03867, Rochester, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03867, Rochester, New Hampshire is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.03 percent of residents in 03867 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frisbie Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.14 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rochester, NH (ZIP Code 03867)

Rochester, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03867), a city nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Granite State, presents a unique landscape for those seeking healthcare. Understanding the ease of access, especially for individuals managing conditions like hypertension, is paramount. This write-up explores the transportation options available, evaluating their impact on healthcare access and formulating a "Hypertension Score" to reflect the challenges and opportunities residents face. Considering the complexities of transportation, this score will provide insight for those considering moving to Rochester.

The cornerstone of assessing healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably. For residents of Rochester, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Several major roadways serve the city, influencing drive times to crucial healthcare providers. Route 16, a vital north-south artery, provides quick access to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Route 125, another significant thoroughfare, connects Rochester to surrounding towns and cities, offering alternative routes to specialists and clinics.

Navigating these roads, however, isn't always straightforward. Rush hour traffic, particularly on Route 16, can significantly extend travel times, creating a stressful situation for individuals with hypertension. Weather conditions, especially during New England's harsh winters, can further complicate commutes, increasing the risk of delays and potential health complications. The availability of reliable transportation is therefore a crucial factor in determining the Hypertension Score.

Public transportation in Rochester is limited but offers a vital lifeline for those without personal vehicles. COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) operates several bus routes within the city and to neighboring communities. Route 1 serves as a primary route, connecting Rochester to Dover and other towns. The frequency of these routes, however, may not always align with the urgent needs of healthcare appointments. Furthermore, while COAST buses are ADA accessible, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities, the overall network's coverage and frequency remain a challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Rochester, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. However, their availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for some residents, impacting their ability to access healthcare regularly. These factors directly influence the Hypertension Score, as they impact the reliability and affordability of transportation options.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. While several medical transport providers operate in the region, including those that cater to non-emergency medical needs, their availability and cost can vary. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. However, the need for advance booking and potential insurance coverage limitations can pose challenges.

The location of healthcare providers within Rochester also plays a crucial role in healthcare access. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, while located outside the city limits, is a primary destination for many residents, requiring a drive. Several clinics and specialist offices are located within Rochester, reducing travel times for some patients. The distribution of these facilities, however, may not always align with the needs of all residents, particularly those living in more remote areas.

Considering all these factors, we can now formulate a Hypertension Score for Rochester (03867). This score will reflect the ease with which residents with hypertension can access healthcare, taking into account drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

**Hypertension Score Methodology:**

The score will be based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing extremely difficult access and 10 representing excellent access.

* **Drive Time to Primary Care/Specialist (Weight: 30%):** This considers the average drive time to the nearest primary care physician and specialist, factoring in traffic and weather conditions.
* **Public Transportation Availability (Weight: 25%):** This evaluates the frequency, coverage, and ADA accessibility of public transportation routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability & Cost (Weight: 20%):** This assesses the availability of ride-sharing services and their affordability.
* **Medical Transport Services (Weight: 15%):** This evaluates the availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Proximity of Healthcare Facilities (Weight: 10%):** This considers the distribution of healthcare facilities within Rochester.

**Hypertension Score for Rochester (03867): 6.5/10**

**Rationale:**

Rochester scores relatively well due to its proximity to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital and the availability of major roadways like Route 16 and Route 125. The presence of COAST bus routes and ride-sharing services provides additional transportation options. However, the score is tempered by the limitations of public transportation, the potential for traffic delays, and the fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing services. The limited availability of medical transport services and the need for advance booking also impact the score.

**Recommendations:**

* **Improve Public Transportation:** Increase the frequency and coverage of COAST bus routes, particularly during peak hours and to underserved areas.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Partner with ride-sharing services to offer discounted fares or subsidized transportation for healthcare appointments.
* **Expand Medical Transport Services:** Increase the availability and affordability of medical transport services, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Enhance Road Infrastructure:** Invest in road improvements to reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic flow, especially on Route 16.
* **Healthcare Access Awareness:** Promote awareness of available transportation options and resources for residents with hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Rochester, understanding this Hypertension Score is crucial. While the city offers reasonable healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation should be carefully considered. Prospective residents, especially those with hypertension or other chronic conditions, should assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. The availability of healthcare and the ease of transportation are intertwined, directly impacting the quality of life. Investing in transportation improvements and promoting healthcare access will further enhance Rochester's appeal as a desirable place to live.