03865, Plaistow, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03865, Plaistow, New Hampshire is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.54 percent of residents in 03865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkland Medical Center with a distance of 11.37 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Plaistow, NH (ZIP Code 03865)

Plaistow, New Hampshire, a charming town nestled in Rockingham County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for its residents, particularly concerning healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, or those considering **moving to Plaistow**, understanding the ease of reaching medical care is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 03865, offering a "Hypertension Score" based on factors impacting **healthcare access**. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The "Hypertension Score" aims to provide a practical assessment. It considers the time and effort required to reach essential medical appointments, access pharmacies, and obtain necessary healthcare services. A higher score indicates easier access, while a lower score suggests potential difficulties. This analysis focuses on the primary healthcare needs of individuals with hypertension, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialized care if required.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many Plaistow residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation**. The town's location offers a relatively straightforward commute to healthcare facilities, but the specific routes and traffic conditions must be considered. The primary arteries for travel are Route 125 and Route 102. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting **healthcare access**.

Heading south on Route 125, the drive to Exeter Hospital in Exeter, NH, is a common destination for specialized care. Under normal traffic conditions, the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, this drive time can extend significantly, potentially exceeding 45 minutes. This delay could pose a challenge for individuals with hypertension, who may require timely access to medical attention.

Traveling west on Route 102 provides access to medical facilities in Salem, NH. The drive to Parkland Medical Center in Salem typically takes 15-25 minutes. This route, while shorter in distance, can also experience congestion, particularly near the Salem town center.

Considering the drive times, the "Drive Time Score" for Plaistow is moderately favorable. While access to nearby hospitals is generally good, the potential for increased travel times during peak hours warrants careful consideration. This suggests the importance of planning appointments outside of rush hour to ensure timely **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Plaistow are limited, which significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The availability of public transit is a crucial factor for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive. The absence of robust public transit can create barriers to **healthcare access**, especially for those with mobility limitations.

The Rockingham Area Transportation Authority (RATA) provides some bus service in the region. However, service within Plaistow itself is minimal. The RATA Route 12, which runs between Haverhill, MA, and Salem, NH, passes through Plaistow. This route offers limited service, with infrequent stops and limited hours of operation.

The RATA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make public transit an impractical option for many Plaistow residents, particularly those with hypertension who may require frequent medical appointments.

The "Public Transit Score" for Plaistow is low. The limited service and infrequent routes make public transit a less viable option for accessing healthcare facilities. This underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Plaistow can vary. Ride-sharing availability is typically less reliable in suburban and rural areas compared to urban centers.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The fares to nearby hospitals and clinics can quickly add up, potentially creating a financial burden for individuals managing hypertension.

Medical **transportation** services provide specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other private companies, offer non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

The "Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Score" is moderate. While these services offer potential solutions, their availability, cost, and reliability must be carefully considered. Individuals relying on these options should plan their appointments well in advance and explore different service providers to ensure the best possible access to healthcare.

**Hypertension Score: A Synthesis**

Based on the analysis of drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing/medical **transportation** options, the "Hypertension Score" for Plaistow, NH (ZIP code 03865) is a moderate score. The town's location offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles. However, the limited public transit options and the potential for increased travel times during peak hours pose challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Plaistow**, or those already residing in the area, it is crucial to assess their individual **transportation** needs and preferences. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully consider the challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

**Recommendations**

* **Plan Appointments Strategically:** Schedule medical appointments outside of peak traffic hours to minimize drive times.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers in the area.
* **Consider Proximity to Pharmacies:** Locate pharmacies close to home or along frequently traveled routes to facilitate medication refills.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding public **transportation** options in the region to improve **healthcare access** for all residents.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a starting point for understanding the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access** in Plaistow. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have the resources necessary to manage their hypertension effectively.