03835, Farmington, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03835, Farmington, New Hampshire is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.28 percent of residents in 03835 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frisbie Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Farmington, NH (ZIP Code 03835)

The crisp air of Farmington, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03835), carries the promise of a tranquil life. But for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity is often overshadowed by the pressing need for timely and accessible healthcare. This analysis explores the transportation landscape in and around Farmington, examining its impact on healthcare access and providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical services. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Farmington and seeking to understand the realities of healthcare accessibility.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering the various transportation options available to patients. It weighs factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options, all crucial elements in ensuring patients can access potentially life-saving treatments. The score will reflect the relative ease or difficulty of navigating the transportation challenges associated with lung cancer care in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Farmington is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. Driving is the dominant mode of transportation, making the condition of the roads and the distances to medical facilities paramount. Route 11, the primary east-west artery, connects Farmington to nearby towns and cities. Heading east, a drive to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating Route 11 and, potentially, sections of the Spaulding Turnpike (NH-16), known for its high-speed travel.

Southbound on Route 11, the drive to Dover, home to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, is roughly 30-45 minutes. This route presents a slightly less congested travel experience, but still requires careful navigation. The proximity of these hospitals is a significant advantage for Farmington residents. The ability to reach comprehensive cancer care within a reasonable timeframe is a critical factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." The availability of multiple hospitals within a manageable driving distance offers patients choices and potential access to specialized treatments.

Further afield, the drive to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, a renowned cancer treatment facility, is a more significant undertaking, clocking in at approximately 2 hours. This journey involves traversing various highways and roads, including Route 11, Route 104, and Interstate 89. While the quality of these roads is generally good, the distance adds a layer of complexity, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing fatigue.

Public transportation options in Farmington are limited. The Strafford Regional Planning Commission (SRPC) provides some public transit services, but these are primarily focused on local routes and are not designed to specifically address the needs of patients requiring frequent trips to distant medical facilities. Currently, there is no direct public transit route that connects Farmington to Portsmouth or Dover. The limited public transportation availability significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for any public transit service. While the SRPC strives to provide accessible services, the limited scope of their operations makes it challenging for patients with mobility limitations to rely on public transit for their healthcare needs. Furthermore, the lack of readily available public transit options increases the reliance on other transportation alternatives.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Farmington area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients, particularly those undergoing long-term treatment. This factor negatively impacts the "Lung Cancer Score" as it increases the financial strain on patients.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and smaller, local providers often operate in the area. These services typically provide transportation in specialized vehicles with trained personnel, ensuring patient safety and comfort. However, medical transport services can be expensive and may require pre-booking. The availability of these services is a positive factor in the "Lung Cancer Score," but their cost and potential limitations must be considered.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Farmington, NH (ZIP code 03835) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to hospitals in Dover and Portsmouth provides a significant advantage, offering relatively short drive times for accessing essential cancer care. However, the limited public transportation options, the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. The long drive to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center adds another layer of complexity.

For someone moving to Farmington, the "Lung Cancer Score" suggests a need for careful planning. Individuals should consider the availability of reliable transportation, the potential costs associated with medical transport or ride-sharing, and the importance of having a support system to assist with transportation needs. The ease of access to healthcare is a crucial consideration when contemplating a move, and understanding the transportation landscape is a vital step in making an informed decision.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not intended to discourage anyone from moving to Farmington. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The availability of quality healthcare is essential, and understanding the transportation options available is a critical first step in ensuring that patients can receive the care they need. This information is vital for residents and those considering moving to Farmington.