03450, Harrisville, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03450, Harrisville, New Hampshire is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.56 percent of residents in 03450 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monadnock Community Hospital with a distance of 8.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Harrisville, NH (ZIP Code 03450)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to its accessibility to healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Harrisville, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03450), focusing on the crucial aspect of **transportation** to medical facilities. We will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Harrisville** or evaluating their current healthcare access.

Harrisville, a charming town nestled in the Monadnock Region, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural location presents unique challenges when it comes to **healthcare access**. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the transportation landscape, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Harrisville is the personal vehicle. Drive times are heavily influenced by the local road network. The primary arteries for reaching medical facilities are New Hampshire Route 101 and New Hampshire Route 123. These roads, while scenic, can experience congestion during peak hours, impacting travel times.

The closest primary care options are located in the neighboring towns of Peterborough and Keene. Peterborough, approximately 10 miles east, is generally a 15- to 20-minute drive via Route 101. Keene, roughly 20 miles west, takes about 30 to 40 minutes, again primarily utilizing Route 101 and Route 123. These drive times are estimates and can vary based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination within the town.

Specialist appointments and hospital visits often necessitate travel to larger medical centers. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, a renowned regional hospital, is approximately 70 miles north, requiring a drive of around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, largely on Route 101 and Interstate 89. Boston, with its numerous world-class hospitals, is about 90 miles south, presenting a drive time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, primarily via Route 101 and Interstate 95.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Targeted Support**

Public transportation options in Harrisville are limited, reflecting the town's rural character. The Monadnock Community Transit (MCT) provides some services in the region, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for frequent healthcare access. MCT operates primarily in the Peterborough and Keene areas, with limited service extending to Harrisville.

The availability of MCT services for healthcare appointments is often dependent on pre-arranged scheduling and may require significant advance notice. The MCT system does provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to transportation. However, the limited frequency and route coverage can make it challenging for residents to rely solely on public transit for their healthcare needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Harrisville area, although their availability may be less consistent than in more urban areas. The reliability of these services can be affected by factors such as driver availability, time of day, and weather conditions. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for appointments at specific times.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

**Medical Transport Brands**

* **Ambulance Services:** Provided by local emergency medical services (EMS) and regional ambulance companies, primarily for emergencies.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT):** Companies like **CareRide** and **First Transit** offer scheduled transportation for medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare-related needs. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The Overall Health Score for transportation to healthcare in Harrisville, NH (03450) is influenced by several factors. While the town's proximity to Peterborough offers relatively quick access to primary care, the reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs presents challenges. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services can create barriers for those without access to a car.

Drive times to specialist appointments and hospitals in Lebanon and Boston are significant, potentially impacting the ability to seek timely medical care. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

**Recommendations for Residents**

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance and factor in potential travel time, especially for appointments outside of Peterborough.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Investigate the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep abreast of any changes in public transit schedules or routes.
* **Consider Proximity:** When choosing a healthcare provider, consider the location and ease of access.
* **Advocate for Improvement:** Support initiatives that aim to improve healthcare access, such as expanded public transit or increased availability of medical transport services.

**Conclusion**

The Overall Health Score for transportation to healthcare in Harrisville reflects a situation where personal vehicle ownership is crucial. While the town offers a peaceful setting, the accessibility to medical facilities requires careful planning and consideration of available transportation options. For individuals considering **moving to Harrisville**, understanding these transportation factors is essential for ensuring access to necessary healthcare services.