02639, Dennis Port, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02639, Dennis Port, Massachusetts is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.51 percent of residents in 02639 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 6.51 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dennis Port, MA (ZIP Code 02639)

The sun-drenched shores of Dennis Port, Massachusetts, beckon with the promise of a tranquil life. Yet, for men considering a move to this charming coastal community, a critical factor demands careful consideration: access to quality healthcare, particularly concerning prostate cancer. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options and healthcare facilities within reach, culminating in a "Prostate Cancer Score" to help assess the ease of navigating healthcare in ZIP Code 02639.

Understanding the lay of the land is paramount. Dennis Port, nestled within the larger town of Dennis, offers a quintessential Cape Cod experience. However, its relative isolation necessitates a thoughtful approach to healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are located in Hyannis and Orleans, requiring travel by car, public transportation, or ride-sharing services. This analysis considers the practicalities of getting to and from these facilities, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for men seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

**The Road Ahead: Navigating by Car**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial. From Dennis Port, the journey to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, the region’s primary healthcare hub, typically involves navigating Route 28, a busy thoroughfare, and the Mid-Cape Highway (Route 6). Expect a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The Mid-Cape Highway provides a faster route, but it can become congested during peak tourist seasons, particularly in the summer months.

Another option is to travel east to Orleans, where you can find a satellite location of Cape Cod Healthcare. This drive, also primarily via Route 28, takes roughly 20-25 minutes, offering a potentially less congested alternative. However, the services offered at this location may be limited compared to Cape Cod Hospital.

The convenience of a car is undeniable, but it's important to consider potential limitations. Parking availability at medical facilities, especially during peak hours, can be a challenge. Furthermore, for individuals experiencing mobility issues or recovering from treatment, driving may not always be feasible.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation on Cape Cod, while present, is not as robust as in more urban areas. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are limited, particularly during the off-season. The CCRTA’s Route 6 operates along Route 28, offering a connection to Hyannis. However, the travel time can be significantly longer than driving, and the schedule may not align with medical appointments.

Accessibility is another consideration. The CCRTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that all buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit for those with mobility challenges warrant careful evaluation. For those considering moving to Dennis Port, the public transit option is available, but not necessarily the most convenient.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available on Cape Cod, offering an alternative to driving or public transportation. However, availability can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Fares can also be a significant expense, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are also available, specifically designed to cater to patients needing assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, such as Care Ride and FirstLight Home Care, often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility, and may be covered by insurance. They can be a valuable resource for individuals who cannot drive or who require extra support.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services**

The primary destination for prostate cancer care is Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis. This facility offers a comprehensive range of services, including urology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options, including robotic-assisted surgery.

The satellite locations of Cape Cod Healthcare, such as the one in Orleans, may offer some outpatient services, such as blood draws and follow-up appointments. However, they may not have the same level of specialized care as Cape Cod Hospital.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access**

To create a "Prostate Cancer Score" for Dennis Port, we consider the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to Cape Cod Hospital (20-30 minutes) receives a moderate score.
* **Public Transportation:** The limited frequency and longer travel times of the CCRTA (Route 6) result in a low score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Variable availability and potential cost implications warrant a moderate score.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of specialized medical transport services receives a positive score.
* **Facility Proximity:** The presence of Cape Cod Hospital, with its comprehensive services, receives a high score.

**The Score:**

Considering these factors, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Dennis Port, MA (ZIP Code 02639) is **Moderate**. While Cape Cod Hospital offers excellent care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the variability of ride-sharing services pose potential challenges. The availability of medical transport services and the proximity of the hospital help mitigate these challenges.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For men considering moving to Dennis Port, understanding these transportation and healthcare access factors is essential. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the practicalities of navigating healthcare, especially for conditions like prostate cancer, require careful consideration. Planning for transportation needs, exploring all available options, and familiarizing oneself with local healthcare resources are crucial steps in ensuring access to timely and effective care. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors, helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs in this beautiful coastal community. The ability to access healthcare is a key component when moving to Dennis Port.