The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 03846, Jackson, New Hampshire is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
64.93 percent of residents in 03846 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital, The with a distance of 6.52 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 03846, Jackson, New Hampshire
COPD Score | 50 |
---|---|
People Score | 90 |
Provider Score | 50 |
Hospital Score | 33 |
Travel Score | 20 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 03846 | Jackson | New Hampshire |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 1.54 |
1 Car | 30.42 | 30.42 | 15.54 |
2 Cars | 58.25 | 58.25 | 44.29 |
3 or More Cars | 11.32 | 11.32 | 38.64 |
Vehicular Access in 03846, Jackson, New Hampshire
**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03846**
The crisp air of Jackson, New Hampshire, in ZIP code 03846, offers a scenic allure, drawing individuals seeking a life immersed in the White Mountains. However, for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the beauty of this location must be weighed against the practicality of healthcare access. This write-up provides a COPD Score assessment, evaluating the ease of transportation to essential medical services, vital for maintaining respiratory health.
The COPD Score considers various transportation options, meticulously analyzing drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions. This comprehensive evaluation aims to inform individuals with COPD about the realities of accessing healthcare in Jackson, helping them make informed decisions, especially when considering moving to Jackson.
**Drive Times and Road Conditions**
The primary artery serving Jackson is Route 16, a scenic yet often congested highway, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Journeying to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facility, Memorial Hospital in North Conway, entails a drive of approximately 15 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This drive, though relatively short, can be significantly impacted by weather, as snow and ice are prevalent throughout the winter months, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents.
For specialized care, such as pulmonology or advanced respiratory therapy, residents might need to travel to larger medical centers in Portsmouth or Lebanon, New Hampshire. The drive to Portsmouth, primarily via the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 4), extends to roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes, while the journey to Lebanon, utilizing Route 16 and the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), can take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. These longer drives present significant challenges for individuals with COPD, especially during exacerbations.
The roads in Jackson, while generally well-maintained, can be narrow and winding, requiring careful driving. Winter driving conditions necessitate particular caution, demanding vehicles equipped with appropriate tires and experienced drivers. The presence of steep grades on some roads also presents challenges for vehicles with limited power or those towing medical equipment.
**Public Transit Options**
Public transportation options in Jackson are limited. The Conway Scenic Railroad offers a tourist-oriented service, but it does not provide a viable means of transportation for medical appointments. The local bus service, operated by the Conway Area Transportation System (CATS), provides some routes within the Mount Washington Valley, but its service to Jackson is infrequent and primarily caters to tourists and recreational activities.
CATS does offer a demand-response service for individuals with disabilities, including those with COPD, who may require transportation to medical appointments. This service, however, requires advance booking and is subject to availability, potentially creating delays and inconveniences. The ADA-compliant features of CATS buses, such as ramps and securement systems, are beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mount Washington Valley, including Jackson, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transport services are available in the area. These services, often provided by private ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance to and from medical appointments. These services typically accommodate individuals with mobility limitations, providing door-to-door service and assistance with medical equipment. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and advance booking is often required.
**Healthcare Access Considerations**
The availability of healthcare providers in Jackson is limited. The town has a small clinic offering primary care services, but specialized medical care, including pulmonology and respiratory therapy, is not readily available. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers, potentially increasing the burden on individuals with COPD.
The proximity of Memorial Hospital in North Conway provides access to emergency care and some specialized services. However, the availability of specialized pulmonology care within a reasonable distance is a critical factor for individuals with COPD. The need for regular check-ups, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs necessitates reliable transportation to healthcare facilities.
**COPD Score Summary**
Based on the factors discussed, the COPD Score for transportation to healthcare in ZIP code 03846 presents a mixed picture. While the proximity to Memorial Hospital in North Conway offers some convenience, the limited public transit options, the potential for weather-related delays, and the need for travel to larger medical centers for specialized care pose significant challenges.
The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides alternative options, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered. Individuals with COPD considering moving to Jackson should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services before making a decision. Careful planning and proactive arrangements for transportation are crucial for managing COPD effectively in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, location.
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