03448, Gilsum, New Hampshire Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 03448, Gilsum, New Hampshire is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.08 percent of residents in 03448 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 6.68 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gilsum, NH (ZIP Code 03448)**

The picturesque town of Gilsum, New Hampshire, nestled in the Monadnock Region, offers a serene lifestyle. Yet, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a condition like prostate cancer, understanding the transportation landscape becomes crucial. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 03448, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, emphasizing prostate cancer treatment centers. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents and those considering moving to Gilsum.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it evaluates the ease of **transportation** to specialized medical care. This assessment considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, all vital components of **healthcare access**.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Gilsum's rural setting dictates that most medical appointments necessitate driving. The primary arteries connecting Gilsum to larger towns with healthcare facilities are Route 10 and Route 12. Keene, approximately 10 miles south, is the closest hub with a hospital, Cheshire Medical Center, a Dartmouth Health affiliate. The drive to Cheshire Medical Center typically takes 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. Route 10 provides a direct route, offering scenic views but can be subject to seasonal changes, like snow and ice.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger cities. Concord, the state capital, is about 60 miles east, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via Route 9 and I-89. Boston, Massachusetts, a major medical center, is about 90 miles south, reachable in roughly 2 hours via Route 101 and I-95. These longer drives underscore the importance of reliable **transportation**, especially for frequent appointments like those associated with prostate cancer treatment.

Traffic patterns are generally light, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. Snowstorms can make roads treacherous, potentially delaying or canceling appointments. Residents should always factor in extra travel time during inclement weather. The availability of all-wheel-drive vehicles and winter tires is highly recommended for residents of Gilsum.

**Public Transit Options**

Public **transportation** options in Gilsum are limited. The Monadnock Regional Transportation Authority (MRTA) provides bus services in the region, but its routes are primarily focused on Keene and surrounding towns. There is no direct public transit route from Gilsum to Keene.

The MRTA operates demand-response services, which require advance booking, but these services may be available for medical appointments. The MRTA does not have routes that specifically serve Gilsum, but it may be possible to arrange a ride from a nearby town. These demand-response services are not always reliable, and their availability should be confirmed well in advance.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. The MRTA endeavors to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses and lift-equipped vehicles. However, the availability of these accessible vehicles on demand-response routes should be confirmed.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Keene area, but their presence in Gilsum is less consistent. Availability may fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is not recommended, as there is no guarantee of a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical **transportation** services are available for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are often provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

Several medical transport companies serve the Monadnock Region, including American Ambulance Service and Monadnock Ambulance Service. These services offer various levels of care, from basic transportation to advanced life support. Booking these services requires advance notice, especially for non-emergency appointments.

**Medical Facilities and Prostate Cancer Care**

Cheshire Medical Center in Keene is the primary healthcare provider for Gilsum residents. It offers a range of medical services, including primary care, cardiology, and oncology. While Cheshire Medical Center has oncology services, it may not have specialized prostate cancer treatment options like radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures.

For specialized prostate cancer care, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, offers comprehensive cancer care, including advanced prostate cancer treatments. The drive to Lebanon is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via Route 12A and I-89.

The Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, Massachusetts, also offers advanced prostate cancer care. The drive to Burlington is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via Route 101 and I-95.

**Prostate Cancer Score Summary**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Gilsum (03448) reveals a mixed picture. The drive to Cheshire Medical Center is relatively short, providing convenient access to primary care and basic oncology services. However, access to specialized prostate cancer treatment requires longer drives to regional medical centers.

The lack of reliable public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Residents must rely primarily on personal vehicles or medical **transportation** services. This reliance emphasizes the importance of planning and preparedness, especially for those undergoing frequent treatments.

Those considering **moving to Gilsum** should carefully assess their **healthcare access** needs, particularly if they have a history of prostate cancer or are at high risk. The convenience of the rural lifestyle must be weighed against the potential inconvenience of longer travel times for specialized medical care.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Gilsum is moderate. While local access to basic care is reasonable, access to specialized prostate cancer treatment necessitates longer travel times and a reliance on personal **transportation**. Careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options are essential for residents and those considering **moving to Gilsum**.