02702, Assonet, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.28 percent of residents in 02702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 6.66 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Assonet (02702)

The prospect of a prostate cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding not just medical expertise but also accessible and reliable transportation to navigate the complexities of care. This write-up, specifically tailored for residents of Assonet, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02702), examines the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, particularly concerning prostate cancer treatment and follow-up. We’ll dissect drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive 'Prostate Cancer Score' assessment for those facing this challenging journey.

Assonet, a charming village within the town of Freetown, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its relative distance from major medical centers necessitates careful planning for those requiring specialized care. The 'Prostate Cancer Score' considers the ease with which individuals can reach essential healthcare providers, factoring in travel time, convenience, and the availability of alternative transportation options. This information is vital for residents already grappling with a diagnosis or those considering moving to Assonet and seeking to understand their healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The primary artery connecting Assonet to the broader healthcare network is Route 140, a vital thoroughfare for residents. Heading north, Route 140 provides access to Taunton, where Morton Hospital serves as a primary care facility. The drive to Morton Hospital typically takes around 15-20 minutes, a manageable commute for routine appointments and initial consultations. However, for specialized prostate cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy or surgery, patients often need to travel further.

Southbound on Route 140 leads to Fall River, home to Saint Anne's Hospital. The journey is slightly longer, usually taking 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including urology services, and may be a viable option for some patients. The drive, though longer, remains feasible for most, especially those with personal vehicles.

For access to more specialized care, particularly at larger hospitals, residents often need to venture onto the highway system. Interstate 195, easily accessible from Route 140, offers a direct route to Providence, Rhode Island, and its renowned medical institutions like Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital. The drive to Providence typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is crucial for those seeking advanced treatment options or specialized expertise.

Route 24, accessible via Route 140, provides another crucial link to the Boston area. This route offers access to Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, all internationally recognized for their expertise in prostate cancer treatment. The drive to Boston, however, can be significantly longer, often exceeding an hour, especially during peak commuting hours. This extended travel time necessitates careful consideration, particularly for frequent appointments or post-treatment follow-ups.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Challenges**

Public transportation options in Assonet are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those relying on alternatives to personal vehicles. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service to the region, but routes within Assonet are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities.

The primary SRTA route relevant to Assonet residents is likely Route 11, which connects Fall River and New Bedford. While this route may offer a connection to hospitals in Fall River, the frequency of service and the need for transfers can significantly increase travel time and inconvenience. Additionally, the accessibility of SRTA buses for individuals with mobility limitations is a critical factor. While SRTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of boarding and disembarking must be considered.

For those needing to reach Providence or Boston via public transit, a combination of bus and commuter rail may be required. This often involves taking an SRTA bus to a connecting point, such as the Fall River Depot, and then transferring to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail. This multi-leg journey can be time-consuming and stressful, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing post-treatment fatigue.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Assonet, offering a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to operate a vehicle. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Patients should plan ahead and book rides in advance, especially for critical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical facilities.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for patients with mobility limitations or other needs. Companies like MedRide and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering door-to-door service and trained drivers. These services can be invaluable for patients unable to drive or rely on public transit. However, it’s essential to confirm insurance coverage and book these services well in advance, as demand can be high.

**The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Assonet (02702)**

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Assonet reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Taunton and Fall River offers reasonable access to primary care and some specialized services, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The limited public transportation options and the potential for lengthy commutes to Boston for advanced treatment pose challenges.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate, with manageable commutes to local hospitals but longer travel times to specialized centers.
* **Public Transit:** Limited, with infrequent bus service and the need for multiple transfers to reach major medical centers.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Available but potentially unreliable and costly.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, offering a valuable service for those with mobility limitations.

For residents of Assonet facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, careful planning and proactive arrangements are crucial. This includes establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician, exploring all treatment options, and arranging reliable transportation for all appointments. Those considering moving to Assonet should carefully weigh the transportation challenges against the benefits of the community and lifestyle. The 'Prostate Cancer Score' serves as a starting point for this critical evaluation, ensuring that healthcare access remains a top priority.