03268, Salisbury, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03268, Salisbury, New Hampshire is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.49 percent of residents in 03268 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Concord Hospital- Franklin with a distance of 6.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Salisbury, NH (ZIP Code 03268)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Salisbury, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03268) requires a comprehensive understanding of their access to healthcare services. This includes evaluating the ease and efficiency of their transportation options, considering the distance to medical facilities, and analyzing the availability of various modes of travel. The health score reflects the degree to which residents can readily and reliably reach the care they need. For those considering moving to Salisbury, this analysis provides crucial insights into the practicality of maintaining good health within the community.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Salisbury stems from its rural character. The town is nestled in a region characterized by rolling hills and sparsely populated areas. This geographical reality significantly influences transportation options and, consequently, the overall health score. The most common mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, and the drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Salisbury is **Interstate 93 (I-93)**. Heading south on I-93 offers access to Concord Hospital, a major regional medical center. The drive typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This represents a relatively efficient commute, but it still requires residents to own and maintain a vehicle, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Another important route is **Route 4**, which connects Salisbury to the east and west. This road provides access to smaller clinics and physician offices in towns like Boscawen and Andover. While these facilities may offer more immediate care, they often lack the specialized services available at larger hospitals. The drive times on Route 4 vary, ranging from 15 to 25 minutes, influenced by traffic and road conditions.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The **Concord Area Transit (CAT)** system does not directly serve Salisbury. This means residents must rely on alternative methods to reach CAT routes, which can add considerable time and complexity to their healthcare journeys. This lack of public transportation significantly lowers the overall health score for residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

The absence of robust public transit highlights the importance of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options. **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability introduces an element of uncertainty, potentially delaying or deterring individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

Medical transportation services, such as **Carelink** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, offer specialized transport for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit. However, these services are often more expensive than standard transportation and may require pre-booking, limiting their accessibility for urgent needs.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Salisbury itself is also a factor. While the town may have a small clinic or physician's office, it is unlikely to offer the full spectrum of medical services. This necessitates travel to larger hospitals and specialized clinics in neighboring towns and cities, further emphasizing the importance of transportation.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of the available transportation options are crucial for evaluating healthcare access. Public transportation, where available, must adhere to ADA standards, including accessible vehicles and stops. Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers should also offer accessible options, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The availability and reliability of these accessible options directly impact the health score for individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Salisbury, NH, is moderate. While residents have access to major medical facilities via I-93, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some alternatives, but their cost and reliability can be barriers. For individuals considering moving to Salisbury, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential.

The health score reflects the degree to which residents can conveniently and affordably access the care they need. The more readily available and reliable the transportation options, the higher the health score. Conversely, the more limited the choices and the higher the associated costs, the lower the score. The health score in Salisbury is negatively impacted by the lack of public transportation, which increases the dependency on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services.

The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and easily is fundamental to maintaining good health. Delays in accessing care can lead to poorer health outcomes, especially in cases of acute illness or injury. The health score considers the time it takes to reach various healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency rooms.

The geographical location of Salisbury, while offering a peaceful and scenic environment, poses a significant hurdle to healthcare access. The distance to medical facilities, coupled with the limited transportation options, necessitates careful planning and consideration. For those considering moving to Salisbury, understanding the transportation landscape is vital to making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of preventative care services. Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations are crucial for maintaining good health and preventing serious illnesses. The ease with which residents can access these services directly impacts the health score.

The overall health score is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on developments in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and public policy. Improvements in public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, or the establishment of new healthcare facilities within Salisbury could all contribute to a higher health score.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Salisbury, NH, is a complex metric that considers various factors, including drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. While residents have access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. For those considering moving to Salisbury, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for ensuring their healthcare needs are met.