03450, Harrisville, New Hampshire Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 03450, Harrisville, New Hampshire is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.56 percent of residents in 03450 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monadnock Community Hospital with a distance of 8.14 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03450 (Harrisville, NH)**

The serene, rural landscape of Harrisville, New Hampshire, ZIP code 03450, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its remoteness presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. This analysis assesses the transportation landscape and its impact on a resident's ability to receive timely and comprehensive care. We'll delve into the intricacies of commuting to medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial elements in understanding the prostate cancer score for this community.

The most significant hurdle for residents of Harrisville is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The nearest hospitals with comprehensive cancer care, including urology and oncology services, are located in Keene, NH, and Peterborough, NH. The drive to Cheshire Medical Center in Keene typically takes between 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Harrisville. The primary route involves navigating Route 137, a winding, scenic road that can be affected by weather conditions, especially during the winter months.

Alternatively, residents might consider the drive to Monadnock Community Hospital in Peterborough, which is usually a 20 to 30-minute journey. This trip often involves traveling on Route 101, a major east-west thoroughfare, and then connecting onto local roads to reach the hospital. While Route 101 offers a more direct route, it can experience heavier traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. These drive times are critical considerations for individuals needing frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care related to prostate cancer.

Public transportation options in Harrisville are limited. The region lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There is no direct bus route serving Harrisville. Residents are essentially reliant on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods to access healthcare facilities. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects individuals who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. The absence of accessible public transit significantly lowers the prostate cancer score for this community.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be variable. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for individuals with limited incomes, especially those facing the financial strain of medical treatments. The reliance on ride-sharing adds an element of uncertainty and potential expense to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another option. These services, often offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, can be a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. However, availability and coverage areas vary. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the process of scheduling and coordinating these services can be complex.

For those considering moving to Harrisville, the transportation landscape is a crucial factor to weigh. Individuals with a history of prostate cancer or those at high risk should carefully assess the proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation options. The lack of convenient public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services require careful consideration.

The prostate cancer score for Harrisville reflects the challenges residents face in accessing healthcare. The score is negatively impacted by the long drive times to specialized medical facilities, the absence of a robust public transit system, and the variable availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The score is further affected by the potential impact of weather conditions on travel and the financial burden associated with transportation costs.

The healthcare access challenges in Harrisville highlight the need for innovative solutions. Exploring partnerships with local organizations to provide subsidized transportation, advocating for increased ride-sharing availability, and investigating the feasibility of establishing a community-based transportation program could significantly improve the prostate cancer score. These efforts would improve healthcare access and promote the well-being of residents.

Furthermore, telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving healthcare access. Telehealth appointments can reduce the need for travel, particularly for follow-up consultations and monitoring. Expanding telehealth services, including access to specialists in urology and oncology, could significantly enhance the prostate cancer score.

The prostate cancer score for Harrisville is not static; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to improving healthcare access. Addressing the transportation challenges is essential for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their mobility or financial circumstances, can receive the timely and comprehensive care they need. This requires a multifaceted approach, including infrastructure improvements, community partnerships, and the adoption of innovative technologies.

The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a fundamental aspect of healthcare access. For residents of Harrisville, the journey to healthcare can be a complex and challenging one. Understanding the intricacies of drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative transportation solutions is crucial for assessing the prostate cancer score and identifying opportunities to improve healthcare access for all. This includes the potential impact on the lives of those moving to Harrisville.