03464, Stoddard, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03464, Stoddard, New Hampshire is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.63 percent of residents in 03464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 13.98 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stoddard, NH (ZIP Code 03464)

The crisp air of Stoddard, New Hampshire, a haven of rolling hills and verdant forests, offers a serene backdrop for life. Yet, for residents of ZIP Code 03464, the tranquility can mask a critical challenge: accessing timely and effective healthcare, particularly when facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** for potential and current residents, considering the impact of these factors on the quality of care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decisions about **moving to Stoddard**.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the distances and the available modes of transport. The nearest hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, including CT scans, PET scans, and chemotherapy, are primarily located in Keene, NH, and sometimes in Lebanon, NH. These journeys, while scenic, present significant hurdles for individuals experiencing the debilitating effects of lung cancer.

Driving, the primary mode of transport in this rural area, presents the first layer of complexity. From the center of Stoddard, accessing Cheshire Medical Center in Keene necessitates a drive of approximately 20-25 miles. This route predominantly utilizes NH Route 123, a winding road that offers beautiful views but can be challenging during inclement weather. The final leg of the journey often involves navigating the busy thoroughfares of Keene, adding to the overall travel time.

Alternatively, a trip to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, extends the journey to roughly 60-70 miles. This route initially follows NH Route 123, merging onto NH Route 10, and then eventually onto I-89 North. This longer drive presents its own set of challenges, including increased fuel costs and the potential for fatigue, especially for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of parking at both hospitals is another factor to consider, as parking fees can add to the financial burden of treatment.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Stoddard. The Monadnock Regional Transportation Authority (MARTA) offers some services, but these are infrequent and may not directly serve the specific needs of patients requiring frequent hospital visits. Furthermore, the lack of readily available public transport underscores the reliance on private vehicles or alternative arrangements.

The absence of robust public **transportation** options necessitates a reliance on private vehicles, family members, or alternative services. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden for patients.

Medical **transportation** companies, such as AMR or Careline, offer specialized services for patients who require assistance with travel. These companies provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and prior arrangements are often required, making them less than ideal for spontaneous appointments or emergencies.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of **transportation** options is another critical consideration. While ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** companies are generally required to provide accessible vehicles, the availability of these vehicles may be limited. Public **transportation**, when available, should adhere to ADA standards, but the infrequency of service in Stoddard diminishes its practical value.

The challenges associated with **transportation** are further compounded by the physical and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis. Patients often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms that make travel difficult. The stress of navigating long distances, coordinating **transportation**, and managing the financial burden can significantly impact their quality of life and their ability to adhere to treatment plans.

The availability of local healthcare resources within Stoddard is limited. While the town may have a primary care physician or a small clinic, these facilities typically do not offer specialized services for lung cancer diagnosis or treatment. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers, further exacerbating the **transportation** challenges.

Beyond **transportation**, other factors influence the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of support services, such as cancer support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs, is crucial for patients and their families. The proximity to these resources can significantly impact the patient's ability to cope with the emotional and practical challenges of the disease.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 03464 reflects the interplay of these factors. The score is likely to be lower than in areas with better access to healthcare and more readily available **transportation** options. The limited public **transportation**, the reliance on private vehicles, and the long distances to specialized medical centers create significant hurdles for patients.

For individuals considering **moving to Stoddard**, a thorough assessment of these factors is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs, assess the availability of support services, and consider the potential financial implications of healthcare access.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a crucial tool for informing healthcare decisions. It underscores the need for proactive planning, including identifying reliable **transportation** options, establishing a support network, and understanding the financial implications of healthcare access. This information empowers individuals to make informed choices about their healthcare and their well-being.