02911, North Providence, Rhode Island Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02911, North Providence, Rhode Island is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.41 percent of residents in 02911 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Fatima Hospital with a distance of 1.34 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02911

The journey to effective prostate cancer care, particularly for residents of North Providence, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02911), involves more than just medical expertise. It demands a deep understanding of **transportation** options, the nuances of **healthcare access**, and the practicalities of daily life. For those considering **moving to North Providence**, or already residing there, this analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a composite measure of how readily available and convenient care is, factoring in travel times, public transit viability, and alternative transport solutions.

Our evaluation begins with the fundamental element: drive times. The primary arteries serving 02911 are the I-95, the I-295, and the Route 146. These thoroughfares determine the speed and efficiency of reaching critical healthcare facilities. For prostate cancer care, the closest major hospitals and specialized centers are in Providence, a short distance away, but the nature of traffic and the time of day can dramatically impact the experience.

Let's consider a hypothetical patient residing near the intersection of Smithfield Avenue and Mineral Spring Avenue, a central location in 02911. Reaching Rhode Island Hospital, a major cancer treatment center, typically involves a drive south on Smithfield Avenue, merging onto Route 146 South, and then navigating the city streets. During off-peak hours, this journey might take 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, or 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, this commute can easily stretch to 30-45 minutes, significantly impacting appointment punctuality and patient stress levels.

Alternatively, access to the Miriam Hospital, another prominent healthcare provider, is possible via the I-95 South, a more direct route. However, the I-95 corridor is notorious for its congestion, especially near the Providence city limits. The same hypothetical patient could expect a similar travel time, with rush hour exacerbating delays. This variability in drive times is a crucial factor in our Prostate Cancer Score.

The public transit landscape in 02911, managed by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), offers an alternative, albeit one with limitations. Several bus routes traverse the area, including the 19, 28, and 58, providing connectivity to Providence and its medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be sparse, and the overall travel time is significantly longer than driving.

For example, taking the bus from the aforementioned Smithfield Avenue location to Rhode Island Hospital could involve a transfer, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey. While RIPTA strives to provide accessible **transportation** through its ADA-compliant buses, the overall reliance on public transit can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing mobility challenges. The reliability of the bus schedule, especially during inclement weather, further complicates matters.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible, albeit potentially more expensive, option. These services provide on-demand **transportation**, allowing patients to schedule rides directly to their appointments. However, the availability of drivers in the 02911 area, especially during peak hours, can vary. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent visits, potentially impacting the financial burden of care.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent another category. Companies like First Transit and Medical Transport Services provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility limitations. These services often cater to those requiring wheelchair accessibility or other forms of assistance. While offering a valuable service, these options typically require advance booking and can be subject to insurance coverage, further influencing the affordability and accessibility of care.

The Prostate Cancer Score also considers the proximity of specialized cancer centers and urology practices within and around the 02911 area. The availability of experienced oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff is crucial for comprehensive care. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance significantly enhances the score.

Furthermore, the score takes into account the availability of support services, such as support groups, counseling, and patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. These resources play a vital role in promoting patient well-being and facilitating access to care.

Finally, the score considers the overall quality of life factors that can impact a patient's experience. The availability of convenient parking at medical facilities, the presence of accessible amenities, and the overall ease of navigating the healthcare environment all contribute to a positive patient experience.

In conclusion, the Prostate Cancer Score for residents of 02911 is a dynamic measure, reflecting the interplay of various factors. While the proximity to Providence offers access to major healthcare facilities, the reliance on roadways like Route 146, I-95, and I-295, coupled with the limitations of public transit, presents challenges. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provide alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

For individuals **moving to North Providence**, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial. Understanding the **transportation** landscape, the realities of **healthcare access**, and the availability of support services is paramount. By proactively addressing these considerations, residents of 02911 can significantly improve their Prostate Cancer Score, ensuring they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The score, therefore, is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to supporting the well-being of its residents, especially those facing the challenges of prostate cancer.