03878, Somersworth, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03878, Somersworth, New Hampshire is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.56 percent of residents in 03878 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wentworth-Douglass Hospital with a distance of 2.80 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03878 (Somersworth, NH)**

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access vital healthcare services. In Somersworth, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03878), understanding the ease of reaching medical facilities is crucial, especially when considering factors like hypertension, a prevalent condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, evaluating how readily residents can access healthcare, offering a "Hypertension Score" based on available options.

The "Hypertension Score" will consider the time it takes to reach essential healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists (cardiologists, endocrinologists, nephrologists), pharmacies, and urgent care facilities. The score will reflect the availability and efficiency of various transportation methods, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals managing hypertension, as timely access to care is paramount for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications.

**Driving: The Primary Route**

For many residents of Somersworth, driving remains the most common mode of transportation. The primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating the well-traveled roads. The Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16) is a major artery, providing quick access to Dover and Portsmouth, where several hospitals and specialist practices are located. Traveling south on Route 16 allows for a relatively swift commute to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, typically taking around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 16 provides access to healthcare facilities in Rochester. While the drive might be slightly longer, around 15-20 minutes, it still offers a viable option. Local roads like High Street and Main Street in Somersworth connect to these major routes, providing direct access to healthcare providers within the city and the surrounding areas. However, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of considering the accessibility challenges faced by those who do not drive, or those who are unable to drive due to health or financial limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Somersworth are limited but still present a crucial component of the healthcare access puzzle. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus services within the region. While the network may not offer direct routes to all healthcare facilities, it does connect Somersworth to Dover and Rochester, where a wider range of medical services are available.

Specific routes to consider include COAST Route 1, which runs between Dover and Rochester, and Route 3, which travels between Portsmouth and Rochester. These routes could be useful for accessing hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The frequency of these routes and the overall travel time, however, can be a significant factor. Individuals with hypertension may find longer travel times and multiple transfers challenging. The COAST system includes ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses, which is vital for those with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Somersworth and offer an alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly useful for those who cannot drive or who need immediate transportation to a medical appointment. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are also available. These services, such as First Transit or American Medical Response, provide non-emergency medical transportation for individuals who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. While these services can be valuable, they often require advance booking and may not be available for urgent situations.

**Pharmacies and Urgent Care: Local Options**

Within Somersworth, residents have access to local pharmacies, such as Rite Aid and Walgreens, which are crucial for filling prescriptions and accessing over-the-counter medications. These pharmacies are generally easily accessible by car or, for those living in more central areas, by walking. An urgent care facility is also available in Somersworth, providing immediate care for non-life-threatening medical conditions. This local option significantly improves healthcare access for residents needing prompt medical attention.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Somersworth**

For individuals considering moving to Somersworth, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services should be a significant factor. The town's proximity to larger cities like Dover and Portsmouth, with their comprehensive healthcare facilities, is a positive aspect. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options highlight the need for careful consideration, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in Somersworth (ZIP code 03878), a preliminary "Hypertension Score" can be assigned. This score is a subjective assessment, reflecting the overall ease of accessing healthcare services for individuals managing hypertension.

* **Driving:** High accessibility, with relatively short drive times to essential healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit:** Moderate accessibility, with limited routes and potential for longer travel times.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate accessibility, with potential cost and availability limitations.
* **Medical Transportation:** Moderate accessibility, with advance booking requirements.
* **Local Options:** Good access to pharmacies and urgent care facilities within Somersworth.

**Overall Score:** A moderate to good score, reflecting the availability of multiple transportation options, but with limitations in public transit and potential cost barriers for ride-sharing and medical transportation. The score is particularly influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles.

**Conclusion**

Access to healthcare in Somersworth, NH, presents a mixed picture. While driving offers the most convenient option, limited public transit and potential cost barriers for ride-sharing and medical transportation highlight the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, understanding these transportation factors is crucial for ensuring timely access to care and maintaining their health. As the community grows, addressing these challenges will be essential to promote the well-being of all residents.