03266, Rumney, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03266, Rumney, New Hampshire is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.26 percent of residents in 03266 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Speare Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03266 (Rumney, NH)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Rumney, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03266), necessitates a deep dive into the critical aspect of **healthcare access**. This analysis focuses on the feasibility and efficiency of **transportation** options available to access medical services, a crucial determinant of community well-being. The geographical isolation of Rumney, nestled within the White Mountains region, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access.

Rumney, a town of approximately 1,500 residents, offers a tranquil, rural lifestyle. However, its remoteness significantly impacts the ease with which residents can reach essential medical facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialized care centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, demanding careful consideration of travel times and available transportation alternatives. This write-up will explore these factors, providing a comprehensive overview of the health score implications for those **moving to Rumney**.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Rumney is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's road network, while scenic, is limited in its direct connections to major medical hubs. The most direct route to essential services often involves navigating the winding roads of the region.

The closest significant medical facility is generally considered to be the Speare Memorial Hospital in Plymouth, New Hampshire. The drive to Plymouth typically involves traveling south on **NH-25**, a two-lane highway that offers scenic views but can experience congestion during peak travel times, especially during the summer months when tourism is at its peak. The drive is roughly 15-20 minutes, a relatively manageable commute for urgent care needs.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. The Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, a regional referral center, is a common destination for complex medical needs. Reaching Lebanon from Rumney requires a longer drive, often involving **NH-25** south to **I-93** south, then west on **NH-120**. This journey can take approximately one hour, depending on traffic conditions and the time of day.

Another option, particularly for those in the northern part of Rumney, might involve traveling north on **NH-118** to connect with **US-3** and then **I-93** south to Plymouth or further south to Manchester. This route can be an alternative, but the drive times are similar, and the road conditions can vary with weather, particularly during the winter months.

The drive times to these facilities are crucial for determining the overall health score. While the Speare Memorial Hospital offers relatively quick access, the longer travel times to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center can pose a significant challenge, especially in emergency situations. The need for reliable transportation and awareness of potential delays due to weather or traffic are paramount.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Rumney are extremely limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The area's sparse population density and rural character make it challenging to sustain a robust public transit system.

The primary public transit provider in the region is the Plymouth Area Transportation Service (PATS). PATS offers a demand-response service, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance. However, this service primarily serves the Plymouth area and may not offer direct routes to Rumney or frequent service. Riders must call to schedule a ride, often requiring several days' notice.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. PATS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service. However, the limited service area and the need for advance scheduling can still pose challenges.

The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive. This limitation increases the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options, which may not always be available.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region, but their presence in Rumney is not guaranteed. The availability of drivers can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a vital role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, NEMT services, which transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are often provided by private companies.

Several NEMT providers serve the region, including companies like LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These services typically require pre-booking and may have limitations on the distance they will travel. The cost of NEMT can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can improve the health score, but their limitations must be acknowledged. The uncertainty of ride-sharing availability and the cost of NEMT can still pose challenges for residents seeking healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Implications**

The overall health score for residents of Rumney, New Hampshire, is significantly influenced by the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. The town's rural location and limited transportation options create a complex landscape that requires careful consideration.

The primary strengths include the relatively short drive to the Speare Memorial Hospital in Plymouth, which provides access to basic medical services. The availability of ambulance services ensures that emergency medical needs can be addressed promptly.

However, several weaknesses negatively impact the health score. The long drive times to specialized care facilities, such as Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, can delay access to critical medical services. The limited public transportation options and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for those without personal vehicles. The cost of NEMT can also be a significant burden for some residents.

The overall health score for Rumney, therefore, is moderate. While residents have access to basic medical services and emergency care, access to specialized care and transportation options can be challenging. The town's health score could be improved by enhancing public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for NEMT services. This would significantly improve the lives of those **moving to Rumney**, ensuring they can access the healthcare they need.