03586, Sugar Hill, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03586, Sugar Hill, New Hampshire is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.32 percent of residents in 03586 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Littleton Regional Healthcare with a distance of 6.81 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sugar Hill, NH (ZIP Code 03586)

The crisp air of Sugar Hill, New Hampshire, beckons with promises of scenic beauty and a slower pace of life. However, when considering a move, especially for those with or at risk of lung cancer, the practicalities of healthcare access become paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP code 03586, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport options. This information is crucial for understanding the realities of healthcare access in this picturesque corner of the Granite State.

Sugar Hill itself, a town nestled in the White Mountains, presents a unique challenge. While offering tranquility, it is geographically isolated. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in neighboring towns, requiring careful consideration of transportation options. The "Lung Cancer Score" will help potential residents understand the potential hurdles they might face when needing regular appointments, treatments, or emergency care.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to medical facilities are therefore a critical factor. The closest hospital with comprehensive services, including oncology, is Littleton Regional Healthcare, approximately 10 miles away. The journey primarily involves navigating **Route 117** and **Route 302**. Under ideal conditions, the drive takes roughly 15-20 minutes. However, New Hampshire winters can transform these roads into treacherous passages, significantly extending travel times.

Further afield, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, offers specialized cancer care. This trip, a more significant undertaking, involves traversing **Route 302** east and then south on **Interstate 91**. The total distance is around 70 miles, and the drive can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for those undergoing frequent treatments.

Another option is the Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster, NH. The drive involves taking **Route 117** and **Route 2** and covers approximately 20 miles. Travel time is around 30 minutes, but can be significantly impacted by weather and traffic.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Sugar Hill are extremely limited. The region lacks a robust public transit system, presenting a significant hurdle for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. This is a key factor in the "Lung Cancer Score."

The Coös County Transit (CCT) offers some services, but its routes and schedules are geared towards general transportation needs and may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the CCT’s services may have limited accessibility features for those with mobility challenges, making it less suitable for individuals with lung cancer. Checking the CCT website for current routes, schedules, and ADA-compliant features is essential.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is sporadic. They may be more readily accessible in larger towns like Littleton but could be less reliable in Sugar Hill itself, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not recommended.

Medical transport services are a crucial consideration. Several specialized companies offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can transport patients to and from medical appointments. Some companies also offer stretcher services for those with mobility limitations. Investigating the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area is vital. Researching local providers and understanding their service areas, insurance coverage, and availability is essential.

**Medical Transport Brands to consider:**

* **Carelink:** A national brand with potential presence in the region.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** A well-known provider, with potential services in the area.
* **Local ambulance services:** Contact local emergency services for information.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Sugar Hill, NH, is moderate. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options and the distances to medical facilities present challenges. The score is influenced by several factors:

* **Drive times:** Relatively short drives to Littleton Regional Healthcare are a positive factor. However, longer drives to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center pose a significant challenge.
* **Public transit:** The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the score.
* **Ride-share availability:** Sporadic ride-share services add to the complexity.
* **Medical transport:** The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline.

**Moving to Sugar Hill: Making Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Sugar Hill, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is essential. This assessment should include:

* **Personal vehicle:** Ensure your vehicle is reliable and suitable for winter driving conditions.
* **Medical transport:** Research and establish relationships with medical transport providers.
* **Appointment scheduling:** Plan appointments strategically, considering travel times and potential delays.
* **Support network:** Build a support network of family, friends, or caregivers who can assist with transportation.
* **Insurance coverage:** Confirm insurance coverage for medical transport services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Sugar Hill offers a desirable lifestyle, but healthcare access requires careful planning. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape. While the drive times to Littleton are manageable, the lack of public transit and the potential for long commutes to specialized care centers necessitate a proactive approach. By carefully considering the transportation options, researching medical transport services, and building a support network, residents can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Sugar Hill. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Sugar Hill and should be factored into their decision-making process.