03221, Bradford, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03221, Bradford, New Hampshire is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.64 percent of residents in 03221 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 13.30 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bradford, NH (ZIP Code 03221)

The crisp air of Bradford, New Hampshire, a town nestled in the heart of the Granite State, offers a certain tranquility. But for residents, particularly those facing the complexities of breast cancer, the serenity can be challenged by the realities of healthcare access. This write-up aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 03221, examining the crucial element of transportation, and its impact on accessing vital medical care. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a picture of the healthcare landscape for those living and potentially **moving to Bradford**.

The ability to reach timely appointments, diagnostic screenings, and treatment centers is paramount in the fight against breast cancer. Delays in care can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, understanding the transportation infrastructure is essential for assessing the accessibility of healthcare services within this community.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

For many Bradford residents, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. The journey to specialized breast cancer care often involves navigating the scenic, but sometimes challenging, roads of New Hampshire. The primary destination for advanced cancer treatment is typically the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH. This is a regional hub offering comprehensive cancer services.

From Bradford, the most direct route to DHMC is via Route 114 East to Interstate 89 North. The drive, under ideal conditions, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. However, this time can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice can cause delays. The stretch of I-89, while generally well-maintained, can become congested during peak travel times, extending the commute.

Alternative routes exist, but they often add considerable time to the journey. Route 103 East, a more winding and less direct road, offers a scenic alternative but can easily add 15-20 minutes to the drive time. Similarly, taking Route 4 West to I-89 North is a possible option, but it adds mileage and potential delays.

Other important destinations for breast cancer care include smaller clinics and hospitals in nearby towns like Concord and Claremont. Concord Hospital, located approximately 40 miles east of Bradford, can be reached via Route 114 East and I-89 South, a journey of about an hour under normal conditions. The drive to Valley Regional Hospital in Claremont, approximately 30 miles west of Bradford, involves Route 114 West and Route 103 West, a drive time of around 45 minutes.

These drive times highlight the dependence on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care. The reliability of a personal vehicle, its maintenance, and the driver’s ability to navigate varying road conditions become critical factors in healthcare access. For individuals without access to a car, the challenges are amplified.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Bradford and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of buses and other public transit services is a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." The lack of robust public transit can be a major barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The closest public transit options are the Concord Area Transit (CAT) and the Advance Transit. The CAT provides service to Concord, but it does not directly serve Bradford. Residents would need to find their own way to Concord to access CAT services. Advance Transit, which operates in the Upper Valley region, including Lebanon and Hanover, does not extend its services to Bradford.

The absence of a dedicated public transit route to DHMC or other cancer care facilities presents a significant challenge. This lack of public transit can be particularly difficult for elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and those facing financial constraints.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible public transit is a crucial consideration. While some public transit systems may offer ADA-compliant vehicles, the limited service area in this region restricts the options for individuals with mobility challenges.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a potential solution, but their availability in rural areas like Bradford can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" must take into account the reliability and affordability of these services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies specialize in this type of transportation, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive.

Some local organizations may offer volunteer driver programs or transportation assistance for medical appointments. Researching and utilizing these resources can be critical for individuals in need of transportation. However, the availability of these programs can vary, and they may not always be able to meet the demand.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in 03221**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Bradford, NH (03221) reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to major cancer care facilities are manageable for those with personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create significant challenges.

The score is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays. The absence of reliable public transit options further lowers the score. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides some mitigation, but these services may not be readily available or affordable for all residents.

For individuals considering **moving to Bradford**, the "Breast Cancer Score" should be a key factor in their decision-making process. Understanding the transportation challenges and exploring available resources is crucial for ensuring access to timely and quality healthcare.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the "Breast Cancer Score" for Bradford, several steps could be taken. Increasing the availability of public transportation, particularly routes connecting Bradford to DHMC and other healthcare facilities, would be a significant improvement. Expanding the reach of ride-sharing services and making them more affordable would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting and supporting volunteer driver programs and medical transportation services can help bridge the transportation gap. Educating residents about available resources and assisting them in accessing these services is also critical.

Finally, advocating for policies that support healthcare access in rural communities is essential. This includes initiatives to improve infrastructure, expand public transit, and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need. The quality of **healthcare access** in Bradford is directly impacted by the availability of **transportation**, and addressing these challenges is essential for improving the lives of those facing breast cancer.