02878, Tiverton, Rhode Island Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02878, Tiverton, Rhode Island is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.51 percent of residents in 02878 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newport Hospital with a distance of 11.84 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tiverton, RI (ZIP Code 02878)

The picturesque coastal town of Tiverton, Rhode Island, offers residents a serene lifestyle. However, when considering a move, especially for those with healthcare needs, understanding the practicalities of accessing specialized medical care becomes paramount. This write-up focuses on prostate cancer care access for residents of ZIP Code 02878, evaluating transportation options and their impact on the “Prostate Cancer Score.” This score, though subjective, weighs factors like drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services to provide a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility.

The core of this analysis centers on prostate cancer care, a field often requiring specialized expertise and frequent appointments. This necessitates a close examination of transportation logistics. The "Prostate Cancer Score" aims to reflect the ease with which residents can reach urologists, oncologists, radiation therapy centers, and related support services.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

For residents of Tiverton, the most common mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The major artery connecting Tiverton to the broader healthcare landscape is Route 24. This highway provides relatively quick access to Fall River, Massachusetts, and the surrounding areas. Driving to Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, a potential site for diagnostic imaging and some specialist consultations, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

Heading north on Route 24 towards Providence, the state capital, opens up access to a wider array of healthcare facilities. Reaching Rhode Island Hospital, a major tertiary care center with comprehensive cancer services, including urology and radiation oncology, usually takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey involves navigating the merge onto Route 195, a busy highway prone to congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Eastbound travel on Route 177, a more local road, provides access to healthcare facilities in Little Compton, though the scope of specialized cancer care in this area is limited. Route 138, running east-west, can be used to connect to Route 24 or to head west to Newport.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Tiverton, and indeed throughout much of Rhode Island, are limited. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for regular medical appointments. Route 60, the main bus route serving Tiverton, offers connections to Fall River and Newport, but it typically operates on a schedule that may not align well with the needs of patients requiring timely medical care.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on RIPTA buses is generally good, with ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long travel times, especially when transfers are required, significantly diminish the practicality of public transit for prostate cancer patients. The lack of direct routes to major healthcare centers in Providence remains a significant drawback.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tiverton and offer a more flexible transportation option than public transit. However, the cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues. While these services can be invaluable for those with limited mobility or who cannot drive, they can also be expensive and require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for the "Prostate Cancer Score"**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Tiverton (02878) reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While the proximity to Fall River offers relatively quick access to some healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on major highways introduce challenges. The limited public transit options and the cost of ride-sharing services further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering a move to Tiverton, especially those with a history of prostate cancer or at increased risk, careful consideration of these transportation factors is crucial. The availability of a reliable vehicle, the ability to navigate traffic, and the financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services significantly impact the ease of accessing specialized care.

The distance to major cancer centers in Providence, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, could negatively impact the "Prostate Cancer Score." The lack of direct public transit routes to these centers further exacerbates the issue.

**Moving to Tiverton: A Balanced Perspective**

Tiverton's appeal as a residential community is undeniable. Its scenic beauty, close-knit community, and slower pace of life are strong draws. However, for individuals with existing or potential healthcare needs, a realistic assessment of healthcare access is vital.

Before making a move, prospective residents should research the specific healthcare providers in the area, including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists. They should also evaluate their transportation needs and budget accordingly. Exploring the availability of medical transportation services and understanding the limitations of public transit are essential steps.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Tiverton, therefore, is not a simple metric. It demands a nuanced understanding of the interplay between geography, transportation, and individual needs. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, potential residents must carefully weigh the accessibility of specialized healthcare services when making their decision. The journey to healthcare, especially for prostate cancer, requires careful planning and a realistic assessment of the available transportation options.