03583, Jefferson, New Hampshire COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 03583, Jefferson, New Hampshire is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.19 percent of residents in 03583 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Weeks Medical Center with a distance of 7.69 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Jefferson, NH (ZIP Code 03583)

For individuals grappling with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to readily access healthcare is paramount. In the serene, yet geographically challenging, landscape of Jefferson, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03583), this access hinges heavily on transportation. This write-up provides a comprehensive "COPD Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities, considering various transportation options. This is crucial for those considering moving to Jefferson and managing their COPD.

Jefferson, nestled amidst the White Mountains, presents unique transportation considerations. The primary artery for vehicular travel is **US Route 2**, which snakes its way through the town, connecting it to neighboring communities and healthcare providers. **NH Route 115**, a secondary road, provides access to the northern reaches of Jefferson and connects to the scenic **White Mountain National Forest**. The availability and reliability of these roads, especially during inclement weather, are critical factors in the COPD Score.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant element. The closest hospital, **Androscoggin Valley Hospital** in Berlin, NH, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US Route 2. This journey, while manageable, requires careful planning, particularly during winter months when snow and ice can significantly extend travel times. The COPD Score reflects the importance of factoring in potential delays.

For specialized care, patients may need to travel further. **Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center** in Lebanon, NH, a regional center for pulmonary care, is roughly a 2-hour drive via US Route 2 and Interstate 93. This longer commute necessitates careful consideration of symptom management and potential exacerbations during travel. The COPD Score acknowledges the impact of these longer distances on healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Jefferson are limited. There is no local bus service operating within the town. The **Coös County Transit** provides some services, but routes and schedules are limited and may not directly serve medical facilities. The COPD Score reflects the challenges posed by the lack of robust public transit, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to.

The Coös County Transit does offer **ADA-accessible** vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and route coverage still pose a significant barrier to healthcare access. The COPD Score considers the presence of ADA accessibility but acknowledges its limitations in this specific geographic context.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the broader region, but their presence in Jefferson is sporadic and unreliable. Availability often depends on driver proximity and demand, making them a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments. The COPD Score reflects the uncertainty associated with relying on ride-sharing services in this rural area.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including **Carelink**, **American Medical Response (AMR)**, and **TransCare**. These services provide non-emergency medical transport, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. The COPD Score gives weight to the availability of medical transportation, acknowledging its importance for individuals with COPD.

The COPD Score also considers the impact of weather conditions. Jefferson experiences harsh winters with frequent snowfall and icy roads. These conditions can significantly impact drive times and the reliability of all transportation options. The COPD Score acknowledges the need for contingency planning, including having alternative transportation arrangements and ensuring adequate medication supplies during periods of inclement weather.

For individuals moving to Jefferson with COPD, the COPD Score highlights the importance of pre-planning. This includes identifying reliable transportation options, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and developing a comprehensive plan for managing potential exacerbations. The COPD Score serves as a guide for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.

The overall COPD Score for Jefferson, NH (03583) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the primary road network provides access to essential medical facilities, the limited public transit options, sporadic ride-sharing availability, and the impact of weather conditions pose significant challenges. Medical transportation services offer a valuable resource, but their cost and availability must be considered.

The COPD Score emphasizes the need for individuals with COPD to carefully assess their transportation needs and develop a robust plan for accessing healthcare in Jefferson. This plan should include a combination of personal vehicles, medical transportation services, and contingency arrangements for inclement weather. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for ensuring optimal healthcare access and quality of life for individuals living with COPD in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, community. Understanding these nuances is critical for anyone considering moving to Jefferson.