03243, Hill, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03243, Hill, New Hampshire is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.12 percent of residents in 03243 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Concord Hospital- Franklin with a distance of 7.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03243 (Hill, NH)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 03243, Hill, New Hampshire, is significantly impacted by the challenges and opportunities presented by its transportation infrastructure and accessibility to healthcare services. This rural community faces unique hurdles, demanding a nuanced understanding of the available options. We will explore the drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access, ultimately impacting the health and well-being of those **moving to Hill**.

The primary mode of transportation in Hill is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Navigating the region requires a reliance on roadways, with drive times to healthcare facilities often representing a significant time commitment. Residents typically utilize **Interstate 93** (I-93) for north-south travel, and **Route 104** serves as a critical east-west artery. From Hill, accessing larger medical centers necessitates a drive, often involving a combination of these routes.

For example, the closest hospital, Franklin Regional Hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey involves traveling east on Route 104 and then south on I-93. Concord Hospital, a more comprehensive facility, requires a drive of around 45-60 minutes, again relying on a combination of Route 104 and I-93. These drive times, while manageable for some, can become a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations, chronic conditions, or those relying on public transit.

Public transportation options in Hill are limited. The primary provider is the Concord Area Transit (CAT), offering fixed-route services that may extend to areas near Hill. However, routes are infrequent and may not directly serve the town itself. The availability of public transit, therefore, presents a significant challenge. The current system struggles to meet the needs of those requiring regular healthcare appointments.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the CAT routes and vehicles must be considered. While CAT strives to provide accessible services, the rural nature of the area and the limited routes can create difficulties for individuals with disabilities. The lack of convenient and reliable public transit significantly impacts the overall health score for residents, particularly those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the region, but their availability in Hill is inconsistent. The rural nature of the area and the lower population density mean that ride-sharing services may be less readily available than in more urban areas. This can lead to longer wait times and higher fares, making ride-sharing a less practical option for routine healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services are available to address the specific needs of patients requiring assistance. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations, those requiring specialized equipment, or those needing transport to out-of-town medical appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including but not limited to, American Medical Response (AMR) and LifeCare Ambulance. These services are essential for ensuring that residents can access necessary healthcare, even when other transportation options are unavailable.

The cost of medical transport can be a significant factor, particularly for those with limited financial resources. Insurance coverage for medical transport varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can create a financial burden, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary care. The availability and affordability of medical transport services are crucial components of the overall health score.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 03243 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, the inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to the challenges of healthcare access. For those **moving to Hill**, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial.

The implications of these transportation challenges extend beyond mere convenience. Delayed access to healthcare can lead to poorer health outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and a lower quality of life. The ability to attend routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and emergency care is fundamental to maintaining good health. The limitations in transportation can create barriers, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income individuals.

To improve the overall health score for residents of Hill, several interventions are needed. Expanding public transportation options, including more frequent routes and increased ADA accessibility, would be a significant step. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for healthcare appointments could also improve access. Exploring innovative solutions, such as community-based transportation programs or partnerships with local volunteer organizations, could help address the unique challenges of this rural community.

Additionally, improving the availability of telehealth services can mitigate the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments. Telehealth offers a convenient and cost-effective way for residents to connect with healthcare providers, reducing the reliance on transportation.

Finally, the development of a comprehensive community health needs assessment can help identify specific transportation barriers and develop targeted interventions. This assessment should involve input from residents, healthcare providers, and community organizations to ensure that solutions are tailored to the unique needs of the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP Code 03243 is directly influenced by the challenges of healthcare access. The limitations in transportation, including the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, the inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transport, all contribute to these challenges. Addressing these issues through expanded public transit, subsidized ride-sharing programs, telehealth initiatives, and community-based solutions is essential to improving the health and well-being of residents in Hill, New Hampshire. As people consider **moving to Hill**, they must factor in these transportation considerations to ensure their ability to access necessary healthcare services.