The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03598, Whitefield, New Hampshire is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
70.04 percent of residents in 03598 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Weeks Medical Center with a distance of 8.62 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 03598, Whitefield, New Hampshire
Hypertension Score | 54 |
---|---|
People Score | 28 |
Provider Score | 92 |
Hospital Score | 23 |
Travel Score | 55 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 03598 | Whitefield | New Hampshire |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.54 | 1.54 | 1.54 |
1 Car | 20.17 | 20.17 | 15.54 |
2 Cars | 32.65 | 32.65 | 44.29 |
3 or More Cars | 45.64 | 45.64 | 38.64 |
Vehicular Access in 03598, Whitefield, New Hampshire
**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03598**
Whitefield, New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, offers a serene lifestyle, but its rural setting presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, explores the complexities of commuting to medical facilities from ZIP code 03598, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely access to care, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Whitefield, ensuring they understand the realities of healthcare accessibility.
The "Hypertension Score" considers the ease and speed of reaching essential medical services. Delays in reaching care, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, can significantly impact health outcomes. This analysis delves into the various transportation options available, evaluating their efficiency, reliability, and accessibility for residents of Whitefield.
**Roadways and Drive Times**
The primary means of transportation in and out of Whitefield is by car. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the scenic but winding roads of the White Mountains. The primary artery is **US Route 3**, which winds north and south, connecting Whitefield to neighboring towns and cities. To the south, **US Route 3** leads to Littleton, approximately a 20-minute drive, offering access to Littleton Regional Healthcare.
Heading north on **US Route 3** provides access to Lancaster, about a 25-minute drive, where residents can find services at Weeks Medical Center. These drive times are estimates under ideal conditions, considering traffic and weather. During the winter months, snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks, impacting healthcare access.
Secondary roads, such as **NH Route 116**, offer alternative routes, but they often involve more winding roads and potential for slower travel. These roads can be particularly challenging during inclement weather. The condition of these roads and the availability of reliable vehicles are critical factors in ensuring healthcare access for Whitefield residents.
**Public Transportation: Limited Options**
Public transportation options in Whitefield and the surrounding area are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or prefer not to drive.
There is no local bus service directly serving Whitefield. The nearest public transportation options are in neighboring towns, requiring residents to arrange their own transportation to reach these services. This often involves relying on friends, family, or other informal arrangements, which may not always be reliable or readily available.
ADA accessibility is a critical consideration in any public transportation system. Unfortunately, the absence of a local bus system means that individuals with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The lack of accessible transportation options can exacerbate health disparities and limit the ability of individuals with mobility impairments to receive timely medical care.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in Whitefield is inconsistent. Availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially costly, impacting the "Hypertension Score."
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide these services in the region, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs, which can be a barrier for some individuals.
**Medical Transportation Brands**
While specific medical transportation brands operating directly in Whitefield may vary, a search for "medical transportation Whitefield NH" will reveal local providers. These companies often cater to individuals with mobility limitations, those who cannot drive, or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transport. It is important to research the specific services offered by these providers, including their coverage area, pricing, and accessibility features.
**Impact on the "Hypertension Score"**
The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 03598 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The potential for increased travel times due to weather conditions further compounds the challenges.
For individuals managing hypertension, timely access to medical care is crucial. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and prompt attention to any health concerns are essential for managing the condition and preventing complications. The transportation limitations in Whitefield can create barriers to accessing these essential services, potentially leading to delays in care and impacting health outcomes.
**Recommendations and Considerations**
Individuals considering moving to Whitefield, especially those with pre-existing health conditions like hypertension, should carefully assess the transportation options available and their ability to access healthcare services. Researching local medical providers, understanding the drive times to medical facilities, and exploring medical transportation options are crucial steps.
Individuals without access to a personal vehicle should prioritize securing reliable transportation arrangements. This might involve relying on family or friends, exploring medical transportation services, or considering the potential for relocation to an area with better healthcare access.
Advocating for improved public transportation options in the region is also essential. Increased investment in public transit could significantly improve healthcare access for all residents, particularly those with limited mobility or financial resources.
**Conclusion**
The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 03598 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While Whitefield offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options present significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension and other health conditions. Careful planning, proactive research, and a willingness to adapt are essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare in this beautiful but geographically isolated community. Understanding these transportation realities is crucial for anyone considering moving to Whitefield and ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being.
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