03446, Swanzey, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03446, Swanzey, New Hampshire is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.32 percent of residents in 03446 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 5.72 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swanzey, NH (ZIP Code 03446)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is more than just a medical procedure. It encompasses the intricate web of transportation, accessibility, and available resources. For residents of Swanzey, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03446), understanding this web is crucial. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a holistic assessment of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options to and from relevant medical facilities. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for anyone moving to Swanzey or seeking improved healthcare access.

The cornerstone of this analysis lies in the reality that a cancer diagnosis often requires frequent appointments: consultations, imaging, chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up visits. The ease or difficulty of reaching these appointments significantly impacts a patient's physical and emotional well-being. This score considers the practicalities of getting to and from medical facilities, recognizing that transportation challenges can exacerbate the stress of a serious illness.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Swanzey, a picturesque town in Cheshire County, benefits from its proximity to Keene, the regional hub for healthcare services. The primary route for most residents will be via **NH Route 10** and **NH Route 12**. Keene, approximately 5-10 minutes away, houses Cheshire Medical Center, a Dartmouth Health affiliate, which offers comprehensive cancer care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services.

For those residing in the more northern parts of Swanzey, accessing Keene via **NH Route 10** might involve navigating some winding roads, especially during winter months. Traffic is generally light, but potential delays can occur during peak commuting hours. The **NH Route 12** provides a more direct route, but it can also experience congestion during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Further afield, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, a major tertiary care center, is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive via **NH Route 12** to **Interstate 89**. This drive, while longer, offers access to specialized treatments and clinical trials. However, the time commitment and potential for weather-related delays must be considered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Swanzey are limited. The **Keene Dial-a-Ride** service, operated by the City of Keene, offers demand-response transportation within the city limits and surrounding areas. While this service can be utilized for medical appointments, it requires advance booking and is not designed for frequent, time-sensitive appointments. The service's accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, are crucial for patients with mobility limitations. However, the limited operating hours and potential for delays make it a less-than-ideal option for regular cancer treatment.

The **Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation (COAST)**, while not directly serving Swanzey, provides some connections to the region. This service does not directly impact healthcare access in Swanzey.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Keene area. However, their availability and reliability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides can also be a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option. Companies like **Care Ride** and **MedRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are typically pre-booked and offer door-to-door service, easing the burden on patients. However, their availability and cost vary, and it is crucial to check insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access and the "Breast Cancer Score":**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Swanzey, considering transportation, is moderate. The proximity to Cheshire Medical Center is a significant advantage, offering comprehensive cancer care within a reasonable drive. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Swanzey, the availability of a personal vehicle is crucial. The ability to drive oneself or have a reliable driver is essential for managing the frequent appointments associated with breast cancer treatment. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transport services before relocating is also advisable.

**Considerations for Moving to Swanzey:**

Before making a move to Swanzey, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and healthcare access. Researching the availability of medical transport services, assessing insurance coverage, and understanding the potential costs of ride-sharing are essential steps.

The quality of healthcare available in Keene is a major draw, but the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning to ensure seamless healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Swanzey, particularly for breast cancer patients, requires a multi-faceted approach. While the proximity to Cheshire Medical Center is a significant asset, understanding the transportation options and their limitations is paramount. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access, empowering residents to make informed decisions and ensuring that the journey to recovery is as smooth and stress-free as possible.