03268, Salisbury, New Hampshire Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 03268, Salisbury, New Hampshire is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.49 percent of residents in 03268 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Concord Hospital- Franklin with a distance of 6.38 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Salisbury, NH (ZIP Code 03268)

Relocating to a new town, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands meticulous planning. This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for accessing healthcare in Salisbury, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03268), focusing on transportation options. The goal is to illuminate the ease and challenges of reaching medical facilities, crucial for managing asthma effectively. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is paramount for residents and those considering moving to Salisbury, ensuring seamless healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all vital for timely medical attention. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling informed decisions about living in this serene New Hampshire community. This assessment acknowledges that unpredictable asthma exacerbations necessitate swift and reliable transportation to healthcare providers.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Route**

For many, the car is the primary mode of transportation in Salisbury. The town's relative remoteness dictates this reality. Accessing specialized asthma care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities. The major thoroughfare influencing healthcare access is Interstate 89 (I-89). This highway offers a direct route to Concord, the state capital, where many specialists and hospitals are located.

Driving to Concord, approximately 20 miles south of Salisbury, typically takes around 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This drive is generally straightforward, utilizing I-89 South. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM), can extend travel times. Residents must factor in these potential delays, especially when dealing with asthma symptoms.

Alternative routes, though less direct, exist. Route 4, which runs east-west, provides a scenic but slower option. This road passes through several towns, offering potential access to urgent care facilities or primary care physicians closer to Salisbury. However, the drive time to Concord using Route 4 is considerably longer, often exceeding 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Salisbury is extremely limited, posing a significant challenge for those reliant on it. The absence of a robust public transit system is a major consideration for individuals with asthma. While the Concord Area Transit (CAT) operates in Concord, providing some bus routes within the city, these services do not extend to Salisbury.

There are no direct public transit routes connecting Salisbury to Concord or other healthcare hubs. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This is a major drawback for individuals considering moving to Salisbury who depend on public transit.

The absence of a reliable public transit system necessitates reliance on alternative transportation options. This includes ride-sharing services, medical transportation, or personal vehicles. The limited public transit options directly impact the "Asthma Score" negatively, highlighting a significant challenge for residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potential solution for transportation. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility. They are particularly valuable for individuals with asthma who may experience difficulty driving or navigating public transit.

Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including specialized ambulance services. These services cater to patients requiring advanced medical care during transport. While these services offer a crucial safety net, their cost can be substantial, potentially impacting the affordability of healthcare access.

**Healthcare Facilities and Considerations**

Salisbury itself has limited healthcare facilities. Residents typically rely on healthcare providers in neighboring towns, particularly Concord. Concord Hospital is the primary hospital, offering a wide range of medical services, including pulmonology and allergy specialists.

Other healthcare facilities in the area include urgent care clinics and primary care physician offices. These facilities can provide immediate care for asthma exacerbations and ongoing management. However, access to specialized care often requires travel to Concord or other larger cities.

The availability of pharmacies is also essential for asthma management. Several pharmacies are located in the surrounding towns, providing convenient access to medications. However, the distance to these pharmacies can be a factor, particularly during emergencies.

**Asthma Score Summary and Recommendations**

The "Asthma Score" for Salisbury, NH (03268) reflects a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. While driving to healthcare facilities is relatively straightforward, the lack of public transit poses a significant challenge. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternative solutions, but their availability and cost must be considered.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Salisbury, careful planning is crucial. This includes:

* **Evaluating personal transportation:** Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended.
* **Assessing insurance coverage:** Confirming coverage for ride-sharing and medical transportation services is essential.
* **Identifying emergency protocols:** Establishing a plan for transportation during asthma exacerbations is vital.
* **Researching healthcare providers:** Identifying local primary care physicians and specialists in advance is recommended.

The "Asthma Score" reflects the need for proactive planning and a reliance on personal transportation. This assessment highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when considering a move to Salisbury, ensuring seamless healthcare access for individuals with asthma.