03851, Milton, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03851, Milton, New Hampshire is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.30 percent of residents in 03851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frisbie Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.65 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milton, NH (ZIP Code 03851)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis can be daunting, and the journey to recovery is often paved with frequent medical appointments. For residents of Milton, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03851), understanding the complexities of **transportation** to and from healthcare facilities is paramount. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the landscape of **healthcare access** in the area, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions, offering a comprehensive guide for those facing this challenging reality, and for those considering **moving to Milton**.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Milton lies in its proximity to larger medical centers. The closest major hospital is Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. The primary route is via Route 125, a well-maintained thoroughfare that offers relatively smooth passage. However, peak hours can see congestion, particularly near the intersection with Route 11. For those requiring specialized oncology services, the drive to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover extends the journey to around 30-40 minutes, utilizing Route 125 and the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16). The Spaulding Turnpike, a limited-access highway, generally provides a faster, more direct route, but can experience delays during rush hour.

Beyond these primary destinations, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, and Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA, offer comprehensive cancer care. These trips, however, are significantly longer. Lebanon is a drive of approximately 2.5 hours, primarily utilizing the Spaulding Turnpike, Route 95, and Interstate 89. Boston, a 1.5-2 hour journey, requires navigating the Spaulding Turnpike and Interstate 95, often experiencing significant traffic delays, especially during weekday commutes.

Public transit options in Milton are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are limited, primarily serving the Rochester area. Route 30, for instance, connects Rochester to the Dover Transportation Center, but the schedule may not align with all medical appointment times. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. COAST buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited service area and infrequent schedules can still present difficulties.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unpredictability necessitates careful planning and advance booking, especially for critical medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially adding a substantial financial burden, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services are crucial for those unable to drive or utilize public transportation. Local ambulance services are readily available for emergencies. NEMT providers, such as CareRide and LogistiCare, offer scheduled transportation to medical appointments, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, eligibility requirements and prior authorization may be necessary, and it's essential to plan well in advance to secure transportation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Milton, NH, reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. While the proximity to Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester provides a relatively short drive for basic care, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services for more specialized treatment centers in Dover or Boston presents significant challenges. The limited public transit options and potential cost of ride-sharing further exacerbate the situation. For those considering a move to Milton, or already residing there, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential when navigating the complexities of lung cancer care.

The burden of **transportation** can be a significant stressor during an already difficult time. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and understanding the potential limitations of each mode of transport are crucial. This includes confirming appointment times with transportation schedules, coordinating with family and friends for assistance, and exploring financial assistance programs to mitigate the cost of transportation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a definitive rating, but a comprehensive overview of the **transportation** landscape. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, and the need to advocate for improved **healthcare access** within the community. For those **moving to Milton**, or currently residing there, a thorough understanding of these factors is vital to ensure timely and reliable access to the critical care needed. It’s a crucial consideration in the overall quality of life for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.