03458, Peterborough, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03458, Peterborough, New Hampshire is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.00 percent of residents in 03458 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Monadnock Community Hospital with a distance of 0.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Peterborough, NH (ZIP Code 03458)

The picturesque town of Peterborough, New Hampshire, nestled in the Monadnock region, offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and community spirit. However, when considering a move, particularly for those prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape becomes crucial. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 03458, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical care. Factors like distance, traffic congestion, and the availability of alternative transportation methods significantly impact this score. A higher score suggests more convenient and accessible healthcare options, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. This assessment aims to equip prospective residents with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Peterborough. The town's central location provides relatively easy access to various medical facilities. However, understanding drive times, especially during peak hours, is essential.

From ZIP code 03458, the most direct route to Monadnock Community Hospital in Peterborough itself involves navigating local roads. The average drive time is approximately five to ten minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity is a significant advantage, contributing positively to the overall health score.

For specialized care or access to larger hospitals, residents often travel to Keene, NH, or Nashua, NH. The journey to Cheshire Medical Center in Keene typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes via Route 202 and Route 101. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential traffic delays can occur during rush hour.

Traveling to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua requires a longer commute, usually taking around one hour and fifteen minutes via Route 101. This route involves navigating a more significant portion of highway, including Route 101, which can experience heavier traffic, especially during peak commuting times.

The condition of the roads, including Route 202 and Route 101, is generally good, but winter weather conditions can pose challenges, potentially increasing travel times and impacting healthcare access. Regular road maintenance and snow removal are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient transportation.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Peterborough are limited but provide a valuable alternative for those who may not drive or prefer not to. The Monadnock Community Transit (MCT) offers a demand-response service, providing transportation within the region.

While MCT doesn't have fixed routes to major healthcare facilities, it offers door-to-door service, which can be arranged in advance. This service is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, the availability of MCT is subject to scheduling and may require advance booking, potentially impacting the immediacy of healthcare access.

The MCT also provides ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. This commitment to accessibility is a crucial factor in evaluating the overall health score. The availability of public transit, though limited, adds a layer of accessibility for those who need it, particularly for those considering moving to Peterborough.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Peterborough area, offering another transportation option for accessing healthcare. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas.

The reliability of ride-sharing services should be considered when evaluating healthcare access. While they provide a convenient option, potential delays or unavailability could impact the ability to reach medical appointments promptly.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several options are available. Ambulance services provide emergency medical transport, while non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services cater to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments.

Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region, offering NEMT services. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. The availability of these specialized services significantly enhances the overall health score, ensuring that individuals with specific needs can access healthcare.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 03458 is moderately positive. The proximity of Monadnock Community Hospital and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a favorable score. However, the limited public transit options and the longer commute times to specialized care facilities in Keene and Nashua present some challenges.

The score also considers the potential impact of weather conditions, particularly during winter months. Prospective residents should factor in potential delays due to snow and ice when planning their healthcare transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Peterborough, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation preferences is crucial. Those who require frequent specialized care or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of transportation options.

The overall health score is also influenced by the town's commitment to accessibility. The availability of ADA-accessible public transit and the presence of NEMT services indicate a proactive approach to ensuring that all residents can access healthcare.

In conclusion, while Peterborough offers a generally accessible healthcare landscape, prospective residents should carefully consider their individual needs and the transportation options available to ensure they can access the care they require. The overall health score is a valuable tool for evaluating the ease and efficiency of commuting to healthcare facilities, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and transportation needs.