03445, Sullivan, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03445, Sullivan, New Hampshire is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.11 percent of residents in 03445 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 5.13 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03445**

The quaint New England town of Rindge, New Hampshire, nestled in ZIP Code 03445, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and a growing need for accessible healthcare, particularly for those facing the challenges of breast cancer. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can access vital medical services, assigning a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge the accessibility of care. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for individuals considering moving to Sullivan County.

The journey to healthcare in 03445 is often defined by the automobile. The primary arteries for travel include Route 202, a vital east-west thoroughfare, and Route 119, which offers a more scenic north-south passage. These roads, while offering scenic drives, can become congested during peak hours, potentially adding precious minutes to a medical appointment commute. The average drive time to the nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers is a crucial factor in the "Breast Cancer Score."

The closest major medical facilities are in Keene, New Hampshire, and Gardner, Massachusetts. The drive to Cheshire Medical Center in Keene, a comprehensive hospital with oncology services, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 202. For more specialized cancer care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to UMass Memorial Health – HealthAlliance Hospital in Gardner, Massachusetts. This journey, primarily along Route 202 and Route 140, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the hospital complex.

Public transportation options in 03445 are limited, a significant factor impacting the "Breast Cancer Score." The Monadnock Community Transit (MCT) provides some bus services, but these routes are infrequent and primarily serve local towns, with limited direct access to major medical centers. The MCT Route 10, for example, might offer a connection to Keene, but the schedule may not align with appointment times, and the overall travel time would be significantly longer than driving.

ADA accessibility on MCT buses is a positive aspect, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and route coverage present a significant challenge for those relying on public transit for their healthcare needs. This deficiency negatively impacts the "Breast Cancer Score," as it restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative mode of transportation. However, their availability in rural areas like 03445 can be unpredictable. While ride-sharing might be available, wait times can be lengthy, and the cost can be substantial, particularly for longer trips to medical facilities. This variable availability and potential expense further influence the "Breast Cancer Score," adding to the complexity of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients with medical needs play a crucial role in healthcare access. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services typically require advance booking and can provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices. The availability and cost of these services are factored into the "Breast Cancer Score," as they can be a lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 03445 is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking breast cancer care. The score takes into account the drive times to medical facilities, the limitations of public transportation, the uncertainties of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transportation services. The score is designed to assist individuals considering moving to Sullivan County, providing a clear understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 03445 would be moderately impacted. The drive times to Keene and Gardner are manageable for those with personal vehicles, but the lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for some residents. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline, but the reliance on these services adds to the overall complexity of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Sullivan County and concerned about breast cancer care, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. The accessibility of healthcare is paramount, and understanding the transportation landscape is a critical step in ensuring that residents can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not static. It is a dynamic measure that can be improved through investments in public transportation, increased ride-sharing availability, and enhanced medical transportation services. As the population of 03445 grows, addressing these transportation challenges will be crucial to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare, including vital breast cancer services. The journey to healthcare should not be a barrier; it should be a seamless and accessible pathway to health and well-being.