03840, Greenland, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03840, Greenland, New Hampshire is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.46 percent of residents in 03840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Portsmouth Regional Hospital with a distance of 4.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 03840

The air hangs heavy with the salt-laced promise of the Atlantic in ZIP Code 03840, Greenland, New Hampshire. Nestled between the Piscataqua River and the bustling Seacoast, this small community offers a tranquil existence, but the serenity can be shattered by the specter of illness, particularly lung cancer. Assessing healthcare access, a critical component of the overall well-being, requires a deep dive into the transportation landscape. This is especially vital for those facing a diagnosis, demanding swift and reliable journeys to treatment centers. This write-up, a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, delves into the available options, offering a nuanced perspective for residents and those considering a move to this picturesque corner of New England.

The most immediate concern for anyone in Greenland facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis is the time it takes to reach a healthcare provider. Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation, and the efficiency of this method heavily influences the “Lung Cancer Score.” The primary arteries for accessing specialized care are the well-maintained roads of New Hampshire. Interstate 95, the primary north-south corridor, provides a direct route to major medical centers in Portsmouth and beyond. A drive south on I-95 towards Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 33, a secondary road, offers an alternative, albeit slower, path to Portsmouth, traversing through the charming towns that dot the Seacoast.

For those seeking specialized oncology services, the drive to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at the Portsmouth Regional Hospital is a critical consideration. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care, including advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options. The drive, primarily via I-95, ensures relatively rapid access to this vital resource. However, the unpredictable nature of traffic, particularly during peak hours, can add significant time to the journey. The “Lung Cancer Score” must account for these potential delays, recognizing that every minute counts when dealing with a serious illness.

Public transportation options in Greenland are limited, which significantly impacts the “Lung Cancer Score.” The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service throughout the Seacoast region. Route 1, the primary COAST route serving Greenland, runs along Route 33 and offers access to Portsmouth and other towns. While the COAST provides a valuable service for those without personal vehicles, the frequency of buses and the travel times can be a significant barrier to timely healthcare access. The route is not designed for rapid transit, and the travel time to Portsmouth Regional Hospital on the COAST can easily exceed 30 minutes, potentially longer during peak hours.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor in evaluating public transportation options. The COAST strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps and other accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the potential for delays can still present challenges for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, or other limitations. This factor weighs heavily on the “Lung Cancer Score,” recognizing the importance of equitable access for all residents.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel times and alleviating the stress of navigating traffic. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for patients who require frequent trips to treatment centers. The “Lung Cancer Score” must acknowledge the potential benefits of ride-sharing while also considering its limitations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring specialized assistance, offer another option. These services typically provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients during their journeys. While medical transport services can offer a higher level of care and convenience, they often come with a higher price tag. The availability of these services and their cost-effectiveness must be factored into the overall “Lung Cancer Score.”

The distance to other healthcare facilities is another consideration. The Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, approximately a 20-minute drive via Route 16, provides additional healthcare services, including oncology support. While not as specialized as the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Wentworth-Douglass offers an alternative for certain treatments or consultations.

The “Lung Cancer Score” also considers the availability of support services within Greenland itself. While Greenland is a small community, access to local pharmacies, primary care physicians, and support groups can significantly improve the quality of life for patients. These resources can reduce the need for frequent trips to larger medical centers and provide a sense of community support.

Considering a move to Greenland, or any location, requires a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access. The “Lung Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 03840 reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to major medical centers via I-95 offers relatively rapid access to specialized care, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for traffic delays present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their cost and availability must be considered. The overall score must reflect the need for proactive planning and a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape to ensure timely and effective healthcare access for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This is especially crucial for those considering moving to Greenland, where the scenic beauty of the area must be weighed against the practical realities of healthcare access.