03221, Bradford, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03221, Bradford, New Hampshire is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.64 percent of residents in 03221 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New London Hospital with a distance of 24.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bradford, NH (ZIP Code 03221)

The quaint town of Bradford, New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of the Granite State, offers a serene lifestyle. However, prospective residents must consider the realities of **healthcare access** when contemplating a move. This report provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to **transportation** to medical facilities for individuals residing within the 03221 ZIP code. This analysis will illuminate the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape, providing a comprehensive understanding for those considering **moving to Bradford**.

The “Overall Health Score” is a composite metric, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. It aims to provide a realistic picture of the accessibility of healthcare, recognizing that timely access to medical care is a critical determinant of overall well-being. This assessment doesn't provide a numerical score, but rather a descriptive analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare accessibility in Bradford.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Primary Transportation Mode**

For residents of Bradford, personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare. The town's location, while picturesque, presents geographical challenges. The primary arteries connecting Bradford to medical facilities are New Hampshire Route 114, Route 103, and Interstate 89 (I-89).

Traveling to Concord Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey primarily utilizes Route 114, leading to I-89 South, then exiting at the appropriate Concord exit. This route, while generally efficient, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours.

For residents needing specialized care, the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, is a significant option. This drive, however, demands a commitment of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, predominantly utilizing I-89 North. This longer travel time underscores the importance of planning and preparedness for medical appointments.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities, located in towns like Contoocook and Henniker, offer more immediate options. The drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, primarily utilizing Route 103 and local roads. These facilities provide a crucial buffer for less urgent medical needs.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and safety. Snow and ice can create hazardous driving conditions, necessitating extra caution and potentially delaying travel. This factor is a critical consideration for residents, especially those with mobility issues or those reliant on others for **transportation**.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public **transportation** options in Bradford are extremely limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system significantly impacts **healthcare access**, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The Concord Area Transit (CAT) system provides some service to nearby towns, but its routes and schedules are not designed to directly serve Bradford or offer frequent connections to medical facilities. The availability of CAT services to Bradford is minimal, often requiring significant travel time and multiple transfers.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of public transit are a crucial consideration. While CAT vehicles are equipped with accessibility features, the limited frequency and route coverage in the Bradford area restrict access for individuals with disabilities. This deficiency poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for a vulnerable segment of the population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: A Patchwork of Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bradford area, offering an alternative **transportation** option. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized assistance for individuals requiring non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medication management. While these services can be invaluable, they come with associated costs, which may not be covered by insurance.

Local ambulance services are available for emergency medical needs. However, for routine appointments, the reliance on emergency services is not ideal.

**The Healthcare Landscape: Facilities and Services**

Bradford itself has limited healthcare facilities. Residents rely on surrounding towns and cities for comprehensive medical care. This reliance underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** options.

The closest primary care physicians and specialists are often located in the towns of Contoocook, Henniker, and Warner. These facilities offer a range of services, including general practice, pediatrics, and some specialized care.

For more complex medical needs, residents often travel to Concord Hospital or Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. These facilities offer a wide range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgery.

The availability of telehealth services is another factor influencing **healthcare access**. Telehealth appointments can reduce the need for travel, especially for routine follow-up appointments or consultations. However, telehealth access requires reliable internet connectivity, which may be a challenge in some areas of Bradford.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Bradford, NH (03221) is characterized by both strengths and weaknesses. The primary strength lies in the relatively short drive times to some local clinics and urgent care facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges.

The long drive times to major medical centers like Concord Hospital and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, coupled with the potential for adverse weather conditions, can be a significant burden. The lack of accessible public transit exacerbates these challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle.

For individuals **moving to Bradford**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. Careful planning and consideration of alternative **transportation** options, such as medical **transportation** services, are crucial. The overall health score for Bradford highlights the need for proactive planning and a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this beautiful, but geographically isolated, New Hampshire town.