations is essential. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and establishing a reliable transportation strategy are crucial for maintaining continuity of care and promoting optimal health outcomes. The Prostate Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool, prompting informed decision-making and emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, Cape Cod community.