03216, Andover, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03216, Andover, New Hampshire is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.18 percent of residents in 03216 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Concord Hospital- Franklin with a distance of 7.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03216 (Andover, NH)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Andover, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03216) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, intricately intertwined with the available transportation options. This analysis considers the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach necessary medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a clear picture for current residents and those considering moving to Andover, highlighting the practical realities of accessing healthcare.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Andover is personal vehicles. This underscores the importance of understanding drive times to various healthcare facilities. The town is relatively rural, and the availability of immediate healthcare services within the ZIP code is limited. Residents often need to travel to neighboring towns and cities for specialized care.

Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as the Dartmouth Health – New London Hospital, requires navigating the roads of New Hampshire. From central Andover, the journey typically involves taking Route 11, a major east-west thoroughfare. The drive is generally straightforward, with the distance being approximately 10-15 miles, translating to a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Alternatively, for more comprehensive care, residents might need to travel to Dartmouth Health – Concord Hospital, located in Concord. This journey involves traveling on Route 11 to Interstate 89 South. The drive is significantly longer, spanning approximately 40 miles, and the commute can take between 45 minutes to an hour, again depending on traffic.

Another option is the Concord Hospital – Franklin. This hospital is located in Franklin, NH, approximately 15 miles from Andover. The drive typically involves taking Route 11 or Route 3. The drive time is usually around 20-30 minutes.

Public transportation options are limited in Andover and the surrounding areas. The availability of buses is minimal, making it challenging for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who are unable to drive, especially the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While specific public transit routes servicing Andover are scarce, it is crucial to investigate any potential routes that might offer some degree of healthcare access. It is vital to confirm the frequency of service, the areas covered, and whether the buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps or lifts, to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are present in the region, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability and affordability in a rural area like Andover can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services can provide transportation to and from medical appointments, offering a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, offering various levels of service.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Andover, NH, is influenced by the limitations in transportation options. While drive times to nearby hospitals are reasonable, the lack of public transit and the potential unreliability and expense of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services is a positive factor, but the overall dependence on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those without access to them.

The impact of these transportation limitations on healthcare access is significant. Individuals without reliable transportation may delay or forgo necessary medical care, leading to poorer health outcomes. The lack of readily available transportation can also contribute to social isolation and limit access to other essential services.

For those considering moving to Andover, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The decision to relocate should factor in the availability of reliable transportation and the potential impact on healthcare access. It is essential to assess personal transportation needs and consider the potential costs and limitations of the available options.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Andover, NH, is moderate. While drive times to nearby hospitals are reasonable, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability and expense of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services is a positive factor, but the overall dependence on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those without access to them. This score emphasizes the need for residents to carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential impact on their ability to access necessary medical care.