03878, Somersworth, New Hampshire COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 03878, Somersworth, New Hampshire is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.56 percent of residents in 03878 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wentworth-Douglass Hospital with a distance of 2.80 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Somersworth, NH (ZIP Code 03878)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for transportation to healthcare facilities in Somersworth, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03878), offering a "COPD Score" based on various factors impacting healthcare access. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering moving to Somersworth.

The very fabric of life with COPD is interwoven with the need for frequent medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency care. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape becomes a crucial determinant of overall well-being. The COPD Score aims to illuminate the practical realities of accessing healthcare within this community.

Somersworth, a city nestled in the Seacoast region, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The city is relatively compact, but the surrounding geography and the reliance on private vehicles necessitate a careful examination of the available options. The primary healthcare providers for Somersworth residents include Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester, Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, and various clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout the region.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

The most common mode of transportation in Somersworth is the personal vehicle. Drive times to key healthcare facilities are a critical component of the COPD Score. Reaching Frisbie Memorial Hospital, located approximately 5 miles away in Rochester, typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route is via **Route 16**, a major thoroughfare connecting Somersworth to Rochester. Traffic can be heavier during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover is roughly 9 miles away, and the journey typically takes 15-25 minutes. The most direct route involves **Route 16** south, followed by **Route 9**. Again, traffic congestion, particularly around Dover's downtown area, can significantly impact travel times.

Specialist offices and clinics located further afield, such as those in Portsmouth or Exeter, require longer drives. These trips necessitate navigating **Route 95**, the major interstate highway, adding to the complexity of travel planning. The COPD Score will account for these longer distances and the associated challenges, such as the potential for increased fatigue and exposure to environmental factors.

The condition of the roads and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities also contribute to the overall score. Potholes, icy conditions during winter, and limited parking can exacerbate the difficulties faced by individuals with COPD.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation in Somersworth is provided by the COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) system. COAST offers bus routes that connect Somersworth to neighboring towns, including Dover and Rochester. However, the frequency of service and the coverage area are limited.

For individuals with COPD, the availability of accessible public transit is crucial. COAST buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the reliance on bus schedules and the potential for delays can present challenges.

The COPD Score will consider the accessibility of bus stops, the frequency of routes serving healthcare facilities, and the overall reliability of the public transit system. The lack of direct routes to all healthcare providers and the potential for extended travel times will be factored into the assessment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Somersworth. These services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of ride-sharing can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist with patient transfers. Several medical transport providers operate in the Seacoast region, including local ambulance companies and specialized transportation services.

The COPD Score will evaluate the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The ability to secure transportation in a timely manner, especially for urgent medical needs, is a crucial factor.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The COPD Score for Somersworth (ZIP Code 03878) will be a composite score, reflecting the interplay of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The score will be designed to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access within the community.

The score will consider the following factors:

* **Drive Time Reliability:** The consistency of travel times to key healthcare facilities, considering traffic patterns and road conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of COAST bus routes serving healthcare providers.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Proximity of Pharmacies:** The ease of access to pharmacies for medication refills.
* **Emergency Response Times:** The speed and efficiency of emergency medical services.

This holistic assessment will provide a valuable tool for individuals with COPD, healthcare providers, and community planners. It will inform decisions about where to live, how to access healthcare, and how to advocate for improved transportation options.

**Implications for Moving to Somersworth**

For individuals considering moving to Somersworth, the COPD Score can be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. The score will provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare. This information is particularly important for those with COPD, as reliable transportation is essential for managing their condition.

The COPD Score will highlight the need for careful planning, particularly for those who cannot drive. It will emphasize the importance of understanding public transit schedules, ride-sharing availability, and the potential costs associated with medical transport services.

The score will also underscore the importance of advocating for improved transportation options, such as increased public transit service, expanded ride-sharing availability, and enhanced medical transport services.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The COPD Score for Somersworth (ZIP Code 03878) is more than just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all residents. It is a call to action, urging community leaders, healthcare providers, and residents to work together to improve transportation options and ensure that individuals with COPD can access the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The score will serve as a valuable resource for residents, prospective movers, and policymakers, shaping a more informed and supportive environment for individuals managing COPD in Somersworth.