03827, East Kingston, New Hampshire Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 03827, East Kingston, New Hampshire is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.35 percent of residents in 03827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 5.44 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in East Kingston (03827)

The air crackles with a certain crispness in East Kingston, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03827), a town nestled in the Seacoast region. But for individuals managing asthma, this idyllic setting demands careful consideration. The “Asthma Score” for this locale assesses the ease of accessing healthcare, a critical factor in managing this respiratory condition. This write-up examines the transportation landscape, a vital component of healthcare access, for those considering moving to East Kingston or already residing here.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in East Kingston is the availability of medical facilities. While the town itself doesn't boast a hospital, several healthcare providers are within a reasonable driving distance. Exeter Hospital, a prominent regional hospital, is a crucial destination for emergency care and specialized treatments. Reaching Exeter Hospital from East Kingston predominantly involves navigating Route 107, a winding but relatively straightforward artery, and then connecting to Route 101, a major east-west thoroughfare. The drive typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Another essential healthcare hub is Portsmouth Regional Hospital, situated further east. This journey requires a longer commute, generally taking around 30 to 40 minutes. The route involves traveling east on Route 107, connecting to Route 150, and then merging onto Route 95, a major interstate highway. Route 95 can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours, which can significantly impact drive times and potentially exacerbate asthma symptoms due to prolonged exposure to vehicle emissions.

For routine check-ups and specialist appointments, individuals in East Kingston often utilize local practices and clinics. Several primary care physicians and specialists are located in nearby towns like Kingston, Brentwood, and Exeter. These appointments typically involve shorter drives, primarily using Route 107 and local roads, making them more accessible for regular care. This proximity is a significant advantage for individuals with asthma, allowing for timely access to necessary medical attention.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve East Kingston. Bus Route 14, for example, connects Exeter to Kingston, but its frequency is limited, and it may not align with healthcare appointment times. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on COAST buses, such as wheelchair lifts, are vital for individuals with mobility challenges, but reliance on public transit presents challenges for those with asthma, particularly during periods of heightened respiratory distress.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. For individuals with asthma, the convenience of ride-sharing must be weighed against the potential for exposure to allergens or irritants within the vehicles.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like Carelink and American Medical Response (AMR) provide specialized transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals with severe asthma or those who require assistance with mobility. However, these services often require advance booking and may involve higher costs than other transportation methods.

The “Asthma Score” for East Kingston must consider the interplay of various transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access is significant, highlighting the importance of reliable transportation. The drive times to Exeter Hospital and Portsmouth Regional Hospital, while manageable, can be affected by traffic and weather conditions. The limited public transportation options and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability pose challenges for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive.

For those considering moving to East Kingston, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. The ease of accessing healthcare is paramount for individuals with asthma, and the availability of reliable and convenient transportation directly impacts their ability to manage their condition effectively. Careful evaluation of the drive times, public transportation options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is crucial.

The town's location, while offering a sense of tranquility, also presents transportation challenges. The absence of a local hospital necessitates travel to neighboring towns, increasing the time and effort required to access healthcare. The limited public transportation infrastructure requires a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transportation, which can affect the affordability and convenience of healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" for East Kingston is not solely determined by the distance to medical facilities. It encompasses the entire transportation ecosystem, including the availability, reliability, and affordability of various modes of transportation. The score reflects the ability of individuals with asthma to access timely and appropriate medical care, a critical factor in maintaining their health and well-being. The availability of diverse transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, is crucial to ensuring healthcare access for all residents.

Therefore, when assessing the suitability of East Kingston for individuals with asthma, a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation infrastructure is essential. The town's location, while offering a desirable lifestyle, demands careful consideration of the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare. The ability to navigate the highways and roads, utilize public transit if available, and access ride-sharing or medical transportation services directly impacts the quality of life for individuals managing asthma in this charming New Hampshire town.