03847, Kearsarge, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03847, Kearsarge, New Hampshire is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.50 percent of residents in 03847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital, The with a distance of 1.24 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 03847

The picturesque landscapes of ZIP Code 03847, encompassing the charming town of Kearsarge, New Hampshire, offer a serene escape. However, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: ensuring accessible healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" for this area, evaluating the ease of transportation to medical facilities and its impact on healthcare access, especially for those considering moving to Kearsarge.

The Hypertension Score considers several critical factors. These include the availability and efficiency of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management, and the accessibility of these facilities for individuals with mobility limitations. We will delve into drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within 03847.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this system is crucial for timely healthcare access. From Kearsarge, the primary routes to larger medical centers involve navigating a network of highways and local roads.

The most direct route to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, involves utilizing **New Hampshire Route 107** south, connecting to **US Route 4** east. This journey typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, residents can access Concord Hospital, a significant regional hospital, by traveling west on **New Hampshire Route 107**, then merging onto **Interstate 93** north. This drive usually takes about an hour and fifteen minutes, again contingent on traffic flow, especially during peak commuting hours.

For those seeking specialized care, such as cardiology appointments or specific diagnostic services, the drive times to these facilities are essential. The time spent in transit can directly impact the ability to manage hypertension effectively. Regular monitoring, medication refills, and specialist consultations are critical components of hypertension management.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Gaps in Healthcare Access**

Public transportation options in 03847 are limited. This significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities. The primary public transit provider in the region is COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation).

COAST offers several bus routes, but their coverage in 03847 is minimal. Route 3, connecting Dover and Rochester, does not directly serve Kearsarge. Route 1, primarily serving the coastal region, is also not a viable option for healthcare access in this area.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant buses are available on COAST routes, offering wheelchair accessibility and other features to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited route coverage restricts the utility of public transit for healthcare access in Kearsarge. This lack of reliable public transportation is a significant barrier for individuals managing hypertension, as it can hinder their ability to attend regular appointments and obtain necessary medications.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Transportation Void**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential solution for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer another option. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including Care Ride and First Transit. These services can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they provide a crucial service for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score: A Multifaceted Approach**

The Hypertension Score for 03847 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The score would consider the following:

* **Drive Times:** The average time required to reach primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and hospitals. Longer drive times negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence and frequency of public transit routes serving Kearsarge and their accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Limited public transit reduces the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The reliability, cost, and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Limited availability or high costs negatively impact the score.
* **Proximity of Healthcare Providers:** The density of healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management within the area. A higher density improves the score.
* **Accessibility of Healthcare Facilities:** The physical accessibility of medical facilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible parking. Facilities with poor accessibility reduce the score.

**Moving to Kearsarge: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

Individuals considering moving to Kearsarge and managing hypertension should carefully assess the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning for healthcare appointments and medication refills. The limited public transit options require alternative transportation strategies.

Prospective residents should research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. They should also identify healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management and assess the accessibility of their facilities.

For those with mobility limitations, the availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is crucial. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for ensuring effective hypertension management in 03847.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Healthcare Access**

The Hypertension Score for 03847 reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limited transportation options present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. By understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, residents and prospective newcomers can navigate the path to accessible healthcare and ensure effective hypertension management. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and fosters a proactive approach to maintaining their well-being in the charming community of Kearsarge.