03263, Pittsfield, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03263, Pittsfield, New Hampshire is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.59 percent of residents in 03263 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New Hampshire Hospital with a distance of 13.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03263 (Pittsfield, NH)

Understanding the overall health score for a location involves a multifaceted assessment, particularly when considering healthcare access. This write-up focuses on the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 03263, Pittsfield, New Hampshire, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive view for those contemplating moving to Pittsfield and prioritizing healthcare access.

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility in Pittsfield is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's rural character and limited public transit options necessitate driving for most medical appointments. The central location of Pittsfield, nestled amidst rolling hills and scenic landscapes, presents both advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. While the area offers a tranquil living environment, it also necessitates careful planning for medical needs, especially for those without personal transportation.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. Pittsfield's proximity to larger towns and cities dictates the average travel time. Concord, the state capital, is a significant healthcare hub, approximately a 30-minute drive via **Route 107** and **Route 4**. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. Residents can also utilize **Route 28**, offering an alternative route to Concord, though it may be slightly longer depending on the specific destination.

Laconia, another important healthcare destination, is about a 45-minute drive north via **Route 107** and **Route 106**. This route traverses scenic areas but can involve winding roads, particularly as it approaches the Lakes Region. The drive time can be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter months. The availability of these routes is crucial for residents moving to Pittsfield, as they directly impact healthcare access.

Public transportation options are limited in Pittsfield. The Concord Area Transit (CAT) system does not directly serve Pittsfield. The closest CAT routes would require a transfer from an external location, significantly increasing travel time and complexity. This lack of robust public transit presents a considerable challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly seniors and those with disabilities. ADA-compliant features on any potential connecting routes would be critical, but the infrequent service and the need for multiple transfers make public transit a less viable option for most healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, their cost and potential wait times need to be considered. In a rural setting like Pittsfield, the response time for ride-sharing services might be longer than in more urban areas, requiring advance planning for appointments. The availability of these services contributes to the overall health score but is not a guaranteed solution for all residents.

Specialized medical transport services are available, particularly for those with mobility limitations or requiring assistance. These services often cater to individuals needing transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are essential for a segment of the population, but their availability and cost should be considered when evaluating healthcare access.

Healthcare access in Pittsfield, NH, is heavily influenced by transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of drive times and potential traffic delays. While ride-sharing and specialized medical transport offer alternatives, their availability and cost remain factors. The limited public transit options present a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles.

For individuals considering moving to Pittsfield, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Understanding the drive times to various healthcare facilities, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the availability of specialized medical transport will inform their decision-making process. The overall health score for Pittsfield reflects the need for careful planning and resourcefulness when accessing healthcare services.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Pittsfield, NH, is moderately impacted by the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing and specialized medical transport provides some mitigation, but the overall score emphasizes the importance of considering transportation factors when evaluating healthcare access in this rural community. The ease of access to healthcare directly impacts the quality of life for all residents.