03249, Gilford, New Hampshire Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 03249, Gilford, New Hampshire is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.86 percent of residents in 03249 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Concord Hospital- Laconia with a distance of 3.73 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gilford, NH (ZIP Code 03249)

Considering a move to the picturesque lakeside town of Gilford, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03249)? Beyond the stunning views and recreational opportunities, prospective residents must assess their healthcare access, particularly concerning specialized care like prostate cancer treatment. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options impacting healthcare access for individuals residing in or considering a move to Gilford, focusing on prostate cancer care. The goal is to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" based on the ease and efficiency of getting to necessary medical appointments.

Gilford, nestled in the heart of the Lakes Region, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation from major metropolitan areas necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options, especially for those requiring regular appointments, such as men undergoing prostate cancer treatment. We will explore the available routes, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options.

The primary artery serving Gilford is **Interstate 93 (I-93)**, the main north-south thoroughfare. Driving south on I-93 provides access to Concord, approximately an hour away, and Manchester, about an hour and fifteen minutes, both offering comprehensive medical facilities. Traveling north on I-93 connects to Plymouth, roughly a 45-minute drive, and Littleton, a further two hours. These towns also host healthcare providers.

From Gilford, the drive to the nearest major hospital with advanced cancer care, **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon**, is a significant undertaking. The most direct route involves taking I-93 South to I-89 North, a journey of approximately two hours and fifteen minutes. This drive time, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours and seasonal tourist influx.

Secondary roadways, such as **Route 3**, **Route 11**, and **Route 106**, offer alternative routes, but they generally add to the overall travel time. Route 3, running parallel to I-93, provides a slower, scenic option, while Route 11 and Route 106 connect Gilford to neighboring towns and offer access to smaller medical facilities. These roads are crucial for accessing local primary care physicians and specialists closer to home, potentially reducing the need for long-distance travel for routine check-ups and initial consultations.

Public transportation options in Gilford are limited. The **Lakes Region Community Services (LRCS)** offers a demand-response transportation service, providing rides for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and the general public within the Lakes Region. While this service can be valuable for those unable to drive or lacking access to a vehicle, it requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments. Information regarding ADA accessibility is available through LRCS directly.

Unfortunately, Gilford lacks a robust public transit system with fixed routes and schedules. This reliance on personal vehicles or demand-response services significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals undergoing prostate cancer treatment, which often necessitates frequent visits for radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or follow-up appointments. The lack of public transit further complicates the situation for those without access to a car or those who can no longer drive due to their condition or other medical reasons.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Lakes Region, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is risky, as surge pricing, limited driver availability, and potential delays can create significant logistical challenges. It is essential to factor in the potential for increased costs and travel time when considering ride-sharing as a primary transportation option.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. **American Medical Response (AMR)** and other private ambulance services operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services are often more reliable than ride-sharing, but they can be significantly more expensive. The cost of medical transportation can be a considerable burden, especially for patients with limited financial resources.

For individuals undergoing prostate cancer treatment, the transportation challenges are compounded. Radiation therapy, for example, often requires daily appointments for several weeks. Chemotherapy also necessitates regular visits. The cumulative travel time and associated costs can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and potentially affect their adherence to treatment protocols.

When assessing healthcare access in Gilford, the "Prostate Cancer Score" must consider the following factors: the distance to specialized cancer centers, the reliability of transportation options, the cost of travel, and the availability of support services. A higher score indicates easier access to care. In the case of Gilford, the score is moderately impacted by the following:

* **Drive Times:** The significant drive times to major cancer centers, particularly Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, are a major factor.
* **Public Transit:** The lack of a robust public transit system severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services poses a challenge.
* **Medical Transportation:** The cost of medical transportation can be a significant barrier.

Considering these factors, Gilford receives a moderate "Prostate Cancer Score." While the town offers a beautiful and desirable living environment, prospective residents, especially those with existing health concerns, should carefully evaluate the transportation challenges associated with accessing specialized medical care. The need to plan for longer travel times, potential transportation costs, and the limited availability of public transit must be factored into the decision-making process. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for ensuring access to timely and effective prostate cancer care.