03838, Glen, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03838, Glen, New Hampshire is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.37 percent of residents in 03838 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital, The with a distance of 4.65 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 03838

This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 03838, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services crucial for managing hypertension. This score considers various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those living and *moving to Glen*, New Hampshire. The goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the understanding that effective hypertension management requires regular check-ups, medication adherence, and access to specialized care when needed. Transportation barriers can significantly impede these essential elements, leading to poorer health outcomes. This score aims to quantify these barriers, providing a practical tool for residents and those considering *moving to Glen*, to understand the realities of accessing healthcare.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in 03838 is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfares influencing healthcare access are Route 16, the primary north-south artery, and Route 302, offering east-west connectivity. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily dependent on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location of the destination.

For instance, driving to Memorial Hospital in North Conway, a key regional healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 16, assuming moderate traffic. The journey to primary care physicians within Glen itself, often located near the attractions, might be a short 5-10-minute drive. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate travel to larger facilities in Conway or even further afield, potentially increasing drive times to 30-45 minutes or more.

Navigating these roads, especially during peak tourist seasons or winter weather, can be challenging. Road closures due to snow or accidents are not uncommon, significantly impacting healthcare access. Therefore, the "Hypertension Score" considers these potential delays, factoring in the variability of travel times based on seasonal conditions.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 03838 are limited. The Conway Village Transportation System (CVTS) provides some local bus service, but its routes and schedules are primarily geared toward serving the needs of the local community, including the nearby towns. The service is limited, especially outside of business hours and on weekends, potentially presenting a significant barrier for individuals requiring timely healthcare access.

The CVTS buses are generally ADA-accessible, featuring ramps and other accommodations for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and the limited geographical coverage can make it difficult for individuals with hypertension to reach their appointments, especially if they live in more remote areas or require frequent check-ups. The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the limitations of public transit, assigning a lower weighting to this option compared to other modes of transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, their availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are also available. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from appointments. However, they can be expensive, and their availability may be limited depending on the specific insurance coverage and the nature of the medical needs. The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability and cost-effectiveness of these services, recognizing their importance for individuals with mobility limitations or other health challenges.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score":**

The "Hypertension Score" is a composite metric that weighs various factors to assess the overall accessibility of healthcare services for individuals with hypertension in 03838. The score incorporates the following elements:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, factoring in traffic and seasonal conditions.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, coverage, and ADA accessibility of local bus services.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance to pharmacies offering prescription refills and other essential services.
* **Healthcare Facility Density:** The number and types of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance.

The score is calculated on a scale, with higher scores indicating better healthcare access. This score provides a snapshot of the transportation challenges and opportunities that residents face. It is not a static measure but rather a dynamic assessment that can change based on infrastructure improvements, service expansions, and changes in the healthcare landscape.

**Implications for Residents and Those Moving to Glen:**

For current residents of 03838, the "Hypertension Score" can help identify potential transportation barriers and inform decisions about healthcare choices. It can guide individuals in selecting primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies that are easily accessible. It also highlights the importance of planning and preparation, especially during inclement weather or peak tourist seasons.

For individuals *moving to Glen*, the "Hypertension Score" provides valuable information about the healthcare infrastructure and transportation options available. It can help prospective residents assess whether the area meets their healthcare needs, especially if they have chronic conditions like hypertension. It also underscores the importance of researching healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and transportation alternatives before making a move.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations:**

Improving healthcare access in 03838 requires a multi-faceted approach. The following recommendations could enhance the "Hypertension Score" and improve the lives of residents:

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Expanding the CVTS service, increasing frequency, and extending routes to cover more areas.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Partnering with ride-sharing companies and medical transport providers to offer discounted services or subsidized transportation options.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintaining and improving roads, especially Route 16 and Route 302, to minimize traffic congestion and ensure safe travel.
* **Increase Healthcare Facility Density:** Attracting more healthcare providers, including specialists, to the area.
* **Promote Telehealth:** Encouraging the use of telehealth services to provide remote consultations and monitoring for individuals with hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" is a living document. It will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and transportation options. By continuously monitoring and evaluating healthcare access, we can work towards creating a healthier community for all residents of 03838, especially those *moving to Glen*. This ongoing assessment ensures that individuals with hypertension and other chronic conditions can receive the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.