02745, New Bedford, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02745, New Bedford, Massachusetts is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.94 percent of residents in 02745 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 10.73 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02745, New Bedford

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis like prostate cancer, can be a complex one. This analysis focuses on transportation options and healthcare access within the 02745 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of New Bedford, Massachusetts. We aim to provide a comprehensive “Prostate Cancer Score,” evaluating the ease with which residents can access necessary medical services, considering the crucial role of transportation in their well-being. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to New Bedford, offering insights into the realities of healthcare access in this vibrant coastal city.

The 02745 ZIP code presents a unique transportation landscape. Its proximity to major roadways and its public transit infrastructure, coupled with ride-sharing services, creates a tapestry of options. However, these options vary significantly in terms of convenience, cost, and accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges, a common concern for those undergoing prostate cancer treatment.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, the primary arteries of 02745 are crucial. Interstate 195 (I-195) is the major east-west thoroughfare, connecting New Bedford to Providence, Rhode Island, and beyond. This highway is essential for accessing healthcare facilities located outside the immediate vicinity. Travel times, however, can fluctuate dramatically depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

Route 18, running north-south, provides another vital connection, facilitating access to various medical offices and hospitals within the city. Route 6, running parallel to I-195, offers an alternative route, although it often experiences heavier traffic. Local roads, such as County Street, Dartmouth Street, and Acushnet Avenue, are essential for navigating within the city. These roads can become congested, particularly during rush hour, potentially adding significant time to a healthcare commute.

The drive time to key healthcare providers is a critical factor. For example, the drive to St. Luke's Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the area, can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the origin point within 02745 and traffic volume. The drive to specialized clinics or hospitals outside of New Bedford, such as those in Fall River or Providence, can extend to 30-60 minutes or more, potentially impacting treatment schedules and patient well-being.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City by Bus**

The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides public transportation within New Bedford. The bus network offers a cost-effective alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. Several bus routes serve the 02745 area, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18.

The SRTA strives to provide accessible transportation. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Delays due to traffic congestion are also a concern, potentially disrupting appointments and treatment schedules.

Planning a healthcare commute via public transit requires careful consideration. Checking the SRTA schedule and route maps is crucial to ensure the availability of buses that connect the origin point to the healthcare facility. The travel time can be significantly longer than driving, often requiring transfers and waiting periods. This can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue or other side effects.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who need immediate access to healthcare facilities. These services provide on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to rely on fixed bus schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and other specialized providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility challenges or who require assistance, they can be more expensive than other transportation options.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services varies depending on the time of day and demand. Booking in advance is often recommended, especially for appointments scheduled during peak hours or on weekends. The reliability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when planning a healthcare commute.

**Healthcare Access: The Heart of the Matter**

The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of 02745 have timely and convenient access to prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. St. Luke's Hospital is the primary healthcare provider in the area, offering a range of medical services, including urology and oncology departments. Other healthcare facilities and clinics within the city and surrounding areas also provide specialized care.

The availability of specialists, such as urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, is crucial. The proximity of these specialists to the patient's residence, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the quality of care provided are all critical factors. The ability to access support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance, is also essential.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic Evaluation**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 02745 is not a single number but a holistic evaluation that considers multiple factors. It assesses the availability of transportation options, the drive times to healthcare facilities, the accessibility of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and the availability of healthcare services.

The score also considers the individual patient's needs and circumstances. Factors such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and the need for frequent appointments can significantly impact the patient's ability to access healthcare. The score should be used as a guide to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improvements in transportation and healthcare access within the community.

Moving to New Bedford and residing in 02745 requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access factors. While the city offers a range of options, each has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these complexities is essential for ensuring that residents can navigate their healthcare journey with ease and confidence. The goal is to create a community where access to healthcare is not a barrier but a pathway to well-being.