02743, Acushnet, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02743, Acushnet, Massachusetts is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.43 percent of residents in 02743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 12.55 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Acushnet, MA (ZIP Code 02743)

The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be daunting. Beyond the medical complexities, practical considerations like accessing timely and quality healthcare become paramount. This write-up explores the landscape of **transportation** options available to residents of Acushnet, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02743), aiming to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" – an assessment of **healthcare access** based on the ease of reaching essential medical services. This is especially relevant for those **moving to Acushnet**, as understanding these logistics is crucial for informed decision-making.

Acushnet, a charming town nestled in Bristol County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This duality influences the available **transportation** choices, impacting the ease with which residents can access specialized medical care, including urology and oncology services critical for prostate cancer management. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for patients.

One of the primary considerations is the accessibility of hospitals and specialized clinics. The closest major hospital is St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care. Driving to St. Luke's from Acushnet is generally straightforward. The most direct route involves taking **Main Street** (Route 6) eastward, which then merges onto **County Street** in New Bedford. This drive typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another important facility is the Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center in Boston, offering cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. However, this journey is considerably longer. The most common route involves taking **Route 140** north to **I-195** east, then connecting to **I-95** north and finally **I-93** north into Boston. This drive can take upwards of 1 hour and 30 minutes, potentially longer during peak traffic hours. The journey necessitates careful planning and consideration for appointments.

Public **transportation** options within Acushnet and the surrounding areas are limited. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules may not directly serve all medical facilities. The primary route serving the area is Route 1, which runs along **Main Street** (Route 6). However, the frequency of buses may be infrequent, and the route may not directly reach St. Luke's Hospital. Further investigation into SRTA's accessibility features, such as ADA-compliant buses, is crucial for patients with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area and can be a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive themselves. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Patients should consider the cost and reliability of these services when planning medical appointments. Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, may also be an option for those who require assistance with mobility or who cannot use public **transportation**. These services often provide door-to-door service and can be tailored to the specific needs of the patient.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" also considers the availability of local urologists and oncologists. Acushnet itself does not have any major medical centers. Residents typically seek care in nearby New Bedford or Fall River. This necessitates travel, adding to the complexity of **healthcare access**. The availability of specialized medical professionals in the surrounding areas directly impacts the ease of receiving timely diagnoses and treatments.

For patients **moving to Acushnet**, understanding the limitations of public **transportation** is crucial. Relying solely on buses could be challenging, particularly for frequent appointments. The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services becomes more pronounced. The distance to specialized medical facilities like St. Luke's Hospital, while manageable, still requires planning.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Acushnet, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to St. Luke's Hospital offers reasonable **healthcare access**, the limitations of public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services introduce challenges. The journey to Boston for specialized care is significantly longer, demanding careful consideration of **transportation** logistics.

The score also considers the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, which can impact drive times and add stress to patients. The availability of ride-sharing services provides a valuable alternative, but patients should be prepared for potential fluctuations in availability and cost. The absence of a local medical center adds to the complexity of **healthcare access**.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Acushnet (ZIP Code 02743) highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options. While the proximity to St. Luke's Hospital provides a degree of convenience, the limitations of public **transportation** and the longer journey to Boston for specialized care necessitate a proactive approach. For those **moving to Acushnet**, understanding these factors is essential for ensuring timely and effective **healthcare access**. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** services can mitigate some of the challenges, but patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances when navigating the **healthcare** landscape.