03221, Bradford, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03221, Bradford, New Hampshire is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.64 percent of residents in 03221 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 13.30 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bradford, NH (ZIP Code 03221)

The crisp air of Bradford, New Hampshire, nestled amongst rolling hills and the sparkling waters of Lake Massasecum, offers a picturesque New England life. However, when considering the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic facade requires a deeper look. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 03221, examines the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services.

The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transportation services, all crucial elements for patients needing timely and consistent care. The goal is to illuminate the realities of healthcare access for residents and potential newcomers, especially those considering moving to Bradford. The presence of lung cancer necessitates specialized care, including regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Therefore, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape becomes paramount.

For residents of Bradford, the primary artery for vehicular travel is Route 103, which serves as the main thoroughfare. Driving to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, a major regional healthcare provider, entails a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The most direct route typically involves heading west on Route 103, connecting to Interstate 89 South. This highway provides a relatively smooth and efficient journey.

Alternatively, for those seeking care at Concord Hospital, the drive is approximately 40-50 minutes. This route involves heading east on Route 103, then connecting to Interstate 89 North. Both routes, however, are subject to the vagaries of New Hampshire weather, particularly during winter months, potentially increasing travel times and posing significant challenges for patients.

Public transportation options in Bradford and the surrounding areas are limited. The Concord Area Transit (CAT) offers some routes, but their reach into Bradford is minimal. The primary public transit option for accessing healthcare facilities would be the Concord-to-Lebanon route, but this service is not available.

Furthermore, the ADA accessibility of any available public transit is a critical consideration for lung cancer patients, who may experience mobility limitations or require specialized assistance. This includes accessible vehicles, ramps, and priority seating. The lack of robust public transit infrastructure significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score for Bradford.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, their availability and affordability can vary, particularly in rural areas. Patients may encounter longer wait times or higher fares, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another crucial element in the healthcare access equation. Several companies operate in the region, including specialized medical transport services, which can provide non-emergency medical transportation for individuals with mobility limitations. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can be a valuable resource for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The availability of these services and their associated costs, including insurance coverage, directly affect the Lung Cancer Score. The quality of these services, including the reliability of the vehicles and the training of the drivers, is also important.

For individuals contemplating moving to Bradford, these transportation considerations should be a significant factor. The Lung Cancer Score helps quantify the challenges and potential solutions, providing a clearer picture of the healthcare access landscape.

The Lung Cancer Score for Bradford, NH (03221) is influenced by several factors. The relatively long drive times to major healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the potential for variable ride-share availability all contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial mitigating factor, but the cost and reliability of these services are essential considerations.

The score is further impacted by the geographic isolation of Bradford. The town's location in a rural area, while offering scenic beauty, also presents challenges for healthcare access. The distance to major medical centers and the lack of readily available transportation options can create barriers for patients needing regular medical care.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized cancer care within a reasonable distance is a critical factor. Access to oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists is essential for lung cancer patients. The need for regular appointments, including chemotherapy and radiation treatments, necessitates reliable and efficient transportation.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Bradford, NH (03221) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some support, the long drive times, limited public transit, and potential for transportation challenges, especially during inclement weather, contribute to the difficulties faced by lung cancer patients.

The score serves as a valuable tool for residents and potential newcomers, highlighting the importance of careful planning and consideration when navigating the healthcare system. It also emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in rural communities, including exploring options to improve public transportation, enhance ride-sharing availability, and ensure the affordability and reliability of medical transportation services.