03442, Bennington, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03442, Bennington, New Hampshire is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.99 percent of residents in 03442 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monadnock Community Hospital with a distance of 7.86 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 03442

The quaint New England town of Rindge, New Hampshire, nestled in ZIP Code 03442, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about lung cancer. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, crucial for navigating the journey from home to medical facilities, and ultimately informs a "Lung Cancer Score" reflective of the ease and efficiency of accessing vital care. This information is especially pertinent for individuals **moving to Bennington** and considering the healthcare options available.

The primary factor influencing the "Lung Cancer Score" is the time and effort required to reach facilities capable of diagnosing and treating lung cancer. In 03442, residents are geographically situated between Keene, New Hampshire, and Bennington, Vermont. Both offer healthcare options, but the journey to each presents distinct **transportation** considerations.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** in this rural area. The most direct route to Keene, approximately 20 miles away, involves traversing Route 202 East. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak hours or inclement weather. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The Cheshire Medical Center, a primary healthcare provider in Keene, offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Alternatively, the journey to Bennington, Vermont, about 25 miles from Rindge, utilizes Route 119 West and then Route 9 West. This route offers scenic views but is also subject to potential delays due to winding roads and varying speed limits. The drive time is similar to that of Keene, typically around 45 minutes to an hour. Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington offers cancer care services, making it a viable option for residents of 03442.

Public **transportation** options in 03442 are limited. The Monadnock Regional Transportation Authority (MARTA) provides bus service, but the routes serving Rindge are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to larger towns like Keene. Route 12, for instance, might offer a connection, but its schedule is often insufficient for timely medical appointments. Furthermore, ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are available on MARTA buses, but the limited service frequency can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Availability is dependent on driver presence, and wait times can be significant. This unreliability poses a challenge for scheduled medical appointments and emergency situations, impacting the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available for individuals requiring assistance. These services, however, can be costly and are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs, such as those requiring stretcher transport. They don't generally serve as a primary means of **transportation** for routine appointments, thus impacting the **healthcare access** score.

The availability of support services for cancer patients in 03442 further influences the "Lung Cancer Score." Support groups, counseling services, and access to palliative care are crucial components of comprehensive cancer care. The availability and accessibility of these resources, often located in Keene or Bennington, are directly tied to the ease of **transportation**.

Considerations for individuals **moving to Bennington** from 03442 include the potential need to establish new healthcare providers and navigate a new **transportation** network. The proximity to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington could be a significant advantage, but the challenges of rural **transportation** remain.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 03442 must reflect the limitations of the **transportation** infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public **transportation**, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The longer drive times, compared to urban areas, increase the risk of delays and the potential for stress, which can negatively impact patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the score should consider the availability of specialized cancer care. While both Keene and Bennington offer cancer services, the specific expertise and resources available at each facility may vary. This necessitates careful consideration of the specific needs of each patient and the ability to access the appropriate level of care.

For individuals **moving to Bennington** who are concerned about lung cancer, the "Lung Cancer Score" would need to be adjusted based on their proximity to Bennington and their ability to navigate the **transportation** options. The score should reflect the increased ease of access to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, but also acknowledge the potential challenges of establishing new healthcare relationships and navigating a new environment.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 03442 is moderate. While both Keene and Bennington offer cancer care services, the rural nature of the area and the limited **transportation** options present significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public **transportation**, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The score is also impacted by the availability of support services and the need to navigate the **transportation** network. The score is especially relevant for those **moving to Bennington** and seeking to understand the complexities of **healthcare access** in this rural region. Careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options are crucial for ensuring timely access to vital medical care.