03842, Hampton, New Hampshire Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 03842, Hampton, New Hampshire is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.42 percent of residents in 03842 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 6.27 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hampton, NH (ZIP Code 03842)

Relocating to the picturesque coastal town of Hampton, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03842), promises a life of sandy beaches and charming New England character. However, for individuals managing asthma, the ease of **healthcare access** becomes a critical consideration. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options to medical facilities, offering a nuanced perspective for prospective residents. It's a crucial element for anyone **moving to Hampton**, prioritizing respiratory health.

The primary challenge for residents of Hampton is the town's relative isolation. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, this translates to limited **transportation** choices, especially for those without personal vehicles. The "Asthma Score" considers this, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative mobility solutions.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The cornerstone of **healthcare access** in Hampton revolves around driving. The primary route for accessing medical facilities is via Route 1, a bustling thoroughfare connecting Hampton to neighboring towns. Driving north on Route 1 leads to Portsmouth Regional Hospital (approximately 20 minutes, 12 miles). The drive is generally smooth, although traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly near the Hampton Beach area during summer months.

Heading south on Route 1 provides access to Exeter Hospital (approximately 25 minutes, 16 miles). This journey involves navigating several traffic lights and intersections, potentially exacerbating respiratory symptoms during periods of high pollution. The secondary route, Route 101, offers an alternative, particularly for accessing facilities in Exeter. However, Route 101 can experience heavy traffic, especially during rush hour, adding to commute times.

For specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, residents may need to travel further afield. Boston, Massachusetts, offers a wider range of medical resources, but the commute (approximately 1 hour, 50 miles) via I-95 can be a significant hurdle, especially during peak traffic times. This extended travel time significantly impacts the "Asthma Score," highlighting the importance of readily available local care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Hampton are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals with asthma. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service within the Seacoast region, including Hampton. Route 51, the primary COAST route serving Hampton, offers connections to Portsmouth and Exeter.

However, the frequency of Route 51 is limited, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently, and service is reduced on weekends and holidays. The impact of this limited frequency on the "Asthma Score" is substantial. The time spent waiting for a bus, particularly during inclement weather, can be detrimental to respiratory health. Furthermore, the lack of direct routes to medical facilities necessitates multiple transfers, adding to the complexity and duration of the journey.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for those with mobility limitations. COAST buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the potential for delays can still pose challenges. The "Asthma Score" acknowledges the efforts made to improve accessibility, but the overall limitations of the public **transportation** system significantly impact the score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Hampton, providing an alternative **transportation** option. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Availability can also be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The "Asthma Score" considers the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing services.

Medical **transportation** services are available, specifically for those requiring non-emergency medical transport. These services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and various private providers, offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While providing a valuable service, these options can be expensive and require pre-booking. The "Asthma Score" acknowledges the existence of these services but recognizes their limitations in terms of cost and accessibility.

**The "Asthma Score" – A Summary:**

The "Asthma Score" for Hampton, NH (ZIP Code 03842) is moderate. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the limited **transportation** options significantly impact **healthcare access** for individuals with asthma.

The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing medical facilities, coupled with the limitations of public transit, necessitates careful planning. Residents must factor in potential traffic delays, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical **transportation**.

The score emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong relationship with local healthcare providers. Proactive management of asthma, including regular check-ups and access to readily available medications, is crucial.

For those **moving to Hampton** with asthma, the "Asthma Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions. It underscores the need for a comprehensive assessment of individual needs and the development of a robust **transportation** plan to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. While Hampton offers a peaceful setting, the accessibility of medical care requires careful consideration and proactive planning.