03217, Ashland, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03217, Ashland, New Hampshire is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.98 percent of residents in 03217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Speare Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.89 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Ashland, NH (ZIP Code 03217)**

The crisp air of Ashland, New Hampshire, a town nestled beside the Squam River, offers a picturesque setting. However, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the beauty of the landscape is often overshadowed by the practicalities of healthcare access. This write-up, designed for potential residents or those considering a move, explores the complexities of transportation and healthcare access in ZIP code 03217, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" to help understand the challenges and opportunities.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the ease of accessing specialized medical care, particularly for lung cancer treatment. It considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This score aims to provide a realistic picture of the logistical hurdles individuals might face when seeking treatment in this rural area.

**Drive Time Realities:**

Ashland, while charming, presents significant transportation challenges. The primary route connecting Ashland to major medical centers is Interstate 93 (I-93). Driving south on I-93 provides access to Concord Hospital in Concord, approximately a 60-minute drive. This is a significant commute, demanding careful planning, especially for regular appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Heading north on I-93, the drive time to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon is approximately 90 minutes. Dartmouth-Hitchcock is a major regional medical center with comprehensive cancer care, including specialized lung cancer treatment. The extended drive time underscores the importance of considering proximity to these facilities when evaluating Ashland as a place to live.

Local roads, such as US Route 3, offer alternative routes, but they are generally slower and can be subject to traffic delays, particularly during peak seasons or inclement weather. These delays can significantly impact the reliability of transportation to and from medical appointments. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the potential need for family support or assistance with transportation.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in Ashland are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The local bus service, provided by the Plymouth Area Transit (PAT), offers some routes within the region. However, these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve the medical centers in Concord or Lebanon.

PAT's routes and schedules should be carefully examined to determine their feasibility for medical appointments. In addition, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the availability of accessible transportation is essential to ensure equal access to healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. Demand may be higher during peak hours, and the limited driver pool in a rural area could lead to longer wait times or even unavailability. Patients should not solely rely on these services for critical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance. These services often provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be costly and require pre-booking. Researching available medical transport providers and their coverage area is crucial.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Breakdown:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ashland, NH (ZIP code 03217) reflects the challenges of healthcare access.

* **Drive Time:** The extended drive times to major medical centers, particularly Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transportation options and infrequent schedules further reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** The variable availability and potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a lower score.

**Moving to Ashland: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

For individuals with a lung cancer diagnosis considering a move to Ashland, careful planning is essential. Prioritizing proximity to medical facilities is paramount. While the serene environment of Ashland is appealing, the practicalities of healthcare access must be carefully weighed.

Before making a move, research the availability of transportation options, including ride-sharing services and medical transport providers. Establish a reliable transportation plan for all medical appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. Consider the potential need for family support or assistance with transportation.

**Conclusion:**

Ashland offers a tranquil lifestyle, but the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the challenges of healthcare access. The extended drive times, limited public transit, and variable ride-sharing options demand careful consideration. Individuals with a lung cancer diagnosis must prioritize transportation planning and ensure a reliable means of reaching medical appointments. Thorough research and proactive planning are essential for navigating the complexities of healthcare access in this beautiful but geographically isolated area. The decision to move to Ashland should be carefully considered, taking into account the potential impact on healthcare access and treatment.