03574, Bethlehem, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03574, Bethlehem, New Hampshire is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.85 percent of residents in 03574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Littleton Regional Healthcare with a distance of 7.33 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bethlehem, NH (ZIP Code 03574)

The crisp mountain air and charming New England aesthetic of Bethlehem, New Hampshire, beckon those seeking respite and a slower pace of life. However, the allure of this idyllic community must be balanced with a realistic understanding of healthcare access, particularly for residents managing conditions like hypertension. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 03574, evaluating its impact on healthcare access and providing a "Hypertension Score" to help prospective residents assess their ability to manage their health.

Our analysis considers the critical role of transportation in accessing essential medical care. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and reliably is paramount for individuals with hypertension, who require regular check-ups, medication refills, and immediate attention in emergencies. This is especially true in a rural setting where distances and transportation options are often limited.

The "Hypertension Score" is a subjective assessment based on the following factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, availability of public transportation, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. It reflects the relative ease or difficulty a resident might face in accessing healthcare, specifically for managing hypertension.

**Drive Times: The Arterial Routes to Care**

Bethlehem, nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the town itself is relatively small, the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in neighboring towns, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US Route 302 and Interstate 93.

US Route 302, the main thoroughfare, provides access to Littleton, approximately 15 miles east. Littleton Hospital, a critical access hospital, offers a range of services, including primary care, cardiology, and emergency care. The drive on Route 302 is generally straightforward, but can be subject to delays during peak tourist seasons or inclement weather, particularly during winter months. The drive time to Littleton Hospital typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Further afield, Interstate 93 offers a faster route to larger medical centers in the south. Driving south on I-93, residents can reach the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a major tertiary care facility, in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. This drive, while longer, provides access to specialized services not readily available in smaller hospitals.

The drive to the north, on I-93, offers access to the Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital in Colebrook, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away. This is a rural hospital with a full range of services.

The accessibility of healthcare via personal vehicle is a significant advantage for residents of Bethlehem. However, the reliance on driving also presents potential challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive due to health reasons.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Bethlehem are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not drive.

The Coös County Transit, a regional public transportation service, may offer limited routes and schedules. However, service frequency and availability can be restricted, particularly on weekends and evenings. Passengers should contact Coös County Transit directly to inquire about routes and schedules to healthcare facilities.

The absence of readily available public transportation underscores the importance of alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas of New Hampshire, including larger towns and cities. However, their availability in Bethlehem is uncertain. The presence of ride-sharing services may vary depending on driver availability and demand.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients arrive safely and on time. The availability of medical transport services in Bethlehem should be confirmed with local providers.

**Hypertension Score: A Practical Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 03574 is moderately challenging. The score reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** Access to Littleton Hospital via US Route 302 is relatively convenient, with drive times of 20-30 minutes. Access to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital requires longer drives, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and 1 hour and 15 minutes respectively.
* **Public Transportation:** The limited availability of public transportation presents a significant barrier for those who do not drive.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability of ride-sharing services is uncertain.
* **Medical Transport:** The presence of medical transport services should be confirmed with local providers.

**Recommendations for Residents Managing Hypertension:**

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Seek a primary care physician in Littleton or a neighboring town to facilitate regular check-ups and medication management.
* **Explore Medical Transport:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services for appointments and emergencies.
* **Develop a Backup Plan:** Have a plan in place for transportation in case of emergencies or when personal vehicles are unavailable.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When moving to Bethlehem, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of transportation options.
* **Communicate with Healthcare Providers:** Discuss transportation challenges with healthcare providers and explore potential solutions.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape of Healthcare Access**

Bethlehem offers a serene and appealing lifestyle, but prospective residents must be mindful of the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. While drive times to local hospitals are manageable, the limited public transportation and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning, especially for individuals managing hypertension. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents can successfully navigate the challenges and enjoy the benefits of living in this charming New England community. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a tool to assess the relative ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The key to thriving in Bethlehem, for those managing hypertension, is a proactive approach to transportation and a strong partnership with their healthcare providers.