03282, Wentworth, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03282, Wentworth, New Hampshire is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.86 percent of residents in 03282 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Speare Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.80 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wentworth, NH (ZIP Code 03282)

The picturesque town of Wentworth, New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, presents a unique challenge for its residents, particularly those managing hypertension. The very beauty that draws people to this rural haven can also complicate their **healthcare access**. This write-up explores the **transportation** landscape surrounding Wentworth (ZIP code 03282), offering a “Hypertension Score” assessment, considering the drive times, public transit, and alternative options for reaching essential medical appointments. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Wentworth** or currently residing there, especially those with hypertension or other chronic conditions.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and often, regular medication. The ability to easily access healthcare facilities is paramount for effective management. This score assesses the ease with which a resident can reach a healthcare provider from their home in Wentworth, weighing factors like distance, road conditions, and available transportation options.

The “Hypertension Score” is a subjective assessment, graded on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 5 representing the easiest. This score considers the practical realities of navigating the area, recognizing that a high score isn't just about proximity, but also the reliability and convenience of transportation options.

**The Geography of Healthcare in Wentworth**

Wentworth, with its sparse population, is geographically isolated. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in the larger towns and cities surrounding it. Plymouth, approximately 15 miles to the east, hosts the nearest hospital, Speare Memorial Hospital, and a variety of primary care physicians and specialists. Woodsville, about 20 miles to the north, also provides healthcare options, including Cottage Hospital. These distances, while seemingly manageable, can become significant when factoring in weather conditions, road quality, and individual mobility challenges.

**Drive Times: The Primary Transportation Mode**

Driving is the predominant mode of **transportation** in Wentworth. The primary routes to access healthcare are via New Hampshire Route 25 (NH-25) and Interstate 93 (I-93). NH-25, a winding two-lane road, provides a direct route east to Plymouth. I-93, a major north-south highway, offers faster access to both Plymouth and Woodsville, but requires navigating potential traffic, particularly during peak hours or tourist seasons.

Drive times vary significantly depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and the driver's speed. A trip to Plymouth via NH-25 can take approximately 25-40 minutes, while the same trip via I-93 might take 20-35 minutes. The journey to Woodsville, primarily using I-93, could range from 30-45 minutes. These times are estimates and can be considerably longer during winter months, when snow and ice are common.

The “Hypertension Score” for drive times is a 3. While the distances are not extreme, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential weather-related delays, creates a moderate level of challenge for regular healthcare appointments. Individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive face greater hurdles.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public **transportation** options in Wentworth are extremely limited. The region lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There are no local bus routes serving the town. The closest public transit options are available in Plymouth, with limited services connecting to other towns. These services are often infrequent and may not align with healthcare appointment schedules.

The absence of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the “Hypertension Score,” lowering it to a 1.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence is often sporadic, especially in rural areas like Wentworth. Availability can be unpredictable, and wait times can be lengthy. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. These services, such as Med-Ride and local ambulance services, provide a more reliable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services improves the “Hypertension Score” slightly, raising it to a 2. However, the limited availability, potential cost, and need for advance planning remain significant drawbacks.

**ADA Accessibility**

It is important to note that the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles and services varies. Individuals requiring wheelchair-accessible transportation should confirm the availability of these services when booking. Public transit options in Plymouth, when available, may offer ADA-compliant features, but this is not guaranteed.

**The Impact of Weather**

New Hampshire winters pose a significant challenge to **transportation**. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, increasing travel times and potentially causing appointment cancellations. This weather factor further complicates **healthcare access** for residents of Wentworth.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare with Hypertension in Wentworth**

The “Hypertension Score” for **healthcare access** in Wentworth, NH (ZIP code 03282) is a 2. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the challenges posed by weather conditions create significant hurdles for individuals managing hypertension. While ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer some relief, their availability and cost remain concerns.

For anyone considering **moving to Wentworth**, particularly those with hypertension or other chronic conditions, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare access is crucial. Planning for regular appointments, considering potential delays, and exploring all available options are essential for maintaining optimal health. Residents should proactively identify and utilize the most reliable and convenient **transportation** methods to ensure consistent **healthcare access**. This careful planning is vital for successful self-management of hypertension and a fulfilling life in this beautiful but geographically challenging region.