The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03752, Goshen, New Hampshire is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
80.06 percent of residents in 03752 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New London Hospital with a distance of 10.96 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 03752, Goshen, New Hampshire
Breast Cancer Score | 56 |
---|---|
People Score | 48 |
Provider Score | 46 |
Hospital Score | 64 |
Travel Score | 42 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 03752 | Goshen | New Hampshire |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 1.54 |
1 Car | 10.18 | 10.18 | 15.54 |
2 Cars | 43.60 | 43.60 | 44.29 |
3 or More Cars | 46.21 | 46.21 | 38.64 |
Vehicular Access in 03752, Goshen, New Hampshire
**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Goshen, NH (ZIP Code 03752)**
The tranquility of Goshen, New Hampshire, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Upper Valley, offers a serene escape. However, the bucolic charm presents a unique challenge: navigating the transportation landscape to access vital healthcare services, particularly for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment options from Goshen, considering commute times, transportation alternatives, and the overall ease of accessing care.
The score will reflect the reality of transportation limitations. The evaluation takes into account the time and effort required to reach medical facilities equipped to handle breast cancer care. We will look at drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This is not just about distance; it's about the practicalities of getting to appointments, especially for those undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or mobility issues.
The Breast Cancer Score for Goshen, NH (03752) is not a single number but a nuanced assessment. It reflects the diverse factors influencing a patient’s ability to receive timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. This is especially critical for those considering moving to Goshen or already residing in the area, and it will affect their healthcare access.
**Driving to Care: The Road Ahead**
The primary mode of transportation in Goshen is the personal vehicle. The journey to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities necessitates driving on a network of roads. The drive times will vary based on the destination and the time of day.
The closest hospital with comprehensive breast cancer services is Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH, approximately 25 miles from Goshen. The drive typically involves taking NH-10 South and then I-89 South. During off-peak hours, the drive can be completed in approximately 40-50 minutes. However, during rush hour, especially on weekdays, the commute can extend to an hour or more. This extra time can be a significant burden for patients needing regular appointments.
Another option is the Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital in Lebanon, NH, which offers some breast cancer services. The route is similar, utilizing NH-10 South and I-89 South. The drive is slightly shorter, around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. However, this facility might not offer the full range of services available at DHMC, such as specialized surgical oncology or advanced radiation therapy.
The roads in the area, including NH-10 and I-89, are generally well-maintained. However, winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, potentially delaying or canceling appointments. This is a crucial factor in assessing the overall accessibility of healthcare.
**Public Transit: Limited Options**
Public transportation options in the Upper Valley are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. There is no direct public transit route from Goshen to Lebanon or DHMC.
Advance Transit, a non-profit public transit provider, operates in the Upper Valley. However, their routes primarily serve the more populated areas and do not extend directly to Goshen. A potential, but cumbersome, option would involve a combination of a ride to a nearby Advance Transit stop, such as in Newport, NH, followed by a transfer to a route that travels toward Lebanon. This journey would involve multiple transfers and could easily take several hours, making it impractical for routine medical appointments.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on Advance Transit buses include ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and accessible seating. However, the extended travel times and multiple transfers would still pose a challenge for many patients, especially those undergoing treatment.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Upper Valley, including Goshen. However, their availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. A ride to DHMC could cost upwards of $50-$75 each way, adding a substantial financial burden to the patient's care.
Medical transportation services are available in the area. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like MedRide and FirstLight Home Care may offer transportation services. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and getting in and out of vehicles. While these services offer a more convenient option, they can be expensive and may require advance booking, especially during peak demand.
**Assessing the Score: A Multifaceted Approach**
The Breast Cancer Score for Goshen, NH (03752) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive due to illness or treatment side effects. The limited public transit options exacerbate this challenge. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, but their availability, cost, and advance booking requirements present additional hurdles.
The score will consider the following:
* **Drive Time:** The average commute time to DHMC and Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital, considering peak and off-peak traffic.
* **Public Transit Feasibility:** The practicality of using public transit, considering travel time, frequency, and accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and ease of booking medical transport services.
* **Weather Impact:** The impact of winter weather on travel times and safety.
* **Financial Burden:** The overall cost of transportation, including fuel, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport costs.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**
For individuals considering moving to Goshen or currently residing in the area, understanding the transportation challenges is crucial. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a tool to assess the accessibility of breast cancer care, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration. While the beauty of Goshen is undeniable, the realities of healthcare access must be acknowledged.
Patients may need to rely on family, friends, or community resources for transportation. Exploring financial assistance programs to help cover transportation costs is also recommended. The Upper Valley has a strong sense of community, and local organizations may offer support to patients navigating these challenges.
The Breast Cancer Score aims to raise awareness of the transportation barriers and encourage the development of solutions. Increased access to public transit, subsidized ride-sharing programs, or expanded medical transport services could significantly improve healthcare access for Goshen residents facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The goal is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and comprehensive care, regardless of their location or transportation limitations. This is a vital aspect of healthcare access.
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