03865, Plaistow, New Hampshire COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 03865, Plaistow, New Hampshire is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.54 percent of residents in 03865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkland Medical Center with a distance of 11.37 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Plaistow, NH (ZIP Code 03865)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable access to healthcare is not merely a convenience, it is a necessity. The ability to quickly and easily reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services can significantly impact quality of life and disease management. This assessment, a “COPD Score,” analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Plaistow, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03865), focusing on the ease of access to healthcare facilities. It considers drive times, public transportation options, and alternative transportation methods, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Plaistow or seeking improved healthcare access.

Plaistow, a relatively small town nestled in Rockingham County, presents a unique transportation profile. While lacking a robust public transit system, its proximity to major roadways and the availability of ride-sharing services offer a mixed bag for healthcare access. The COPD Score will reflect this reality, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the available transportation infrastructure. This analysis aims to empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation in Plaistow is the personal vehicle. The town's location, while offering a degree of rural charm, necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including healthcare appointments. Assessing drive times to key healthcare providers is paramount.

The closest major hospital, **Exeter Hospital**, located in Exeter, NH, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive from Plaistow. The primary route involves taking **NH Route 125** south, a busy thoroughfare that can experience congestion during peak hours. This highway is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a significant factor, especially during weekday commutes. The COPD Score must consider this variable, as unexpected delays can be detrimental to individuals with respiratory conditions.

Another critical healthcare destination is **Holy Family Hospital** in Methuen, Massachusetts. This facility, offering specialized pulmonary care, is approximately a 25- to 40-minute drive, depending on traffic. The route involves traveling south on **NH Route 121A** and then crossing the state line onto **Massachusetts Route 213**. This route can be prone to congestion, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. The COPD Score will incorporate these considerations, emphasizing the need for careful planning and potential for unexpected delays.

For routine appointments and pharmacy access, Plaistow residents often rely on local clinics and pharmacies. **Plaistow Family Medicine**, located within the town, offers primary care services. Drive times to this facility are typically minimal, providing convenient access. Similarly, local pharmacies, such as **CVS Pharmacy** and **Walgreens**, are readily accessible, minimizing travel time for medication refills. This ease of access contributes positively to the COPD Score.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Plaistow's public transportation infrastructure is limited. The **Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT)** provides some bus service in the region, but its routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Plaistow. The nearest SEAT route, the **Route 11** bus, passes through nearby Haverhill, Massachusetts, offering limited access to healthcare facilities in that area. However, this route is not specifically designed for healthcare access and has limited service hours, making it an unreliable option for many.

The **Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)** commuter rail, while offering more extensive service, does not have a station within Plaistow. The nearest station is in Haverhill, requiring a separate mode of transportation to reach. This further complicates healthcare access via public transit.

The COPD Score must reflect the limitations of public transportation in Plaistow. The lack of direct, frequent bus service and the distance to commuter rail stations significantly reduce the accessibility of healthcare for those who cannot or choose not to drive. ADA accessibility features on the limited public transit options are important, but the overall lack of service presents a significant challenge.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Plaistow, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the reliability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. Individuals with COPD must factor in the potential for surge pricing and the availability of drivers when relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **CareRide**, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation. While these services can be valuable, they can also be costly and require advance booking. The COPD Score will consider the availability and affordability of these services as a crucial element of healthcare access.

**Overall COPD Score and Considerations:**

The COPD Score for Plaistow, NH (ZIP Code 03865) reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers convenient access to local clinics and pharmacies, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. Drive times to major hospitals can be significant, particularly during peak hours, and the lack of reliable public transit limits healthcare access for those who cannot drive.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides some alternatives, but their cost and reliability must be carefully considered. Individuals with COPD considering moving to Plaistow or seeking improved healthcare access should prioritize proximity to essential healthcare providers and consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and transportation limitations on their ability to attend appointments and access necessary medical care.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a residence, prioritize locations close to primary care physicians, pharmacies, and emergency services.
* **Plan for traffic:** Factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments and allow ample travel time.
* **Explore ride-sharing and medical transportation:** Investigate the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.
* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Support initiatives to expand public transportation options in the region, particularly those that provide direct access to healthcare facilities.
* **Maintain a support network:** Cultivate a network of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation assistance when needed.
* **Understand your insurance:** Ensure your health insurance covers transportation costs, including ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

By carefully considering these factors and taking proactive steps to address transportation challenges, individuals with COPD can enhance their healthcare access and improve their overall quality of life in Plaistow, New Hampshire. The COPD Score serves as a guide, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensuring they can effectively manage their condition.