03583, Jefferson, New Hampshire Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 03583, Jefferson, New Hampshire is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.19 percent of residents in 03583 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Weeks Medical Center with a distance of 7.69 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jefferson, NH (ZIP Code 03583)

The crisp air of Jefferson, New Hampshire, whispers promises of tranquility and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, this small town offers a respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. However, for those considering a move to this idyllic locale, especially individuals concerned about their health, a crucial factor demands consideration: **healthcare access**, particularly concerning the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment for ZIP Code 03583, meticulously examining **transportation** options to relevant medical facilities.

The cornerstone of any healthcare evaluation is understanding the proximity and accessibility of specialized medical care. For prostate cancer, this translates to the availability of urologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical facilities equipped with advanced technologies. In Jefferson, the nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, necessitating travel. This geographical reality significantly influences the "Prostate Cancer Score," directly impacting the ease with which residents can access timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The primary mode of **transportation** in and out of Jefferson is by personal vehicle. The town is served by several major roadways, each influencing the drive times to healthcare facilities. Route 2, a vital east-west artery, provides the most direct route to Littleton, approximately 20 miles west. This drive, under normal traffic conditions, should take around 30 minutes. Route 115, a scenic north-south highway, offers access to Lancaster, roughly 15 miles north. Travel time to Lancaster is usually around 25 minutes. The availability of these relatively straightforward routes is a positive factor in our score, offering residents a degree of control over their healthcare journey.

However, the mountainous terrain of the White Mountains introduces inherent challenges. Winter weather, with its heavy snowfall and icy conditions, can significantly extend drive times and potentially impede access to care. This seasonal variability must be factored into any assessment of **healthcare access** in Jefferson. The reliability of these roadways, especially during inclement weather, is a critical consideration.

Public **transportation** options in Jefferson are limited. The Coös County Transit system provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are limited, primarily serving local needs. The availability of buses to medical centers in Littleton or Lancaster is minimal, making public **transportation** an impractical option for most residents seeking specialized prostate cancer care. Furthermore, the accessibility of these limited services for individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects, is an important consideration. The lack of robust public **transportation** options negatively impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score."

The rise of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has offered alternative **transportation** solutions in many areas. However, the availability of these services in Jefferson is extremely limited, if available at all. The sparse population density and geographical isolation make it unlikely that these services would be readily accessible or economically viable. This lack of ride-sharing options further restricts **healthcare access** for residents.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive themselves. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** providers. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and availability may be subject to scheduling constraints and prior arrangements. The reliance on medical **transportation** adds another layer of complexity to the **healthcare access** equation.

For individuals considering **moving to Jefferson**, the implications of these **transportation** realities are significant. The ability to independently drive to medical appointments is a crucial factor. Those without reliable personal vehicles or those with physical limitations may face significant challenges in accessing timely and consistent care. The reliance on family, friends, or medical **transportation** services can introduce logistical and financial burdens.

The nearest hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are located in Littleton, NH (Littleton Regional Healthcare) and in Berlin, NH (Androscoggin Valley Hospital). Littleton Regional Healthcare offers a cancer center with urology services, radiation oncology, and surgical capabilities. Berlin also offers urology services. The drive to Littleton, as previously mentioned, is approximately 30 minutes under ideal conditions. The drive to Berlin, while farther at approximately 50 miles, is still a reasonable commute, taking around an hour.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Jefferson, NH (ZIP Code 03583) reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its location. The score is moderated by the availability of personal vehicle **transportation** and the relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities in Littleton and Berlin. However, the score is significantly reduced by the limited public **transportation** options, the potential for weather-related disruptions, and the scarcity of ride-sharing services. The reliance on medical **transportation** services adds to the complexity and cost of **healthcare access**.

In conclusion, while Jefferson offers a desirable lifestyle, those with prostate cancer or at high risk should carefully consider the **transportation** challenges associated with accessing specialized medical care. The "Prostate Cancer Score" for this area is moderate, with improvements in public **transportation** or the availability of ride-sharing services significantly improving the score. Prospective residents should prioritize their healthcare needs and carefully evaluate their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape when making decisions about **moving to Jefferson**.