03055, Milford, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03055, Milford, New Hampshire is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.73 percent of residents in 03055 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Joseph Hospital with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milford, NH (ZIP Code 03055)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding immediate and comprehensive care. For residents of Milford, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03055), the journey to that care is intricately woven with the fabric of transportation. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare services, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on various transportation options, crucial for anyone considering moving to Milford or already residing there. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Milford is the proximity to Nashua and Manchester, the hubs for specialized medical care. The primary artery for vehicular travel is the **Everett Turnpike (NH-3)**, offering a direct route north to Manchester and south to Nashua. From Milford, the drive to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Manchester, a major cancer center, is approximately 35-45 minutes, again contingent on traffic conditions. These drive times, while manageable, are a crucial consideration for patients undergoing treatment, requiring frequent visits.

Alternative routes include **Route 101**, which can be used to access Nashua, though it often involves more local traffic and potential delays, especially during peak hours. **Route 13** provides a more direct route to Nashua, but it can be congested during rush hour. The reliability of these routes is vital for patients who may be experiencing fatigue or pain, making consistent and predictable travel times paramount.

Public transportation options in Milford are limited, impacting the "Lung Cancer Score." The **Nashua Transit System (NTS)** offers some service in the area, but its routes are not extensive and primarily focus on connecting Nashua with surrounding towns. The availability of routes to and from Milford is limited, and it is essential to verify the current schedules and routes, as they are subject to change. The NTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, a critical consideration for patients with mobility limitations.

The **Manchester Transit Authority (MTA)** also provides bus services in the region, but again, direct routes to Milford are scarce. The reliance on transfers and the potential for long travel times can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without access to a personal vehicle. Public transportation, while an option, may not be the most practical or comfortable choice for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Milford area, offering a more flexible transportation option. The availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in response to weather conditions. Patients relying on ride-sharing need to factor in potential wait times and the financial burden of frequent trips to medical appointments. The reliability of these services is a crucial factor in the "Lung Cancer Score," as patients need consistent access to transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, provide specialized transportation for patients who require assistance. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transportation due to their medical condition. They offer door-to-door service and can accommodate medical equipment, providing a crucial lifeline for patients needing regular treatment. The availability and cost of these services are essential factors in the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Milford, NH (03055) is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive times to major medical centers in Nashua and Manchester are a positive aspect. However, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net for patients with mobility limitations.

The score reflects the balance between these factors. For individuals with access to a personal vehicle, the healthcare access is generally good, with manageable drive times to specialized cancer care. However, for those reliant on public transportation, ride-sharing, or medical transport, the challenges are greater. The cost and availability of these services must be considered, especially for those with limited financial resources.

For those considering moving to Milford, it is crucial to assess their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare. Researching the availability of medical transportation services and the cost of ride-sharing is essential. Understanding the limitations of public transportation is also vital. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a guide, highlighting the complexities of healthcare access in this community.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Milford, NH (03055) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major medical centers offers a significant advantage, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services create challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net. Anyone considering moving to Milford or already residing there should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare resources to ensure they can access the care they need. The highways and roads, the public transit options, and the ride-sharing and medical transport brands, all play a vital role in this equation.