03856, Newfields, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03856, Newfields, New Hampshire is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.70 percent of residents in 03856 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 3.95 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Newfields, NH (ZIP Code 03856)

The serene landscape of Newfields, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03856), offers a bucolic charm that draws many seeking a respite from the urban hustle. However, the idyllic setting presents a unique set of challenges when considering access to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer. This write-up analyzes the complexities of **transportation** options available for residents of Newfields, focusing on **healthcare access** and providing a framework for understanding the **Lung Cancer Score** in this specific geographic context. Considering a **moving to Newfields** decision requires careful evaluation of these factors.

The **Lung Cancer Score** is a multifaceted assessment, encompassing factors beyond simple drive times. It considers the availability and reliability of various transportation modalities, the proximity and quality of cancer care facilities, and the potential financial burden associated with accessing treatment. For residents of Newfields, the score is significantly influenced by the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services.

The primary arteries connecting Newfields to essential healthcare services are the major roadways. Route 108, a vital north-south thoroughfare, provides a direct link to Exeter, a town offering several medical facilities. Route 101, a major east-west highway, grants access to Portsmouth and Manchester, cities housing more comprehensive cancer treatment centers. The drive times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.

A typical drive from Newfields to Exeter Hospital, a primary care facility, takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 108. This relatively short journey offers a reasonable level of **healthcare access** for basic medical needs. However, the availability of specialized oncology services at Exeter Hospital is limited. For advanced cancer care, residents typically need to travel further afield.

The journey to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a larger facility with a more robust cancer treatment program, involves a 25-35 minute drive, predominantly via Route 101. This increase in travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The potential for traffic congestion on Route 101, particularly during rush hour, adds an element of unpredictability to the commute.

The most comprehensive cancer care in the region is often found in Manchester, home to the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. The drive from Newfields to Manchester, primarily via Route 101 and Interstate 95, can take upwards of an hour, potentially longer during peak traffic. This extended travel time significantly impacts the **Lung Cancer Score**, highlighting the challenges faced by Newfields residents requiring specialized care.

Public transportation options in Newfields are severely limited. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) operates bus routes in the Seacoast region, but service to Newfields is infrequent and primarily geared towards commuting to larger towns. There are no direct routes to major medical centers. The limited frequency and lack of direct routes render public transit an impractical option for most patients requiring regular cancer treatment. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses on these routes is limited, posing an additional barrier for individuals with mobility challenges. This lack of reliable public **transportation** significantly lowers the **Lung Cancer Score**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution. However, the availability of these services in Newfields can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent appointments. The financial strain, coupled with the potential for unreliable service, further complicates **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and may require advance booking. The cost and availability of these services can significantly influence the **Lung Cancer Score**.

The **Lung Cancer Score** also considers the financial burden associated with accessing care. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport services can quickly accumulate, placing a strain on patients and their families. This financial burden can exacerbate the stress of a cancer diagnosis and potentially delay or hinder access to necessary treatment.

For individuals considering **moving to Newfields**, a thorough assessment of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors is crucial. The relative isolation of the town, coupled with the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles, presents a unique set of challenges. The **Lung Cancer Score** for Newfields is, therefore, negatively impacted by these factors.

The quality of cancer care available in the surrounding area is a crucial consideration. While Exeter Hospital offers basic services, the more comprehensive treatment options are located further away in Portsmouth and Manchester. The proximity of these facilities and the ease of **transportation** to them are paramount.

The **Lung Cancer Score** is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated. Changes in **transportation** infrastructure, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of cancer care facilities can all impact the score. Residents of Newfields should proactively investigate these factors and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare services.

In conclusion, the **Lung Cancer Score** for Newfields, NH (ZIP Code 03856) reflects the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare in a rural setting. The limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, and the distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities all contribute to a lower score. Individuals considering **moving to Newfields** or those already residing there should carefully evaluate these factors and develop a proactive plan to ensure adequate **healthcare access**, especially if facing a diagnosis like lung cancer. The availability of reliable **transportation** is a critical determinant of the overall quality of life and the ability to successfully navigate the complexities of cancer treatment.