The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 03581, Gorham, New Hampshire is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
70.34 percent of residents in 03581 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Androscoggin Valley Hospital with a distance of 6.25 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 03581, Gorham, New Hampshire
COPD Score | 32 |
---|---|
People Score | 52 |
Provider Score | 48 |
Hospital Score | 38 |
Travel Score | 28 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 03581 | Gorham | New Hampshire |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 5.06 | 5.06 | 1.54 |
1 Car | 31.09 | 31.09 | 15.54 |
2 Cars | 35.90 | 35.90 | 44.29 |
3 or More Cars | 27.95 | 27.95 | 38.64 |
Vehicular Access in 03581, Gorham, New Hampshire
## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gorham, NH (ZIP Code 03581)
The crisp mountain air of Gorham, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03581), offers a certain allure, drawing individuals seeking a tranquil life amidst stunning natural beauty. However, for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the very essence of this environment – the clean air and the rugged terrain – can present unique challenges. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within this ZIP code, specifically focusing on the transportation landscape that patients with COPD must navigate to receive essential medical care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering moving to Gorham or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.
The ability to reach healthcare providers swiftly and reliably is paramount for COPD patients. This is especially true during exacerbations, when prompt medical intervention can be life-saving. In Gorham, the primary mode of transportation is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town's relative remoteness dictates this reality, making the car a vital lifeline to healthcare access.
Driving times to the nearest healthcare facilities are a significant factor. The Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin, approximately 10 miles away, represents the closest major medical facility. Travel time along Route 2, the primary east-west thoroughfare, typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during inclement weather, common in the White Mountains, this can easily double, creating a potential crisis for those experiencing a COPD flare-up. The drive is generally straightforward, but the winding nature of Route 2, especially through the scenic but potentially challenging Pinkham Notch, demands careful driving.
For more specialized care, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in the region, such as Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, or Maine Medical Center in Portland, ME. These trips necessitate significantly longer drives, potentially exceeding two to three hours depending on traffic and weather. Route 2, connecting Gorham to the east, eventually merges with Interstate 95, providing access to Portland. Similarly, Route 16, heading south, offers access to the more southern regions. The drive to Lebanon, NH, requires navigating a network of smaller roads and highways, including Route 16 and the Kancamagus Highway, known for its breathtaking views but also its potential for challenging driving conditions, especially during winter.
Public transportation options in Gorham are limited. The Coös County Transit, while offering some services, does not have a robust network that directly addresses the needs of COPD patients. Their routes are infrequent and primarily focus on providing transportation within the county. The lack of frequent, accessible public transit represents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or who are unable to navigate the complexities of driving, especially during times of respiratory distress. ADA accessibility is a crucial factor, and the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses is essential for those with mobility limitations. Information regarding ADA features and route schedules should be readily available to those who need them.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Gorham, but their availability can be unpredictable. The limited driver pool and the town's rural location mean wait times can be substantial, and the cost can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments. This reliance on ride-sharing, while offering a potential solution, is not a dependable substitute for reliable and accessible transportation.
Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and specialized non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a critical role in healthcare access for COPD patients. The availability and response times of these services are crucial during emergencies. Local ambulance services are equipped to handle acute respiratory distress, but the speed of response can be affected by the town's geographical remoteness. NEMT providers offer transportation to scheduled medical appointments, providing a valuable service for those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of NEMT services and their coverage of specific healthcare providers should be thoroughly investigated.
Moving to Gorham with COPD necessitates careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, assess the accessibility of transportation options, and understand the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times. Proximity to medical facilities, the reliability of transportation, and the availability of emergency services are all critical factors to consider.
Healthcare access in Gorham, while presenting some challenges, is not insurmountable. Careful planning, proactive engagement with healthcare providers, and awareness of available transportation resources can help individuals with COPD thrive in this beautiful and tranquil environment. The COPD score for Gorham, NH, reflects the need for comprehensive planning, prioritizing accessible transportation, and ensuring that healthcare access remains a top priority for residents. The quality of life in Gorham can be enhanced by addressing the transportation needs of those with COPD, ensuring that the beauty of the White Mountains is accessible to all.
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