03842, Hampton, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03842, Hampton, New Hampshire is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.42 percent of residents in 03842 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 6.27 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hampton, NH (ZIP Code 03842)

Moving to Hampton, New Hampshire, a coastal town celebrated for its beaches and laid-back lifestyle, presents a unique set of considerations when it comes to healthcare access. This assessment focuses on transportation options available for individuals requiring breast cancer care, specifically within the 03842 ZIP code. Understanding the commute to healthcare is crucial, especially for those undergoing treatment, as frequent appointments and potential side effects can significantly impact mobility. We'll delve into the practicalities of reaching essential medical facilities, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options, culminating in a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall ease of healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Hampton is the proximity to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider offering comprehensive cancer services. Reaching Portsmouth, approximately 15 miles north, is a critical journey for many residents. Driving, the most common mode of transportation, typically involves navigating Route 1, a bustling commercial artery, or utilizing the more scenic, but often slower, Route 1A, which hugs the coastline. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and afternoons, traffic congestion on Route 1 can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting appointment schedules and patient comfort. A typical drive to Portsmouth Regional Hospital via Route 1 averages 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

Alternative routes, such as using Interstate 95, offer a potentially faster, albeit more distant, option. Accessing I-95 requires navigating local roads like Lafayette Road (Route 1) or Ocean Boulevard (Route 1A) to reach the on-ramps. While the interstate provides a more direct route, the overall travel time can still vary, ranging from 20-35 minutes, factoring in the initial local road commute and potential interstate traffic. Choosing the optimal route requires real-time traffic assessment, a crucial aspect of planning healthcare transportation.

Public transportation options in Hampton are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals relying on alternatives to personal vehicles. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) operates bus routes serving the Seacoast region, including Hampton. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily designed for general commuting, not specifically tailored for healthcare appointments. The primary route serving Hampton, Route 1, offers limited stops near medical facilities.

Furthermore, the COAST system's accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and audio-visual announcements, are essential for ADA compliance. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers to reach Portsmouth Regional Hospital, the closest comprehensive cancer center, make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many breast cancer patients. The journey could easily consume 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an exhausting experience.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. These services are readily available in Hampton, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The convenience of door-to-door service is a significant advantage, particularly for patients experiencing treatment side effects. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate rapidly, especially with frequent appointments. Furthermore, availability can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially causing delays or requiring advanced planning.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, provide another option. These services often offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. They also provide trained personnel to assist patients with boarding and disembarking. While these services offer comfort and convenience, they typically come with a higher price tag. Availability may also require advance booking, necessitating careful planning.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Hampton, NH (03842) reflects a mixed picture. The primary strength lies in the proximity to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a comprehensive cancer center. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present significant challenges. The commute times, ranging from 20-40 minutes depending on traffic, can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative, but the cost can be prohibitive. Medical transportation services offer specialized support, but they are also expensive and require advance booking. Public transportation's infrequency and the potential for lengthy travel times further diminish the overall score.

**Scoring Breakdown:**

* **Proximity to Comprehensive Cancer Care:** High (Portsmouth Regional Hospital)
* **Drive Time (without traffic):** Moderate (20-30 minutes)
* **Drive Time (with traffic):** Moderate to High (25-40 minutes)
* **Public Transportation Availability:** Low (Infrequent, limited routes)
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Moderate (Convenient, but potentially costly)
* **Medical Transportation Availability:** Moderate (Specialized, but expensive)
* **Overall Score:** Moderate

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Advocate for increased COAST service:** Increased frequency and expanded routes, particularly those connecting Hampton to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, would significantly improve healthcare access for all residents.
* **Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services:** Negotiating discounted rates for cancer patients could make ride-sharing a more affordable option.
* **Promote awareness of medical transportation services:** Ensuring residents are aware of available medical transportation options and the financial assistance programs that may be available.
* **Encourage telehealth initiatives:** Expanding access to telehealth services could reduce the need for frequent in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up care.

Moving to Hampton offers a desirable lifestyle, but prospective residents, particularly those with existing or potential healthcare needs, should carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with accessing specialized medical care. Understanding the available options and proactively planning for healthcare transportation is crucial for ensuring a positive and manageable healthcare experience.