03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.50 percent of residents in 03869 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wentworth-Douglass Hospital with a distance of 1.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rollinsford, NH (ZIP Code 03869)

Rollinsford, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03869), a charming town nestled along the Salmon Falls River, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to larger urban centers. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of **transportation** to vital **healthcare access** points becomes a critical factor. This analysis explores the challenges and opportunities in Rollinsford, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment to guide residents and those **moving to Rollinsford** in understanding the landscape of healthcare access.

The Hypertension Score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting the complexities faced by individuals with hypertension in accessing timely and consistent medical care. The score is not a definitive metric but a guide to understanding the multifaceted nature of healthcare access in this specific geographic area.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for most Rollinsford residents is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount. The most direct route to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a major healthcare provider, involves utilizing Route 4 and the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16). During peak hours, this journey can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic congestion.

Traveling south towards Dover, residents can access Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, another significant healthcare provider. This route primarily utilizes Route 4, and the drive time is typically around 15-20 minutes, again subject to traffic variations. Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the region, with drive times varying from a few minutes to upwards of 15 minutes, depending on the location.

The availability of a personal vehicle is crucial. The reliability of these routes is generally good, though winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety. Regular monitoring of traffic conditions, especially during peak hours and inclement weather, is essential for individuals with hypertension who require prompt medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in Rollinsford are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service in the region, but routes and schedules may not always align with healthcare appointment times.

Specific COAST routes serving Rollinsford include Route 9, which offers limited service to Dover and surrounding areas. These buses may not have frequent stops near medical facilities. Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial consideration. COAST buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating.

However, the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times between buses can make public transit a less-than-ideal option for individuals with hypertension, particularly during emergencies or for routine appointments requiring strict time adherence. Careful planning and consideration of travel times are vital when relying on public transit for healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative **transportation** option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to public transit. Availability in Rollinsford is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

Ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, allowing for on-demand **transportation** to medical appointments. However, it is essential to factor in potential wait times for a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability.

Specialized medical **transportation** services, such as those provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other private ambulance providers, offer non-emergency medical **transportation** for individuals who require assistance. These services are often equipped to transport patients with specific medical needs, including those with mobility limitations or those requiring medical monitoring during **transportation**.

These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. Understanding the availability and cost of these services is crucial for individuals with hypertension who may require assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Calculating a precise "Hypertension Score" is complex, as it involves subjective factors and individual circumstances. However, we can consider the following elements:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** The relatively short drive times to major healthcare facilities in Portsmouth and Dover provide a positive aspect. However, reliance on personal vehicles introduces potential challenges related to traffic and weather.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The limited public transit options, with infrequent routes and potential for long wait times, represent a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical **transportation** provides additional options, but cost and availability can be limiting factors.
* **Geographic Considerations:** Rollinsford's location, while offering proximity to healthcare facilities, also presents challenges related to rural access and potential for isolation, especially for individuals with limited mobility or without access to **transportation**.

**Recommendations for Residents and Those Moving to Rollinsford**

For individuals with hypertension residing in or considering **moving to Rollinsford**, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate the availability and reliability of personal **transportation**. Consider the potential impact of traffic, weather, and vehicle maintenance on healthcare access.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Investigate the COAST bus routes and schedules, considering their feasibility for routine appointments. Plan for potential delays and longer travel times.
* **Research Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Familiarize yourself with the availability, cost, and booking procedures for ride-sharing services and specialized medical **transportation** providers.
* **Establish a Healthcare Network:** Build a strong relationship with healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, located within a reasonable distance.
* **Consider Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a plan for accessing emergency medical services, including knowing the location of the nearest hospitals and emergency rooms and having a readily available **transportation** plan.
* **Advocate for Improved Healthcare Access:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public **transportation** and expanding healthcare services in the region.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Rollinsford, NH, presents a mixed bag regarding healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is a positive aspect, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles introduce potential challenges. By carefully assessing individual circumstances, exploring available **transportation** options, and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents can effectively navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure timely access to essential medical care. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a guide, emphasizing the importance of understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this unique community.