03275, Suncook, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03275, Suncook, New Hampshire is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.27 percent of residents in 03275 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New Hampshire Hospital with a distance of 6.09 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03275 (Suncook, NH)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the challenges of breast cancer, extends far beyond the walls of a clinic. It encompasses the complexities of transportation, a critical factor that significantly impacts healthcare access. This analysis unveils the transportation landscape for residents of ZIP code 03275, Suncook, New Hampshire, assessing the ease and potential obstacles in accessing essential breast cancer care. Considering a move to Suncook? Understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial.

Suncook, nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The town's relative isolation, coupled with its reliance on personal vehicles, shapes the healthcare access experience. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, will evaluate drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture of the commute to care.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Suncook are Route 3 and Route 106. Route 3, also known as the Everett Turnpike, provides a direct, albeit sometimes congested, route south towards Concord and Manchester, major hubs for healthcare facilities. Route 106, a more rural thoroughfare, heads north and south, offering access to smaller towns and healthcare providers.

Driving times to key healthcare destinations are crucial. Concord Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 25-35 minute drive via Route 3, depending on traffic. Elliot Hospital in Manchester, offering comprehensive cancer care, is about a 40-55 minute drive, also primarily via Route 3. These drive times can fluctuate significantly during peak hours, potentially adding stress and impacting appointment adherence.

The condition of the roads, particularly during New Hampshire’s harsh winters, can further complicate commutes. Snow and ice can extend drive times and increase the risk of accidents, making reliable transportation even more vital.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Suncook are limited. The Concord Area Transit (CAT) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. The primary CAT route relevant to healthcare access is likely the one that connects Suncook to Concord. However, this route may not directly serve all medical facilities, requiring transfers or additional walking.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. CAT buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the overall accessibility of the system depends on the availability of accessible stops and the ease of navigating transfer points.

The limited scope of public transit necessitates careful planning. Individuals relying on public transportation may need to factor in longer travel times, potential delays, and the need for assistance with transfers. This can be particularly challenging for those undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Suncook area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-shares can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the New Hampshire region, including AMR (American Medical Response) and local providers.

The availability and cost of medical transport services vary. It's essential to research the specific services offered by each provider, including their coverage area, insurance acceptance, and the types of assistance they provide.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The transportation landscape in Suncook directly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those undergoing breast cancer treatment. The drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the variability of ride-share services can create significant barriers.

These barriers can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress. The ability to consistently and reliably access healthcare is crucial for positive outcomes.

**Moving to Suncook: Considerations**

For those considering a move to Suncook, understanding the transportation dynamics is essential. Individuals with a history of breast cancer, or those at high risk, should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities.

Consider the following:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Assess the distance to hospitals, cancer centers, and other relevant healthcare providers.
* **Transportation Options:** Evaluate the availability and reliability of personal vehicles, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport.
* **Accessibility:** Ensure that transportation options are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
* **Cost:** Factor in the cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-share fares, and medical transport services.
* **Support Systems:** Consider the availability of family, friends, or community resources that can provide transportation assistance.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation**

The Breast Cancer Score for Suncook highlights the need for improved transportation options to enhance healthcare access. This could include expanding public transit routes, increasing the availability of ride-share services, and promoting affordable medical transport options.

Investing in transportation infrastructure and services is an investment in the health and well-being of the community. By addressing the transportation challenges, we can ensure that residents of Suncook have equitable access to the critical care they need, particularly those navigating the complexities of breast cancer. The journey to healthcare should be as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing individuals to focus on their health and recovery.