02670, West Dennis, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02670, West Dennis, Massachusetts is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.32 percent of residents in 02670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Cod Healthcare with a distance of 5.97 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Dennis (02670)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a coastal haven like West Dennis, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02670), often involves a thorough assessment of lifestyle factors. For men, this includes a critical consideration: healthcare access, specifically concerning prostate cancer screening and treatment. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for residents and prospective residents of 02670, evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities specializing in urology and oncology. This score will consider drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport services. It is a snapshot of the healthcare landscape and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 02670 is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment. It considers the ease and efficiency of accessing necessary medical care, factoring in the unique transportation challenges of Cape Cod. The score will consider how readily individuals can reach specialists, diagnostic facilities, and treatment centers, crucial elements in early detection and effective management of prostate cancer. The goal is to offer a realistic understanding of healthcare access, a vital consideration for anyone contemplating moving to West Dennis.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many residents of 02670, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The ability to quickly reach medical facilities is paramount, especially during a medical emergency or for regular appointments. The primary arteries for navigating the Cape are Route 28 and Route 6.

From West Dennis, a trip to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, a major healthcare hub, typically involves a drive along Route 28. During off-peak hours, this journey can be completed in approximately 20-30 minutes. However, traffic congestion during peak tourist season, especially in the summer months, can significantly extend this drive time, potentially doubling it. The route is relatively straightforward, but the volume of traffic necessitates careful planning.

For those seeking specialized urological care or oncology services, the drive to Falmouth Hospital, also accessible via Route 28, presents similar challenges. The distance is slightly longer, and the drive time can range from 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Route 6, the Mid-Cape Highway, offers an alternative route for some destinations, but its usefulness depends on the location of the appointment and the prevailing traffic patterns.

The drive to Boston, where many specialized cancer centers are located, is a significant undertaking. The journey involves navigating Route 6 to the Sagamore Bridge and then onto I-495 and the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90). This trip can easily consume two to three hours, making it a less practical option for routine appointments or frequent follow-ups. This distance is a significant factor in the overall "Prostate Cancer Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 02670 are limited, impacting the "Prostate Cancer Score." The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides bus services, but routes are often infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The CCRTA's "Flex" service, a demand-response transportation option, may be available, but it requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a key consideration. The CCRTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, but the limited route coverage and potential for lengthy travel times can pose challenges for those with mobility issues. The lack of readily available and efficient public transit significantly impacts the score, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 02670, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability and cost of these services are critical elements in the "Prostate Cancer Score."

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 02670: A Qualitative Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for 02670 reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to local hospitals and medical facilities are generally manageable, seasonal traffic congestion and the distance to specialized cancer centers in Boston present significant challenges. The limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services further impact the score.

The score is influenced by the individual's mobility, financial resources, and the specific healthcare needs. For individuals who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle, healthcare access is relatively good, with the caveat of potential traffic delays. For those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations, healthcare access is more challenging, requiring careful planning and reliance on potentially costly alternative transportation options.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Before moving to West Dennis, prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of urology and oncology services in the area. It is crucial to identify preferred providers and assess the ease of access to their offices. Consider the potential impact of seasonal traffic congestion on appointment schedules.

Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments, should carefully evaluate the transportation options and associated costs. Exploring the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers is essential.

For those considering relocating, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors, helping individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs in the context of moving to West Dennis. The ability to access timely and efficient healthcare is a crucial aspect of quality of life, and a thoughtful assessment of these factors is essential for a successful transition.