03858, Newton, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03858, Newton, New Hampshire is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.49 percent of residents in 03858 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 9.53 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Newton, NH (ZIP Code 03858)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a critical consideration. For residents of Newton, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03858), understanding the ease and accessibility of transportation to medical facilities is paramount. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the transportation landscape, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, all crucial elements influencing healthcare access. This information is especially pertinent for those considering moving to Newton, weighing the practicalities of daily life alongside their health needs.

The primary healthcare destinations for Newton residents are likely to be in nearby towns and cities, including Exeter, Portsmouth, and Haverhill, Massachusetts. These locations house hospitals, specialized cancer centers, and a range of medical practices. The primary artery for automobile travel is Route 107, connecting Newton to Exeter and beyond. Driving to Exeter Hospital, a common healthcare destination, typically takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey involves navigating Route 107 and, depending on the specific destination within Exeter, connecting to Route 111 or Route 108.

For those seeking more specialized care, Portsmouth Regional Hospital, located in Portsmouth, is another important option. The drive to Portsmouth involves traveling east on Route 107, then merging onto Route 125, before connecting to the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16). The total drive time to Portsmouth Regional Hospital can range from 40 to 50 minutes, again contingent on traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. The Spaulding Turnpike is a limited-access highway, offering a faster, albeit toll-based, route.

Haverhill, Massachusetts, accessible via Route 107 and then Interstate 495, presents another option for healthcare access. This route, however, involves crossing state lines and potentially navigating heavier traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes. Drive times to healthcare facilities in Haverhill can vary significantly, ranging from 35 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic congestion.

Public transportation options in Newton are limited. The Co-operative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation (COAST) provides some bus service in the region, but it primarily serves the coastal communities and does not offer direct routes to many of the primary healthcare destinations. Furthermore, the frequency of service on existing routes can be limited, and the routes themselves may not be ideal for individuals with mobility challenges or those undergoing cancer treatment. ADA accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on COAST buses, but the overall reliance on public transportation for healthcare access in Newton is not optimal.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or treatments. Availability can also be a concern, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. For individuals undergoing cancer treatment, the financial burden of frequent ride-sharing trips can be substantial.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, are also an option. Companies like CareRide and MediRide offer specialized transportation, often with trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or have mobility limitations. However, these services often come with higher costs compared to standard ride-sharing or public transportation.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Newton, NH (03858) must acknowledge the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services. While drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles or the financial burden of alternative transportation options can present challenges. For individuals considering moving to Newton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the associated transportation requirements is essential.

The availability of convenient and affordable transportation is a critical determinant of healthcare access. For breast cancer patients, this becomes even more crucial. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care necessitate reliable transportation. The ability to easily and affordably travel to these appointments can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and overall well-being.

The journey to healthcare is not simply about the distance; it's about the ease, affordability, and reliability of the transportation options. In Newton, NH (03858), while drive times are generally reasonable, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential costs associated with alternative services create a less-than-ideal scenario. This is especially true for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, who may face physical limitations and financial constraints.

For those considering moving to Newton, a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape is essential. This includes assessing the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, the accessibility of medical transportation options, and the potential for relying on family or friends for transportation. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of these considerations, underscoring the need for a thoughtful approach to healthcare access in this community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects the complexities of accessing healthcare in Newton, NH (03858). While the area offers a relatively convenient location for drive times, the limited public transportation options and the potential costs of alternative transportation services must be carefully considered. For those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding these factors is essential in navigating the healthcare system and ensuring timely access to necessary care. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and a realistic assessment of transportation needs when considering moving to Newton.