03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.50 percent of residents in 03869 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wentworth-Douglass Hospital with a distance of 1.98 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rollinsford, NH (ZIP Code 03869)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands a comprehensive understanding of the local landscape. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment for Rollinsford, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03869), focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities specializing in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Rollinsford, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

Rollinsford, a quaint New England town, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, its proximity to larger medical centers is crucial. This assessment will explore the transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, ultimately providing a clearer picture of the ease with which residents can access vital medical services.

**The Foundation: Drive Times and Roadways**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Rollinsford is the personal vehicle. The primary roadways dictate the speed and convenience of reaching medical appointments. The major arteries are crucial for any transportation plan.

For specialized prostate cancer care, the closest comprehensive facilities are located in Dover, Portsmouth, and Rochester, New Hampshire, and potentially in southern Maine. The drive to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, a likely first point of contact, is generally a quick 10-15 minute journey, primarily utilizing Route 4. This short commute offers a significant advantage for residents needing frequent check-ups or urgent care.

Heading to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, the trip expands to approximately 25-35 minutes, involving Route 4 and the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16). The Spaulding Turnpike, a limited-access highway, generally offers a smooth and efficient travel experience, though traffic can be heavier during peak hours.

Rochester, accessible via Route 125, offers another option, though drive times can vary. Depending on the specific destination, the journey can take between 20-30 minutes. This provides a wider range of choices for patients, potentially impacting their overall healthcare experience.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Rollinsford and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The availability of public transit significantly influences the healthcare access score, particularly for individuals unable to drive.

The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service in the Seacoast region. However, the routes and schedules may not directly serve Rollinsford with the frequency needed for regular medical appointments. While COAST does offer connections to Dover and Portsmouth, the routes might involve transfers and extended travel times, making them less ideal for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. COAST buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps or lifts and designated seating. However, the limited frequency and route coverage remain a significant barrier.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers play a vital role in filling the gaps in public transportation. These options offer flexibility and convenience, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.

Uber and Lyft operate in the Rollinsford area, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, impacting the overall affordability of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and ensuring patients arrive safely at their appointments. The cost and availability of these services can vary, requiring careful research and planning.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **Care Ride:** A medical transportation service that offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** While primarily known for emergency services, AMR may offer non-emergency transportation in some areas.
* **Senior Transportation:** Local options may exist to provide transportation for seniors.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Rollinsford, considering the factors discussed, would be moderately impacted by the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles. The score is a composite measure of the factors that impact healthcare access.

The score would reflect the relatively short drive times to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, a significant advantage. However, the longer travel times to Portsmouth and Rochester, coupled with the limited public transit options, would negatively impact the score. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers would provide a boost, but their cost and availability would need to be considered.

**Moving to Rollinsford: A Transportation-Conscious Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Rollinsford, particularly those with a history of prostate cancer or at high risk, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning.

The proximity to Dover's Wentworth-Douglass Hospital is a significant advantage. However, individuals should factor in the potential travel times to Portsmouth and Rochester, as well as the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Rollinsford reflects a mixed bag of advantages and challenges. The short drive to Dover provides a crucial advantage. However, the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles require careful consideration. By understanding the transportation options available, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure they can receive the timely and appropriate care they need. This analysis emphasizes the importance of proactive planning when considering a move to Rollinsford, ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority.