03448, Gilsum, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03448, Gilsum, New Hampshire is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.08 percent of residents in 03448 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 6.68 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gilsum, NH (ZIP Code 03448)

The crisp air of Gilsum, New Hampshire, a charming New England town, holds a certain allure. But for those contemplating a move, especially those with a history of or a heightened risk for lung cancer, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the realities of navigating transportation to medical facilities, crafting a “Lung Cancer Score” based on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents and prospective movers, ensuring informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is a composite metric, weighing factors like drive times to specialized oncology centers, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It acknowledges that timely access to quality healthcare is critical for lung cancer patients, impacting treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. Therefore, the lower the score, the better the healthcare access.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Gilsum, nestled in the Monadnock Region, presents a geographical challenge. The nearest comprehensive cancer care is not immediately at hand. The primary route to Keene, the regional hub for healthcare, involves a drive along **NH Route 10** and then **NH Route 12**. This journey, typically taking around 15-20 minutes in ideal conditions, provides access to Cheshire Medical Center, a Dartmouth Health affiliate, which offers a range of oncology services.

However, the drive time is subject to seasonal variations. Winter storms can significantly extend travel times, potentially delaying crucial appointments or treatments. Furthermore, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can add to the commute. While the roads are generally well-maintained, the rural nature of the area means that emergency services response times can also be affected by distance.

For more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients might need to travel to larger medical centers in Lebanon, New Hampshire, or even Boston, Massachusetts. The drive to Lebanon involves taking **NH Route 10** north, connecting to **NH Route 12A** and then **Interstate 89**. This journey can take approximately one hour, depending on traffic.

The journey to Boston is considerably longer. It involves taking **NH Route 10** south, connecting to **NH Route 101** east, and then **Interstate 95**. This drive can take upwards of two hours, and even longer during peak hours. The potential for extended travel times highlights the importance of planning and considering the impact of weather and traffic on healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Gilsum are limited. The primary mode of public transit is the **Keene Dial-A-Ride**, a demand-response service operated by the City of Keene. This service provides transportation within the city limits and surrounding towns, including Gilsum. However, it requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

The **Keene Dial-A-Ride** offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the service. However, the service operates on a limited schedule, and the availability of rides can be affected by demand. Furthermore, the travel time to Keene, the primary destination for healthcare, adds to the overall commute time.

The lack of a robust public transportation network presents a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle or who are unable to drive. This is especially relevant for lung cancer patients, who may experience fatigue, mobility limitations, or other health issues that make driving difficult.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Keene area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Gilsum may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of medical transport, but this varies depending on the policy.

**The Lung Cancer Score for Gilsum (03448)**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Gilsum, NH (03448) is moderately challenging. While the proximity to Keene provides relatively easy access to basic oncology services, the limitations in public transportation, the potential for extended drive times to specialized care, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly alternative transportation options contribute to the challenges.

* **Drive Time to Keene (Cheshire Medical Center):** 15-20 minutes (Score: 2)
* **Drive Time to Lebanon (Dartmouth Health):** Approximately 1 hour (Score: 3)
* **Drive Time to Boston:** 2+ hours (Score: 4)
* **Public Transportation:** Limited availability, requires advance booking (Score: 3)
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Potentially limited, cost considerations (Score: 3)
* **Medical Transport Availability:** Available, but potentially expensive (Score: 3)

**Overall Score: 3 (Moderate)**

**Implications for Moving and Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Gilsum, this score highlights the importance of careful planning regarding healthcare access. Those with a history of lung cancer or a high risk of developing the disease should consider the following:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** While Keene offers basic oncology services, the need for specialized care might necessitate longer travel times.
* **Transportation Dependence:** Relying on personal vehicles is crucial, and having backup transportation plans is essential.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for medical transport and other related services.
* **Support Network:** Establishing a local support network, including family, friends, or community organizations, can be invaluable.

Moving to Gilsum can be a rewarding experience, offering a tranquil lifestyle. However, understanding the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing lung cancer, is vital. By carefully assessing the transportation landscape and planning accordingly, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure that their healthcare needs are met. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for this assessment, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and a clear understanding of the available resources.