03590, North Stratford, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03590, North Stratford, New Hampshire is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.22 percent of residents in 03590 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital with a distance of 12.72 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 03590

Considering a move to North Stratford, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03590)? Beyond the allure of the White Mountains and the Connecticut River, a crucial factor in your decision should be healthcare access, particularly for women. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities equipped for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, giving you a clear picture of healthcare access in this rural setting.

The cornerstone of our analysis is transportation. In 03590, your personal vehicle is likely the primary mode of transport. The nearest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are situated in larger towns and cities, requiring travel along specific routes.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The closest hospitals with oncology departments and diagnostic imaging, including mammography, are in Littleton and Berlin, New Hampshire. Driving to Littleton, approximately 30 miles south, involves navigating Route 3, a major north-south artery. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Berlin, roughly 40 miles east, presents a slightly longer journey. You'll primarily utilize Route 16, a scenic but often winding road, to reach Androscoggin Valley Hospital. Expect a drive time of around an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes.

For specialized care, such as radiation therapy or surgical oncology, you might need to travel further to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, or to hospitals in Burlington, Vermont. These journeys, spanning approximately 100 and 120 miles respectively, require driving on I-91 and I-89, and can take between two to three hours, making them significant time commitments, particularly for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in 03590 is extremely limited. The Coös County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides some services, but their routes and schedules are designed to serve the broader county, not specifically for healthcare access. There is no direct public transit route to either Littleton or Berlin.

CCTA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning you must schedule a ride in advance. This is not ideal for urgent medical needs or for the often unpredictable schedules associated with cancer treatment. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, but the limited service area and scheduling requirements make public transit a less-than-ideal solution for most residents needing frequent healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is sparse, and availability may be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular appointments is not advisable.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be costly, and availability might be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Given the transportation landscape, 03590 receives a moderate "Breast Cancer Score." While the drive to Littleton and Berlin is manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The long distances to specialized care centers in Lebanon or Burlington further complicate access, potentially impacting the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Personal Vehicle:** Owning and maintaining a reliable vehicle is essential.
* **Proximity to Family/Support:** Having family or friends who can assist with transportation is invaluable.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm your insurance covers transportation costs for medical appointments.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Plan appointments well in advance, considering travel time and potential delays.
* **Local Resources:** Research local support groups and resources for cancer patients in the area.

**Moving to North Stratford: A Balanced Perspective:**

Relocating to 03590 offers a unique lifestyle, with the beauty of nature and a strong sense of community. However, when considering healthcare access, especially for breast cancer care, a realistic assessment of transportation options is crucial. While the drive to nearby hospitals is feasible, the limited public transit and potential reliance on ride-sharing necessitate careful planning and consideration.

The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning. Before moving, research local healthcare providers, understand insurance coverage for transportation, and explore the availability of medical transport services. By addressing these factors, you can make an informed decision and ensure access to the necessary care should the need arise.