03883, South Tamworth, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 03883, South Tamworth, New Hampshire is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.36 percent of residents in 03883 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Huggins Hospital with a distance of 17.97 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in South Tamworth (03883)

The quaint, rural charm of South Tamworth, New Hampshire, nestled within the 03883 ZIP code, offers a peaceful existence, yet presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to swiftly and reliably reach medical appointments is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, assigning a "Hypertension Score" to evaluate the ease with which residents can commute to healthcare facilities, especially given the critical need for consistent medical attention. The score will consider drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to South Tamworth and managing their health.

The core of the transportation network in this region revolves around the automobile. The primary arteries facilitating healthcare access are Route 113, a vital east-west connector, and Route 16, a north-south thoroughfare. These roads, while scenic, can be subject to seasonal variations, particularly during winter months, impacting travel times and potentially delaying crucial medical appointments. The drive to the closest major healthcare facilities, such as Memorial Hospital in North Conway, typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive involves navigating Route 16 south, a relatively straightforward route, but one that can be congested during peak tourist seasons.

For residents seeking care in the Lakes Region, a drive to the Lakes Region General Hospital in Laconia, NH, is another option. This journey requires navigating Route 113 east to Route 25, adding roughly an hour to the commute. This longer travel time underscores the importance of proactive planning and considering the impact of weather conditions, which can significantly extend travel durations. The Hypertension Score must reflect the potential for these delays, acknowledging that consistent access to healthcare is crucial for managing the condition.

Public transportation options are limited in the South Tamworth area, which presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The local bus services, though present, may not be directly accessible to all healthcare facilities. The availability of ADA-compliant features on these buses is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is critical for the Hypertension Score calculation. This evaluation requires a thorough assessment of the frequency of service, the proximity of bus stops to medical facilities, and the overall reliability of the public transit system.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the region, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The reliability of these services, along with their cost-effectiveness, must be carefully considered. Individuals with hypertension often require frequent medical appointments, making the dependability of ride-sharing a significant factor. The Hypertension Score will factor in the potential for delays and the financial burden associated with relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare visits.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer another avenue for healthcare access. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The availability of medical transport providers in the 03883 ZIP code, along with their pricing and insurance coverage, is a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. The presence of these services can significantly improve healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.

The Hypertension Score will also consider the availability of telehealth services, which can mitigate the need for in-person appointments. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the burden of travel. The availability of telehealth services, along with the technological infrastructure needed to support them, will be incorporated into the score. This factor acknowledges the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery and the potential for telehealth to improve healthcare access in rural areas.

The overall Hypertension Score for South Tamworth (03883) will be a composite of these factors. It will reflect the challenges and opportunities faced by residents in accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The score will consider the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It will also factor in the availability of telehealth services and the impact of seasonal variations on transportation.

For individuals considering moving to South Tamworth, the Hypertension Score provides a valuable tool for assessing the practicality of managing their health in this environment. It highlights the importance of careful planning, proactive transportation strategies, and a clear understanding of the available resources. The score will also serve as a call to action for local healthcare providers and community organizations to improve healthcare access and support the health and well-being of all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Ultimately, the Hypertension Score aims to provide a nuanced and comprehensive assessment of healthcare access in South Tamworth, acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities presented by its rural setting. It underscores the critical importance of reliable transportation and the need for proactive strategies to ensure that all residents can receive the timely and consistent medical attention they need. The score will evolve as the transportation landscape and healthcare services change, ensuring that it remains a relevant and valuable resource for residents and those considering making South Tamworth their home.