03249, Gilford, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03249, Gilford, New Hampshire is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.86 percent of residents in 03249 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Concord Hospital- Laconia with a distance of 3.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Gilford, NH (ZIP Code 03249)

Assessing the overall health of a community involves more than just the quality of its medical facilities. It necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, which is inextricably linked to transportation options. For residents of Gilford, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03249), the ability to reach healthcare providers is a critical factor in their well-being. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on commute times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This information is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Gilford**, seeking a clear understanding of healthcare access.

The geographical layout of Gilford, nestled in the Lakes Region, presents both advantages and challenges for **transportation**. The town's relative proximity to larger population centers like Laconia and Concord offers access to a wider range of medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation must be carefully considered.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in and around Gilford are the major highways and local roads. The **NH Route 11** corridor serves as a crucial east-west connector, providing access to Laconia and its various healthcare facilities. Driving west on Route 11, you'll reach the Laconia Hospital & Medical Center, a primary care facility, in approximately 10-15 minutes. This short drive time contributes positively to the health score.

Traveling north on **NH Route 11A** offers a direct route to the Lakes Region General Hospital, also located in Laconia, with a similar drive time of around 15 minutes. This hospital provides specialized care and is a significant resource for Gilford residents. The ease of access to these hospitals, facilitated by well-maintained roads, significantly enhances the overall health score.

For those seeking more specialized care or access to larger medical centers, the journey to Concord, the state capital, is necessary. This requires navigating **Interstate 93** (I-93), a major north-south highway. The drive to Concord Hospital, the largest medical facility in the region, typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic conditions. While this longer commute time is a factor, the availability of I-93 provides a reliable route.

Smaller, local roads like **Gilford Avenue** and **Belknap Mountain Road** primarily serve residential areas. These roads, while convenient for local errands, are not direct routes to major healthcare facilities. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can impact commute times and accessibility.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Gilford are limited, which presents a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the **Lakes Region Transportation Authority (LRTA)**, often referred to as the "Breeze." The Breeze offers bus routes that primarily serve the Laconia area, with limited service to Gilford.

The specific routes and schedules of the Breeze should be carefully researched. Some routes may have stops within Gilford, but their frequency and coverage may be insufficient for reliable access to healthcare appointments. The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** accessibility of the Breeze buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. All LRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to ensure accessibility. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules of public transit significantly detract from the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Lakes Region, including Gilford. However, their availability and reliability can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The dependence on ride-sharing services adds a layer of uncertainty to healthcare access.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. Several providers operate in the region, including **CareLink**, **Medicaid Transportation**, and private ambulance services. These services cater to various needs, from non-emergency medical appointments to emergency situations. However, the cost and availability of these services can vary. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their accessibility and affordability must be assessed.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, the overall health score for healthcare access in Gilford (03249) is moderately positive. The relatively short drive times to Laconia's hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services are positive factors. However, the limited public transit options, the potential for longer commutes to specialized care in Concord, and the reliance on personal vehicles for most residents present challenges.

Individuals **moving to Gilford** should carefully consider their transportation needs and access to healthcare. While the area offers a good quality of life, the transportation landscape requires careful planning. Those without reliable transportation should explore ride-sharing options, medical transport services, and the potential for utilizing family or friends for transportation.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services, which allow for remote consultations and monitoring, can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, telehealth is not a substitute for in-person care, and its effectiveness depends on the availability of technology and internet access.

In conclusion, while Gilford offers access to healthcare, the transportation infrastructure presents certain limitations. Residents must be proactive in planning their healthcare access, considering all available options, and adapting to the realities of the local transportation environment. The overall health score reflects a balance between positive and negative factors, underscoring the importance of individual planning and community support to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents. The health score is also impacted by the individual's specific needs and circumstances, and the availability of support from family, friends, and community organizations. The future of healthcare access in Gilford will likely involve continued efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing options, and promote the use of telehealth services.