The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03293, Woodstock, New Hampshire is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
11.11 percent of residents in 03293 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Speare Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.77 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 03293, Woodstock, New Hampshire
Breast Cancer Score | 73 |
---|---|
People Score | 76 |
Provider Score | 40 |
Hospital Score | 68 |
Travel Score | 41 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 03293 | Woodstock | New Hampshire |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 1.54 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 15.54 |
2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 44.29 |
3 or More Cars | 100.00 | 100.00 | 38.64 |
Vehicular Access in 03293, Woodstock, New Hampshire
**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03293**
The quaint New England town of Woodstock, New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, offers a picturesque setting. But for those considering a move to this idyllic locale, especially individuals with healthcare needs, understanding the realities of transportation and healthcare access is paramount. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of commuting to essential medical services from ZIP code 03293, with a specific focus on breast cancer care. It examines drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making.
The assessment considers that early detection and timely treatment are critical in the fight against breast cancer. Therefore, the ability to access specialized medical facilities, including those offering mammograms, biopsies, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions, is a key factor. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to quantify the ease of access to these vital services, factoring in the challenges inherent in a rural environment.
**Drive Times and Roadways**
The primary route for accessing healthcare from Woodstock is typically via Interstate 93 (I-93), a major north-south artery. Driving south on I-93 provides access to larger medical centers located in the Concord and Manchester areas. The drive to Concord, approximately 70 miles, can take between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey involves navigating the winding mountain roads of the White Mountains before merging onto the interstate.
The journey to Manchester, roughly 100 miles, extends the drive time to between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments requiring precise arrival times. The scenic Route 3, also known as the Daniel Webster Highway, offers an alternative route, particularly for destinations closer to the highway’s path, but it is often slower than I-93 due to traffic lights and lower speed limits.
Local roads, such as Route 175, provide access to nearby towns and services. However, these roads are often narrow, winding, and subject to seasonal closures due to snow and ice. Driving conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and necessitate the use of four-wheel drive vehicles.
Public transportation options in the Woodstock area are limited. The availability of public transit is a crucial aspect of healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The lack of robust public transit systems can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot afford private transportation.
The local bus system, the Plymouth Area Transportation (PAT), offers limited service within the region. PAT routes might connect Woodstock to nearby towns like Plymouth, where some basic medical services are available. However, these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve the major medical centers in Concord or Manchester.
The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. PAT, like most public transit systems, is required to provide accessible services. However, the frequency and convenience of these accessible routes may not always meet the needs of patients requiring regular medical appointments.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have limited presence in rural areas. While these services may be available in Woodstock, their reliability and cost can vary significantly. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make ride-sharing an expensive option, particularly for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services, often provided by private companies, can transport individuals to and from medical appointments, including those related to breast cancer care. Medical transport services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients.
The cost of medical transport services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary. It is crucial to investigate the availability and cost of these services, as well as the extent of insurance coverage, before relying on them for healthcare transportation.
**Healthcare Access Considerations**
The "Breast Cancer Score" assessment highlights the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting. While Woodstock offers a desirable lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limitations of transportation options pose significant hurdles for individuals with breast cancer or those at risk.
The availability of local primary care physicians and clinics is a positive factor. These providers can offer initial screenings, referrals, and some basic medical services. However, specialized breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical interventions, and chemotherapy, typically requires travel to larger medical centers.
The importance of early detection cannot be overstated. Regular mammograms and other screenings are essential for identifying breast cancer at its earliest stages. The accessibility of these screenings is a critical factor in healthcare access.
**Moving to Woodstock: A Balanced Perspective**
For individuals considering a move to Woodstock, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. While the town offers a charming environment and a sense of community, the challenges of transportation and the distance to specialized medical facilities must be carefully considered.
Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing necessary medical care. They should research the availability of transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The cost and reliability of these services should be a primary concern.
The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access in Woodstock. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, researching transportation options, and understanding insurance coverage.
The beauty of Woodstock and the surrounding White Mountains is undeniable. However, prospective residents must balance the allure of this scenic location with the practical realities of healthcare access. This assessment serves as a guide, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their potential move to this beautiful corner of New Hampshire.
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