03443, Chesterfield, New Hampshire COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 03443, Chesterfield, New Hampshire is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 03443 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cheshire Medical Center with a distance of 9.88 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating the Road to Respiratory Relief in Chesterfield, NH (ZIP Code 03443)

The air in Chesterfield, New Hampshire, a town nestled in the verdant embrace of the Connecticut River Valley, often feels crisp and clean. Yet, for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the journey to breathe easier, particularly in accessing healthcare, can be fraught with challenges. This analysis, a “COPD Score” write-up, assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 03443, evaluating the ease with which individuals with COPD can access necessary medical care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Chesterfield or already residing within its borders.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Chesterfield is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's rural character, while contributing to its charm, significantly limits public transportation options. The major thoroughfare, **Route 9**, bisects the town, connecting it to Keene to the east and Brattleboro, Vermont, to the west. Accessing specialists or emergency care often necessitates travel along this route. Drive times to key medical facilities form the foundation of our score.

The **Cheshire Medical Center**, a Dartmouth Health affiliate in Keene, is a critical healthcare hub. A typical drive from the center of Chesterfield to Cheshire Medical Center, primarily utilizing Route 9, averages around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This relatively short drive time is a positive factor, enhancing the COPD Score. However, the potential for inclement weather, particularly during the harsh New England winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel further. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, a major tertiary care facility, is approximately a one-hour drive, primarily via **Route 9** and **Interstate 89**. This longer travel time, while manageable, presents a significant hurdle for individuals with COPD, especially during exacerbations. The necessity of longer drives can increase fatigue and potentially worsen respiratory symptoms.

Public transportation options in Chesterfield are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The **Keene Dial-A-Ride**, operated by the City of Keene, offers demand-response transportation services within the city limits. However, this service typically does not extend to Chesterfield, further restricting public transit access. This lack of public transportation severely impacts the COPD Score, especially for those with mobility limitations or who cannot drive.

The absence of readily available public transportation forces reliance on alternative modes, such as ride-sharing services. **Uber** and **Lyft** operate in the area, but their availability in Chesterfield is not guaranteed. Ride availability can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergency situations, can be problematic. This uncertainty negatively affects the COPD Score.

Medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with COPD who require assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several medical transport companies serve the region. **Care Ride**, **Ambu-Lift**, and other similar services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially during peak times. The reliability and responsiveness of these services are critical factors impacting the COPD Score.

The availability of medical transport is a significant advantage. However, the need to schedule rides in advance and the potential for delays can add stress and inconvenience for individuals with COPD. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some residents. The COPD Score must factor in the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of these essential services.

For individuals considering moving to Chesterfield, the transportation landscape is a critical consideration. While the town offers a tranquil and scenic environment, the limitations in transportation options must be carefully weighed. Prospective residents with COPD should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the reliability of medical transport services.

The COPD Score for Chesterfield, NH (03443) is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive time to Cheshire Medical Center is a positive aspect. However, the lack of public transportation, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services, and the need to rely on scheduled medical transport services for longer distances significantly diminish the overall score. The potential for inclement weather to disrupt travel further exacerbates these challenges.

Living with COPD requires consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency services. The transportation challenges in Chesterfield can make it difficult for individuals with COPD to maintain this essential access. The COPD Score reflects this reality, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration for those living with or considering moving to Chesterfield.

The COPD Score for Chesterfield, NH (03443) is, therefore, moderate. While the proximity to Cheshire Medical Center offers a degree of convenience, the limitations in public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for travel disruptions necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare access. Residents with COPD must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and develop strategies to ensure they can reliably access the medical care they require. This includes establishing relationships with medical transport providers, coordinating with family and friends, and planning for potential weather-related delays. The ability to navigate these transportation challenges will be crucial to maintaining a good quality of life and effectively managing COPD in Chesterfield.