03825, Barrington, New Hampshire Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 03825, Barrington, New Hampshire is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.89 percent of residents in 03825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frisbie Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.95 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Barrington, NH (ZIP Code 03825)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Barrington, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03825), offer a bucolic charm, a haven for those seeking respite from urban clamor. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting demands a careful consideration of **healthcare access**. This write-up serves as an “Asthma Score” assessment, meticulously examining the **transportation** landscape to nearby healthcare facilities, crucial for managing this chronic respiratory condition. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for residents and prospective newcomers considering **moving to Barrington**.

The primary concern for asthmatics is timely access to medical care during an exacerbation. This necessitates a thorough understanding of the **transportation** infrastructure connecting Barrington to hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialists. The “Asthma Score” considers the ease and reliability of reaching these facilities, especially during emergencies when every minute counts.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Barrington's location in Strafford County dictates reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare-related trips. The primary arteries connecting Barrington to essential medical services are the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16) and Route 4. These highways are vital lifelines, but their efficiency is subject to traffic patterns and weather conditions, factors asthmatics must vigilantly consider.

Dover, approximately 15 minutes south via the Spaulding Turnpike, houses Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, a primary healthcare provider. This drive is generally straightforward, but morning and evening commutes can introduce delays. Route 4 provides another route, albeit with more traffic lights and potential congestion.

Rochester, situated about 20 minutes north via the Spaulding Turnpike, offers Frisbie Memorial Hospital. Again, the Spaulding Turnpike provides a relatively direct route, but rush hour and inclement weather can impact travel times. Route 125, a secondary road, offers an alternative, but it is often slower and less direct.

Portsmouth, a major regional hub, is roughly a 40-minute drive south via the Spaulding Turnpike and Route 95. This journey provides access to specialized care at Portsmouth Regional Hospital and various specialist practices. However, the increased distance and potential for heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours, necessitate careful planning.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in Barrington are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the healthcare needs of asthmatics.

Route 301, a COAST route, provides limited service, potentially connecting Barrington to Dover and Rochester. However, service frequency is infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve medical facilities. Checking the COAST website for updated schedules and route maps is essential.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. COAST buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the limited service frequency and potential for longer travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for asthmatics experiencing acute symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Barrington, offering a potential solution for non-emergency medical appointments. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for urgent care is not advisable.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. These companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Companies like Care Ride and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region. These services require advance booking, making them suitable for scheduled appointments but less practical for unexpected emergencies.

**Evaluating the "Asthma Score"**

The "Asthma Score" for Barrington, NH, reflects a mixed picture. While the Spaulding Turnpike and Route 4 offer relatively quick access to hospitals in Dover and Rochester, the reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. Limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services create potential challenges for individuals without reliable access to a car.

The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable safety net for scheduled appointments. However, the need for advance booking limits their usefulness during acute asthma episodes.

The score would be higher for residents with reliable access to personal vehicles. Those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing face greater challenges in accessing timely medical care. The score also considers the individual's ability to plan and prepare for potential emergencies, including having a readily available emergency action plan and access to necessary medications.

**Recommendations for Asthmatics Considering Barrington**

Individuals with asthma considering **moving to Barrington** should carefully assess their **transportation** needs. Prioritize proximity to essential healthcare facilities, weighing the convenience of driving against the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing.

Develop a comprehensive emergency action plan, including readily available medications and a designated emergency contact. Establish relationships with local healthcare providers and pharmacies to ensure easy access to care and prescriptions.

Familiarize yourself with the Spaulding Turnpike, Route 4, and other local roads, understanding potential traffic patterns and alternative routes. Explore the availability of medical transport services and have contact information readily accessible.

Consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times and plan accordingly. The "Asthma Score" is not a fixed number but a dynamic assessment. It is influenced by individual circumstances and preparedness. By carefully evaluating these factors, asthmatics can make informed decisions about **healthcare access** and navigate the challenges of living in a rural setting while maintaining optimal health.