03847, Kearsarge, New Hampshire COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 03847, Kearsarge, New Hampshire is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.50 percent of residents in 03847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital, The with a distance of 1.24 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03847 (Kearsarge, New Hampshire)**

Navigating the challenges of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) requires consistent access to healthcare. This analysis, a "COPD Score," examines the accessibility of medical facilities for residents of ZIP Code 03847 (Kearsarge, New Hampshire), focusing on transportation options and their suitability for individuals with COPD. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Kearsarge, ensuring their healthcare needs can be met.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Kearsarge is the reliance on personal vehicles. The landscape of New Hampshire, with its rural character, necessitates a strong dependence on automobiles for transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the availability of major roadways and the potential for traffic congestion. The primary route for accessing healthcare from Kearsarge is via **Route 107** and **Route 4**.

Driving to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, involves a journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This route utilizes **Route 107** south, connecting to **Route 4**, and then to the hospital. The journey can be arduous for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue. The distance, coupled with potential traffic delays, poses a significant challenge to timely healthcare access.

Similarly, accessing other healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and specialists in nearby towns like Concord or Dover, also requires a reliance on personal vehicles. The drive times to these locations range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific destination and traffic flow. These routes typically involve navigating **Route 107**, **Route 4**, and potentially **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, which can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Public transportation options in Kearsarge are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals with COPD who may not be able to drive. The availability of public transit is crucial for those who cannot drive due to their condition or other limitations. Unfortunately, the public transit system in the region does not offer extensive routes.

The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides some limited bus services in the region, but these routes do not directly serve Kearsarge. The closest COAST route, **Route 1**, primarily serves the Seacoast area, with limited connections to other areas. The routes have some ADA features, such as wheelchair accessibility, but the infrequency of service and the lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities make them less than ideal for individuals with COPD.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability in Kearsarge is variable. The reliability of ride-sharing services can be affected by factors such as driver availability, time of day, and weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, with trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability of medical transportation services in Kearsarge may be limited, and the cost can be substantial. Some of the medical transport brands serving the area are: **Careline Medical Transport**, **American Medical Response (AMR)**, and **Atlantic Ambulance**.

The COPD Score for Kearsarge reflects the challenges faced by individuals with COPD in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and variable ride-sharing availability create significant barriers. The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly during peak hours, can be challenging for individuals with breathing difficulties.

The COPD Score for Kearsarge is a reflection of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The score is influenced by factors such as the availability of major roadways, the frequency of public transit routes, and the reliability of ride-sharing services. The score also considers the availability and cost of medical transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Kearsarge, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access is crucial. The COPD Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in this rural community. Careful consideration of these factors is essential to ensure that individuals with COPD can receive the timely and appropriate medical care they require.

The analysis highlights the importance of planning and preparation for individuals with COPD who reside in or are considering moving to Kearsarge. The challenges associated with transportation necessitate proactive measures to ensure consistent access to healthcare. This may involve exploring various transportation options, establishing relationships with healthcare providers, and developing strategies to manage potential transportation difficulties.

The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access in Kearsarge. It provides a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape and its impact on individuals with COPD. By understanding the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, residents and prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the care they deserve.