03273, South Sutton, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03273, South Sutton, New Hampshire is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

17.28 percent of residents in 03273 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New London Hospital with a distance of 9.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03273 (South Sutton, NH)

Understanding the healthcare landscape is paramount, especially when considering a move, like to the charming town of South Sutton, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03273). This assessment provides an “Overall Health Score” reflecting the ease with which residents can access medical care, factoring in the crucial element of transportation. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in proximity. South Sutton, nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its rural setting dictates a reliance on personal transportation for healthcare needs. The primary roadways connecting South Sutton to medical facilities are Route 114 and Route 11. These roads, while scenic, can present challenges during peak hours or inclement weather.

A crucial consideration is the drive time to the nearest hospitals and urgent care facilities. Concord Hospital, a major regional medical center, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Reaching Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, a more specialized facility, extends the commute to roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. Smaller, more local clinics and primary care physicians are generally accessible within a 15-25 minute drive, offering a degree of convenience for routine appointments.

Public transportation options in South Sutton are limited, a common characteristic of rural areas. The primary public transit provider in the region is the Concord Area Transit (CAT). However, CAT's routes are primarily focused on serving Concord and surrounding areas, and do not directly serve South Sutton. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or alternative transportation arrangements.

Individuals requiring public transit must first travel to Concord, and from there, they can access routes that may connect to other towns with healthcare facilities. However, this adds significant time and complexity to the journey. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those who are unable to drive.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of public transit options is a crucial consideration for residents with mobility limitations. CAT, like most public transit systems, strives to provide ADA-accessible buses and services. However, the limited route coverage and the need for multiple transfers can pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other ADA-compliant features should be verified with CAT directly.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, though their availability in South Sutton and the surrounding areas may be limited. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions, should also be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide another option. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services can transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of NEMT services can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

The availability of these alternative transportation options can significantly impact the overall health score. While ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer solutions, their cost, availability, and reliability must be carefully assessed. The lack of robust public transit options underscores the importance of personal vehicles for accessing healthcare in South Sutton.

The “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP code 03273, considering transportation factors, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While primary care physicians and smaller clinics are relatively accessible, the commute to major hospitals and specialized medical facilities can be time-consuming. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation services add complexity and potential barriers to healthcare access.

The score is influenced by the following key factors: the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options. The absence of readily available public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles are significant challenges.

When considering a move to South Sutton, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare. The availability of a reliable vehicle and the ability to drive are essential. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without personal vehicles may face greater challenges in accessing medical care.

The “Overall Health Score” is not static; it can be improved. Efforts to enhance public transportation options, such as expanding CAT routes to serve South Sutton, would significantly improve healthcare access. Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services and promoting medical transportation options would also contribute to a higher score.

The ideal scenario would involve a multifaceted approach, combining improved public transit, readily available ride-sharing services, and accessible medical transportation options. Until such improvements are realized, residents of South Sutton must prioritize their transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure they can access the healthcare they require.

The “Overall Health Score” is a valuable tool for prospective residents, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare access in South Sutton. By understanding the transportation challenges and the available solutions, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their overall well-being. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and the need to consider transportation as an integral component of healthcare access, especially when moving to a rural area like South Sutton.