03779, Piermont, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03779, Piermont, New Hampshire is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.42 percent of residents in 03779 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cottage Hospital with a distance of 10.96 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Piermont, NH (ZIP Code 03779)

The quaint village of Piermont, New Hampshire, nestled along the Connecticut River, offers a serene quality of life. Yet, for residents facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the tranquility can be disrupted by the complexities of **healthcare access**. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, explores the **transportation** landscape within and around ZIP code 03779, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and ride-share availability. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those needing timely and consistent medical care, particularly considering the critical need for regular appointments and treatments. This information is also relevant for anyone **moving to Piermont**, as it will help them consider the healthcare landscape.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the understanding that early detection and consistent treatment are paramount in breast cancer care. This is especially true when considering the impact of **transportation** limitations on the ability to receive timely care. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times to major healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-share services. Each factor is evaluated to paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents of Piermont.

The primary healthcare hub for Piermont residents is Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH. The drive to DHMC, the nearest comprehensive cancer center, is a significant consideration. From the center of Piermont, the journey typically involves navigating Route 10 and Interstate 89 (I-89). Under normal traffic conditions, the drive is approximately 20 to 30 minutes. However, this time can be significantly impacted by weather, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice can make travel treacherous. The reliability of personal **transportation** becomes a crucial factor.

The secondary route to DHMC may involve Route 10 and Route 118, but this route is generally slower and more circuitous. The condition of these secondary roads is also a factor, as they are less frequently maintained than the major highways. The availability of reliable personal vehicles is essential for accessing DHMC. The need for regular appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up visits, underscores the importance of dependable **transportation**.

Public transit options in Piermont are limited. The Advance Transit (AT) provides some service within the Upper Valley region, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly for destinations outside of the immediate Lebanon/Hanover area. The AT route 90 provides service to Lebanon, but it may not be the most direct or convenient route to DHMC. The AT buses are equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage pose a challenge for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The reliance on personal vehicles or the limited public transit options highlights the potential need for alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Upper Valley region. However, their availability in Piermont may be less reliable than in more populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, particularly when frequent trips are required. The price of these services needs to be considered when assessing **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, provide another option. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking. The availability of these services also varies, and the reliability of their scheduling is crucial for patients undergoing treatment. The need for reliable medical **transportation** underscores the importance of planning and preparation.

The impact of **transportation** challenges extends beyond just the physical journey. It can affect a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The stress of coordinating **transportation**, dealing with traffic, and navigating the complexities of public transit can add to the burden of a cancer diagnosis. The financial strain of paying for **transportation** can also exacerbate existing financial worries. These factors highlight the importance of community support and resources.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Piermont, therefore, reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create obstacles for those needing timely and consistent medical care. The drive time to DHMC, while relatively short, is still a factor, especially during inclement weather.

For those **moving to Piermont**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is crucial. It's essential to assess the availability of reliable personal **transportation** and to explore all available options for medical appointments. This may involve utilizing family, friends, or community resources to ensure access to care. The importance of planning and preparation cannot be overstated.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also highlights the need for community support and resources. This includes advocating for improved public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and establishing partnerships with medical **transportation** providers. The goal is to create a supportive environment that ensures all residents of Piermont have equal access to the care they need.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Piermont, NH, underscores the importance of addressing the **transportation** challenges that impact **healthcare access**. While the drive time to DHMC is manageable, the limited public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services present significant hurdles. By understanding these challenges and working to create a more supportive environment, the community can improve the lives of those facing a breast cancer diagnosis and ensure that all residents have access to the care they deserve. This assessment is critical for anyone **moving to Piermont** to consider the healthcare landscape.