03032, Auburn, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03032, Auburn, New Hampshire is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.77 percent of residents in 03032 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elliot Hospital with a distance of 4.56 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Auburn, NH (ZIP Code 03032)

Considering a move to Auburn, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03032)? The crisp air and charming New England landscape beckon, but before you pack your bags, it's crucial to assess your access to healthcare, particularly if you're concerned about lung cancer. This analysis, focusing on transportation options, provides a "Lung Cancer Score" to help you understand the ease with which you can reach vital medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, all essential components of **healthcare access**.

The primary concern for anyone facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized care. Early detection and treatment are critical, making the journey to a pulmonologist, oncologist, or radiation oncologist a matter of life and death. This write-up explores the realities of **transportation** in and around Auburn, offering a realistic picture for potential residents.

Auburn, a town of rolling hills and scenic vistas, presents a unique challenge. While offering a peaceful, rural lifestyle, it’s also somewhat geographically isolated. The nearest major medical centers are primarily located in Manchester, a city approximately 10 miles east. This distance is crucial, as it dictates how quickly you can receive critical care.

**Driving the Roads to Recovery**

Driving remains the most common mode of **transportation** for residents of Auburn. The primary routes to Manchester involve navigating the well-maintained, yet sometimes congested, highways. From Auburn, the most direct route is via **Route 101 East**, a major east-west thoroughfare. The drive to the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, a prominent regional healthcare provider, typically takes between 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

During peak rush hour, the commute can stretch significantly, potentially exceeding 45 minutes. This delay could be crucial for those experiencing symptoms of lung cancer or needing immediate treatment. Another option involves taking **Route 121** south, connecting to **Route 293** and then **Interstate 293** to reach Manchester. This route, while slightly longer in distance, can sometimes offer a faster alternative depending on traffic patterns.

For those seeking care at Catholic Medical Center, also in Manchester, the drive times are similar, with the same considerations for traffic. Both hospitals provide comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic services, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Understanding these drive times is a fundamental element in evaluating your **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in Auburn and the surrounding areas is limited. The Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is nearby, but the focus is air travel. There is no direct bus service from Auburn to Manchester. This lack of public **transportation** significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, making access to medical appointments challenging.

While the Manchester Transit Authority (MTA) operates a network of bus routes within Manchester, these routes do not extend to Auburn. This means relying on friends, family, or alternative **transportation** options is often necessary. ADA-accessible buses are available on MTA routes, but the lack of service to Auburn severely limits their usefulness for residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Auburn, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other private ambulance companies, provide specialized transport for patients with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door **transportation**, including stretcher transport, and are often covered by insurance. However, these services are typically reserved for patients with specific medical requirements and are not always the most practical option for routine appointments.

**Medical Transportation Brands and Services**

Several medical **transportation** brands operate in the area. These include, but are not limited to, First Response Ambulance Service, Inc., and Care Ambulance Service. These services provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair and stretcher services. These are vital for those who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Your Risk**

Considering the **transportation** landscape, we can assign a preliminary "Lung Cancer Score" for Auburn, NH (03032). This score is not a scientific metric, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While the distance to Manchester is relatively short, traffic can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Very Limited. The lack of public transit severely restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate. Ride-sharing services offer an alternative, but availability and cost are concerns.
* **Medical Transport:** Available. Medical **transportation** services provide crucial support for those with specific needs.

**Overall Assessment:**

Auburn's "Lung Cancer Score" is **moderate**. While driving offers reasonable access to medical facilities, the lack of public transit and potential traffic delays create challenges. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** options. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides some support, but these options come with their own limitations.

**Making an Informed Decision: Moving to Auburn**

If you are considering **moving to Auburn**, it's essential to carefully evaluate your individual **healthcare access** needs. Consider your personal **transportation** options, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative services.

If you have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk, the potential for longer commute times and limited public transit should be carefully considered. It might be beneficial to explore options like living closer to Manchester or ensuring reliable access to a personal vehicle.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to move to Auburn is a personal one. By understanding the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, you can make an informed choice that prioritizes your health and well-being. Understanding the potential challenges in accessing care is crucial for anyone contemplating a move, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.