03217, Ashland, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03217, Ashland, New Hampshire is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.98 percent of residents in 03217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Speare Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.89 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ashland, NH (ZIP Code 03217)

Ashland, New Hampshire, nestled amidst the Lakes Region's beauty, offers a tranquil lifestyle, attracting those seeking respite from urban hustle. However, prospective residents, especially those managing hypertension, must consider healthcare access. This write-up analyzes transportation options in ZIP code 03217, assigning a "Hypertension Score" to gauge the ease of reaching medical care, crucial for managing this chronic condition. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The Hypertension Score is a subjective assessment, incorporating factors like drive times, public transit reliability, and availability of alternative transportation. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. The score is based on the assumption that timely access to medical care, including regular check-ups and medication refills, is vital for managing hypertension effectively. The score considers the unique challenges faced by individuals with hypertension, such as potential mobility limitations and the need for prompt medical attention.

Ashland's location, while picturesque, presents transportation limitations. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities outside Ashland is Interstate 93 (I-93). Driving south on I-93 provides access to hospitals and clinics in Plymouth (approximately 15 minutes) and Concord (around an hour). Route 3, a secondary road, offers an alternative, albeit slower, route to Plymouth and other surrounding towns. The drive to the nearest hospital, Speare Memorial Hospital in Plymouth, is generally manageable, offering a relatively convenient option for urgent care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles raises concerns for those without access to a car or those with mobility issues.

The drive times, while relatively short to Plymouth, can be impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. Winter weather, common in New Hampshire, can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks. This highlights the importance of considering alternative transportation options. The Hypertension Score is affected by this reliance on personal vehicles, especially for routine check-ups and medication refills, which are critical for managing hypertension.

Public transportation options in Ashland are limited. The Lakes Region Public Transit (LRPT) provides some service within the region, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve Ashland or provide convenient access to healthcare facilities. The LRPT Route 10, while potentially connecting to Plymouth, has limited service hours and may not align with medical appointment schedules. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a concern. While LRPT vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, the overall frequency and coverage of the service remain a significant hurdle. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. Availability is often lower in rural areas compared to urban centers. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The inconsistent availability and potential cost of ride-sharing services negatively affect the Hypertension Score, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as the Medical Transportation Network (MTN) or local ambulance services, can provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require prior scheduling and may have associated costs. The availability of medical transport is a positive factor, but the need for pre-planning and potential costs can still pose challenges. The existence of these services partially mitigates the transportation limitations, but their availability and cost impact the overall score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Ashland, NH (03217) is moderately low. While the drive to Plymouth for healthcare is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and variable ride-sharing availability create challenges. The availability of medical transport services offers a partial solution, but the need for planning and potential costs further complicate healthcare access.

Moving to Ashland, while appealing for its lifestyle, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension must factor in transportation limitations when making their decision. They should assess their ability to drive, explore the availability of ride-sharing, and investigate medical transportation options. Planning for healthcare needs, including routine check-ups and medication refills, is crucial.

For residents managing hypertension, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider in Plymouth or Concord is crucial. Understanding the availability of transportation options and scheduling appointments accordingly is paramount. Exploring the potential for telemedicine appointments, if appropriate, can also enhance healthcare access.

The Hypertension Score serves as a reminder of the importance of transportation and healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions. While Ashland offers a desirable lifestyle, prospective residents must carefully consider the transportation challenges and proactively plan for their healthcare needs. This proactive approach ensures that the beauty and tranquility of Ashland are matched with accessible and reliable healthcare, promoting a healthy and fulfilling life.