03244, Hillsborough, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03244, Hillsborough, New Hampshire is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.05 percent of residents in 03244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monadnock Community Hospital with a distance of 16.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 03244

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when considering a move, particularly for individuals with health concerns. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 03244 (Hillsborough, New Hampshire), evaluating its "Lung Cancer Score" by examining transportation options to and from healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of accessibility, enabling informed decisions for residents and prospective movers.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers several factors: drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. This assessment considers the time and effort required to reach critical healthcare resources, a vital aspect of quality of life and effective treatment.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Hillsborough is by car. The town's location necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most medical appointments. The primary highways and roads serving 03244 are Route 202 and Route 31. Route 202 provides direct access to Keene and Concord, cities with hospitals and specialized medical centers. Route 31 connects Hillsborough to other towns and cities in the region.

Drive times vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For example, reaching Concord Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes via Route 202. Keene, with Cheshire Medical Center, is a shorter drive, around 30 to 45 minutes, also utilizing Route 202. These times assume normal traffic flow; peak hours or adverse weather can significantly increase travel duration, impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in 03244 are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive bus network. This lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or have limited mobility. This deficiency underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

While there are no fixed-route buses, some regional services might offer demand-response transportation, requiring advance booking. However, these services often have limited hours of operation and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The absence of accessible public transportation further complicates healthcare access for those with disabilities, requiring careful consideration of ADA-compliant features.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Solutions:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including American Medical Response (AMR) and several smaller, local providers. These services are often pre-booked and can be expensive, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or utilize other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Hillsborough:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 03244 reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities by car, the limitations in public transportation and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services raise concerns about healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Hillsborough, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer, a thorough evaluation of transportation needs is essential. The ability to drive or the availability of a reliable caregiver are crucial. Researching medical transport options and understanding the costs associated with these services is also critical.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Individuals considering a move to 03244 should prioritize healthcare access. Before making a decision, potential residents should:

* **Assess their transportation needs:** Can they drive, or will they need assistance?
* **Research local healthcare facilities:** Identify hospitals and specialists specializing in lung cancer care.
* **Investigate medical transport options:** Obtain quotes and understand the availability of services.
* **Consider the cost of transportation:** Factor in the expense of driving, ride-sharing, or medical transport.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 03244 highlights the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access. While the area offers a degree of accessibility, the limitations in public transportation and the potential reliance on alternative transportation options require careful consideration. By understanding the available resources and planning accordingly, residents and prospective movers can ensure they have access to the healthcare they need, enhancing their quality of life and promoting effective treatment outcomes. The success of healthcare access hinges on a well-considered plan, particularly when considering a move to a rural area like Hillsborough.