02780, Taunton, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02780, Taunton, Massachusetts is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.41 percent of residents in 02780 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Morton Hospital with a distance of 0.33 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Taunton (02780)

The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be daunting, and the accessibility of quality healthcare becomes paramount. For residents of Taunton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02780), understanding the landscape of **transportation** options is crucial for navigating the journey from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. This write-up analyzes the ease of **healthcare access** for prostate cancer patients in Taunton, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative modes of travel, aiming to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the practical realities of seeking care. This is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Taunton**, seeking to understand the local healthcare ecosystem.

Taunton's location, approximately 40 miles south of Boston and 20 miles east of Providence, Rhode Island, offers a mix of suburban and rural characteristics. This geographic positioning influences **transportation** infrastructure and, consequently, **healthcare access**. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 495 (I-495), Route 140, and Route 44. These roads serve as lifelines, connecting Taunton to specialized medical facilities and comprehensive cancer centers.

For those with a car, the drive times to key healthcare providers are generally manageable, though subject to traffic conditions. Morton Hospital in Taunton, a local provider, is the closest option for initial consultations and some diagnostic procedures. Reaching Morton Hospital from most parts of 02780 typically takes less than 15 minutes, a significant advantage for those needing frequent appointments or experiencing acute symptoms.

Specialized cancer care often necessitates travel to facilities with advanced equipment and experienced oncologists. The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, a renowned center for cancer treatment, is a common destination. The drive to Dana-Farber from Taunton, primarily via I-495 and I-90 (the Massachusetts Turnpike), can take between 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. Morning and evening rush hours can significantly extend this travel time. Similarly, the drive to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 30 to 45 minutes via Route 44 and I-95.

Public **transportation** options in Taunton are less robust than in major metropolitan areas. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service within Taunton and to surrounding communities. However, SRTA routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, and the frequency of service can be limited, especially on weekends and evenings. For individuals relying on public transit, planning appointments and allowing ample travel time is essential.

The SRTA’s Route 11, for example, connects Taunton to the Silver City Galleria and various commercial areas, potentially offering access to some medical offices. Route 12 provides service to the Taunton Green and other downtown locations. SRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility challenges. However, the relatively infrequent service and potential for transfers can pose challenges for patients undergoing cancer treatment, which often involves fatigue and physical limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution. Availability in Taunton is generally good, and these services can provide a convenient way to get to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially with frequent trips, and may present a financial burden for some patients. Patients should also be mindful of potential surge pricing during peak hours.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit. However, availability and coverage areas should be confirmed in advance, and costs can vary.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Taunton (02780) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity of Morton Hospital offers convenient access for initial consultations and some diagnostic procedures, specialized care often necessitates travel to facilities in Boston or Providence. This increases travel time and potential stress, especially for patients undergoing treatment. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, and public **transportation** options, while available, are limited. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternatives, but they come with associated costs.

The score would consider the following factors: Average drive time to key healthcare providers (Morton Hospital, Dana-Farber, Rhode Island Hospital), frequency and coverage of public transit routes, availability and cost of ride-sharing services, availability and cost of medical **transportation** services, and the presence of ADA features on public transit.

For a prostate cancer patient **moving to Taunton**, the score would likely be moderate. While the town offers a degree of local access, the need for specialized care necessitates travel, and the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** options adds complexity. Careful planning, consideration of financial resources, and awareness of available support services are essential for navigating the healthcare landscape effectively.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that patients can access the care they need with minimal stress and disruption to their lives. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is a crucial step in achieving this goal, and by actively exploring all available options, prostate cancer patients in Taunton can improve their **healthcare access** and focus on their well-being.