The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 03079, Salem, New Hampshire is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
57.95 percent of residents in 03079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkland Medical Center with a distance of 7.93 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 03079, Salem, New Hampshire
Arthritis Score | 49 |
---|---|
People Score | 33 |
Provider Score | 66 |
Hospital Score | 18 |
Travel Score | 74 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 03079 | Salem | New Hampshire |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.95 | 1.95 | 1.54 |
1 Car | 14.51 | 14.51 | 15.54 |
2 Cars | 40.69 | 40.69 | 44.29 |
3 or More Cars | 42.86 | 42.86 | 38.64 |
Vehicular Access in 03079, Salem, New Hampshire
## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Salem, NH (ZIP Code 03079)
Considering a move to Salem, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03079) and managing arthritis? This "Arthritis Score" assessment delves into the accessibility of healthcare, focusing on transportation options crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within the area. The goal is to help potential residents with arthritis understand the practicalities of getting to their appointments, a vital factor in overall well-being.
Salem, nestled in Rockingham County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to larger cities. However, navigating the healthcare landscape, especially with arthritis, requires careful consideration of available transportation options. This analysis will consider the practical challenges and opportunities for those seeking healthcare within and beyond the town's borders.
The primary focus will be on the practical aspects of getting to medical appointments. This includes drive times to key healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. The aim is to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities that individuals with arthritis may face in Salem.
**Driving to Healthcare: A Road Map**
For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. Salem's location provides access to several hospitals and specialist clinics. However, the ease of access depends on the specific destination and the time of day. Traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.
The closest major hospital is **Elliot Hospital** in Manchester, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via **Route 28** or **I-93**. This route, while generally efficient, can experience congestion during rush hour. Consider leaving early for appointments to account for potential delays.
**Holy Family Hospital** in Methuen, Massachusetts, is another option, reachable in about 15-20 minutes via **Route 28** or **Route 213**. This route, crossing state lines, might involve additional considerations like insurance coverage.
Specialist clinics and smaller medical practices are scattered throughout the region. Accessing these often involves navigating local roads like **South Broadway**, **North Broadway**, and **Rockingham Park Boulevard**. These roads, while generally less congested than highways, can still experience localized traffic, especially near commercial areas.
For individuals with arthritis, driving can be challenging. Factors like pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion can make it difficult to operate a vehicle safely. Consider the availability of accessible parking, the ease of getting in and out of the car, and the overall comfort of the journey.
**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**
Public transportation in Salem offers a limited but potentially valuable alternative to driving. The **Manchester Transit Authority (MTA)** provides bus service to some areas of Salem, connecting to Manchester and other surrounding towns.
The **MTA Route 1** provides service between Salem and Manchester. This route is crucial for those seeking access to Elliot Hospital and other medical facilities in Manchester. However, the frequency of service may vary, and the travel time can be longer than driving.
The **MTA** also operates buses with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** accessibility features, including ramps or lifts for wheelchairs and other mobility devices. This is a critical consideration for individuals with arthritis. Confirming the availability of these features and the route's suitability for your needs is essential.
Public transportation can be a cost-effective option, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, it requires careful planning and consideration of the schedule, travel time, and accessibility features.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Routes**
Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in Salem, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services offer door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing the physical strain associated with navigating public transit.
However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day and demand. It's essential to factor in potential wait times and the overall cost of the ride.
Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and accessible vehicles.
Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including **CareLink**, **American Medical Response (AMR)**, and **Senior Transportation Services**. These services offer various levels of assistance, from basic transportation to specialized medical care during transit.
Medical transport services can be a valuable resource for individuals with arthritis who require assistance with mobility or medical needs. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transportation.
**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**
Beyond transportation, healthcare access involves other critical factors. The availability of specialists, the acceptance of your insurance plan, and the overall quality of care are all essential considerations.
Salem offers a range of primary care physicians and specialists, but you may need to travel to larger cities like Manchester or Boston for specialized care. Researching the specific healthcare needs and the availability of providers is crucial.
**Moving to Salem: A Strategic Approach**
Moving to Salem with arthritis requires a strategic approach to healthcare access. Consider the following factors:
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Prioritize housing locations near hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
* **Transportation Options:** Evaluate the availability and accessibility of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Medical Needs:** Identify your specific healthcare needs and ensure access to the necessary specialists and services.
* **Financial Considerations:** Factor in the cost of transportation, healthcare services, and insurance coverage.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about moving to Salem and ensure access to the healthcare you need. This includes understanding the practicalities of getting to appointments, a vital aspect of managing arthritis and maintaining a good quality of life.
**The Arthritis Score Summary**
This "Arthritis Score" write-up provides a preliminary assessment of healthcare access in Salem, NH (03079). While driving offers the most flexibility, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services provide alternative options. The best approach involves a combination of these strategies, tailored to individual needs and circumstances. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape and the availability of healthcare services, individuals with arthritis can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and improve their overall well-being.
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