03282, Wentworth, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03282, Wentworth, New Hampshire is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.86 percent of residents in 03282 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Speare Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.80 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wentworth, NH (ZIP Code 03282)

The crisp air of Wentworth, New Hampshire, paints a picturesque scene, but the beauty belies a critical consideration: healthcare access. For residents, particularly those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to quality medical care is intertwined with the realities of transportation. This Lung Cancer Score analyzes the available transportation options within and around ZIP code 03282, assessing their impact on healthcare access and ultimately, patient outcomes.

The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. It aims to provide a comprehensive picture for individuals contemplating a move to Wentworth, as well as for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare journey. The goal is to empower informed decisions, ensuring that the promise of a peaceful New Hampshire life doesn't come at the expense of timely and effective medical care.

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Wentworth are the state highways, specifically Route 25 and Route 118. Driving to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, a major regional healthcare provider, is the benchmark. The drive, primarily via Route 25 and Interstate 89, covers approximately 45 miles and, under ideal conditions, takes about an hour. However, New Hampshire winters, with their snow and ice, can significantly extend this commute, potentially doubling the travel time. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, requiring frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care.

Other healthcare options are available, but they also involve travel. Littleton Regional Healthcare, roughly 30 miles north, provides certain services, but may not offer the specialized oncology care available at DHMC. The drive to Littleton, primarily via Route 25 and Route 302, takes approximately 45 minutes under normal conditions. The distance and potential for inclement weather remain significant factors.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in Wentworth. There are no local bus routes directly serving the town. The closest public transit is likely the Advance Transit, a free bus service operating in the Upper Valley region. However, even with Advance Transit, accessing DHMC from Wentworth would necessitate a multi-stage journey, involving a drive to a pick-up location, transfer, and a significant time commitment. This is not a viable option for many patients, especially those with mobility limitations or undergoing treatment. The lack of ADA-accessible features on all routes adds another layer of complexity for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the Upper Valley, but their availability in Wentworth is variable. While they might be available for trips to DHMC, their reliability can be affected by factors such as driver availability, time of day, and weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing, particularly for frequent medical appointments, can quickly become a financial burden. This also limits the ability for individuals to access healthcare.

Medical transportation services offer a dedicated solution for patients needing assistance. Several providers, including specialized medical transport companies, operate in the region. These services provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and can be a valuable resource for patients who are unable to drive or lack other transportation options. The cost of these services can vary, and it is crucial for patients to explore insurance coverage and financial assistance programs.

The Lung Cancer Score for Wentworth, NH (03282) is significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create obstacles to healthcare access. The drive times to DHMC and other healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, pose a significant challenge for patients.

For individuals considering moving to Wentworth, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Assessing the impact of transportation on healthcare access is vital when moving to Wentworth. Understanding the drive times, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport, and the limitations of public transit are essential considerations.

Current residents of Wentworth facing a lung cancer diagnosis should actively explore all available transportation options. This includes discussing their needs with their healthcare providers, investigating financial assistance programs for transportation, and exploring the availability of medical transport services. Planning and preparation are key to ensuring timely access to care.

The Lung Cancer Score for Wentworth, NH (03282) highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the beauty of the region is undeniable, the challenges of getting to medical appointments require careful consideration. Proactive planning, awareness of available resources, and a willingness to adapt are essential for navigating the healthcare journey in Wentworth. The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents can access the care they need, when they need it, regardless of the transportation challenges they face. This is a fundamental aspect of quality of life and a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to this picturesque New Hampshire town.