03574, Bethlehem, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03574, Bethlehem, New Hampshire is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.85 percent of residents in 03574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Littleton Regional Healthcare with a distance of 7.33 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bethlehem, NH (ZIP Code 03574)

The crisp mountain air of Bethlehem, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03574), beckons with its promise of tranquility and stunning vistas. Yet, for those considering a move or already residing in this picturesque locale, a critical factor emerges: **healthcare access**. This assessment, the “Lung Cancer Score,” focuses specifically on the challenges and opportunities presented by **transportation** options available for individuals needing lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Understanding these nuances is vital for informed decision-making, especially when battling a serious illness.

The score is not a numerical value but a narrative exploration of the realities faced by residents of 03574. It examines the journey from home to healthcare, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of available **transportation** systems. This is particularly crucial for lung cancer patients who often require frequent appointments, treatments, and ongoing monitoring.

Bethlehem's geographic isolation presents the initial hurdle. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. The primary arteries for **transportation** are the scenic but sometimes treacherous roads. Interstate 93 (I-93) offers the most direct route south, connecting to major medical facilities in Lebanon (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes) and Concord (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes). Northbound, I-93 leads to Littleton (about 20 minutes), where some basic medical services are available, but specialized cancer care is limited. Route 302, a winding, two-lane highway, provides an alternative east-west connection, though it is slower and subject to seasonal weather conditions.

The drive times are estimates, significantly impacted by traffic, weather, and the patient's physical condition. For someone undergoing chemotherapy, a two-hour drive can feel exponentially longer. Winter conditions, common in the White Mountains, can make these routes treacherous and unpredictable, potentially delaying or even preventing access to vital medical appointments. These variables underscore the importance of carefully evaluating **healthcare access** when considering **moving to Bethlehem**.

Public **transportation** options in this rural area are severely limited. The Coös County Transit System (CCTS) provides some bus service, but it is infrequent, with limited routes and schedules. The closest CCTS stops to Bethlehem are in Littleton, and the routes are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. Furthermore, the CCTS’s ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, are crucial for some lung cancer patients, but the limited service area and schedule constraints present significant challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available, but their presence is sporadic and often unreliable in rural areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services prohibitively expensive, further exacerbating **healthcare access** concerns. The availability of these services should not be considered a guaranteed solution for **transportation** needs.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like LifeCare Medical **Transportation** and AMR (American Medical Response) provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are typically booked in advance and can be costly, but they offer a more reliable and patient-centered option than public **transportation** or ride-sharing. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the company's capacity.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 03574 is further complicated by the limited availability of local medical specialists. While Bethlehem has a small primary care clinic, specialized oncology services are absent. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers, increasing the burden on patients and their families. The lack of local support groups and resources for cancer patients further compounds the challenges.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. The added stress of navigating complex **transportation** logistics can significantly impact a patient's well-being and their ability to focus on their treatment and recovery. The financial implications of frequent travel, including gas, tolls, parking, and potential lodging, can also place a significant strain on patients and their families.

For individuals considering **moving to Bethlehem**, it is imperative to thoroughly research the available **transportation** options and assess their suitability based on their individual medical needs and financial resources. This includes contacting local medical **transportation** providers, inquiring about the availability of ride-sharing services, and exploring the feasibility of using public **transportation**, if available.

The **healthcare access** score for 03574 is therefore nuanced. The scenic beauty and tranquility of Bethlehem are undeniable, but the limited **transportation** options and the distance to specialized medical care present significant challenges for individuals battling lung cancer. The absence of readily available, affordable, and reliable **transportation** options translates into a lower "score" for accessibility, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration.

The ideal scenario would involve a robust network of public **transportation**, readily available ride-sharing services, and a strong presence of medical **transportation** providers. Furthermore, the development of telemedicine services and the expansion of local medical facilities would significantly improve **healthcare access** for residents of 03574.

In conclusion, while Bethlehem offers a desirable lifestyle for many, its remote location and limited **transportation** infrastructure necessitate a thorough evaluation of **healthcare access** for individuals with lung cancer. The journey from home to healthcare is not always straightforward, and careful planning is essential to ensure timely access to vital medical services. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for proactive measures to address the **transportation** challenges and improve the quality of life for those facing this difficult diagnosis, especially when considering **moving to Bethlehem**.