03275, Suncook, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03275, Suncook, New Hampshire is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.27 percent of residents in 03275 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New Hampshire Hospital with a distance of 6.09 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Suncook, NH (ZIP Code 03275)

The crisp air of Suncook, New Hampshire, beckons with the promise of a quieter life. For those considering a move to this charming town, nestled in the heart of the Granite State, understanding the complexities of healthcare access, especially concerning a serious illness like lung cancer, is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment for residents of ZIP code 03275, focusing on transportation options to specialized medical facilities. The analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all crucial factors in determining the ease of accessing potentially life-saving treatments.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' isn't a single number but a nuanced evaluation. It assesses the practicality of reaching specialized lung cancer care, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of various transportation modalities. This is particularly vital given the time-sensitive nature of diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and prompt intervention significantly improve patient outcomes. Therefore, the ability to reach qualified oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists with minimal delay is a critical determinant of the overall score.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Suncook is, undoubtedly, the private automobile. The convenience and flexibility of a personal vehicle are difficult to overstate, particularly when dealing with the unpredictable nature of medical appointments and treatments. The nearest major medical centers specializing in lung cancer care are located in Concord and Manchester, New Hampshire.

To reach Concord Hospital, a drive typically involves navigating Route 28, a major thoroughfare connecting Suncook with the state capital. The journey, covering approximately 15 miles, usually takes around 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Route 28 can experience congestion during peak commuting hours, potentially adding to travel time. The route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present challenges, necessitating careful driving and potentially delaying travel.

For access to the larger healthcare networks in Manchester, such as Elliot Hospital or Catholic Medical Center, the journey is slightly longer, approximately 25 to 35 miles. This typically involves taking Route 106 South to Interstate 93 North. This route is generally efficient, but I-93 can experience significant traffic, especially during rush hour, particularly near the Manchester exits. Travel time can range from 40 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic volume. The quality of these roadways is generally good, but the potential for traffic delays must be factored into the 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Suncook and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of bus routes is a significant factor in the 'Lung Cancer Score'. Concord Area Transit (CAT) provides some service in the Concord area, but its routes and schedules may not directly serve Suncook or offer convenient connections to medical facilities. Furthermore, the frequency of service can be infrequent, and routes may not operate during evenings or weekends, severely limiting access to care for those without personal vehicles.

The Manchester Transit Authority (MTA) operates a more extensive network, but reaching Manchester from Suncook via public transit requires multiple transfers and can be a lengthy process. The lack of direct routes and the potential for long wait times significantly impact the 'Lung Cancer Score'. Moreover, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. While the MTA strives to provide accessible services, the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access in this area presents considerable challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Suncook may be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could make them an expensive option for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather, must also be considered.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. Companies such as AMR (American Medical Response) and local private ambulance services often provide this type of transportation. The 'Lung Cancer Score' must consider the cost, availability, and reliability of these specialized services.

**Healthcare Access and the 'Lung Cancer Score':**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for residents of ZIP code 03275 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Concord and Manchester offers access to specialized medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional support, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

For individuals considering a move to Suncook, the 'Lung Cancer Score' suggests that those with personal vehicles will have significantly better healthcare access. Those reliant on public transportation or with mobility limitations may face greater challenges in reaching specialized lung cancer care. Careful consideration of these factors is essential when making decisions about moving to this area, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not a static measure. Improvements in public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of medical transport options could positively impact the score over time. Furthermore, the development of telehealth services could mitigate some of the transportation challenges by allowing for remote consultations and monitoring.

**Conclusion: Moving to Suncook and Lung Cancer Care:**

Ultimately, the decision to move to Suncook, NH, is a personal one. However, for individuals concerned about lung cancer care, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is critical. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services must be carefully weighed. The 'Lung Cancer Score' serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare access and empowering them to make informed decisions about their future in this charming New England town. The availability of specialized medical care, coupled with the challenges of transportation, shapes the overall healthcare access picture, influencing the quality of life for residents and shaping the experience of moving to Suncook.