03752, Goshen, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03752, Goshen, New Hampshire is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.06 percent of residents in 03752 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is New London Hospital with a distance of 10.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Goshen, NH (ZIP Code 03752)

Goshen, New Hampshire, a town nestled in the heart of the Granite State, offers a tranquil lifestyle, a slower pace, and a strong sense of community. However, when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing health and well-being, a crucial factor to evaluate is the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for Goshen, focusing on transportation and healthcare access within and around ZIP Code 03752. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for prospective residents.

The primary determinant of Goshen's healthcare accessibility is its relative isolation. The town's rural character, while charming, presents significant challenges in terms of transportation. The nearest major medical facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs. This dependence underscores the importance of understanding drive times, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

The most direct route to essential healthcare services in the area usually involves navigating the local roads. Route 31, a key artery, connects Goshen to nearby Newport, where the Newport Hospital, a critical access hospital, provides a range of medical services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized treatments. The drive to Newport via Route 31 is generally a pleasant one, taking approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger medical centers. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, a regional hub for advanced medical services, is approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive from Goshen, primarily via Route 120. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience heavier traffic during peak hours, potentially increasing travel time. The distance necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments and emergencies.

Another option for specialized care is the Cheshire Medical Center in Keene, which is approximately a 1-hour to 1-hour and 15-minute drive from Goshen, primarily via Route 10. This route offers scenic views but can be subject to delays due to winding roads and seasonal traffic. It is crucial to consider the time of day and potential for inclement weather when planning a trip to Keene.

Public transportation options in Goshen are extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, particularly seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation for maintaining good health in Goshen.

While there is no fixed-route public transportation within Goshen, the Upper Valley Lake Sunapee Regional Planning Commission (UVLSRPC) may offer some limited transportation services, often on a demand-response basis. These services are often targeted towards seniors and people with disabilities, and require advance booking. It's essential to contact UVLSRPC directly to inquire about service availability, routes, and ADA accessibility features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Goshen and the surrounding areas. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be significant, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of reliable ride-sharing options further exacerbates the transportation challenges for those seeking healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in Goshen. Ambulance services are primarily for emergency situations, while NEMT services cater to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. The availability of NEMT services varies, and it's crucial to research and book these services in advance, especially for routine appointments.

The Overall Health Score for Goshen, NH, in terms of healthcare access and transportation, is moderate. While the town offers a peaceful environment and proximity to essential services, the limited transportation options present significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a car.

For individuals considering moving to Goshen, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who can drive and have reliable vehicles will find healthcare access manageable, albeit with potential travel time considerations. However, for those who cannot drive or have mobility limitations, the lack of alternative transportation options could pose a significant challenge.

The overall score is influenced by the drive times to essential medical facilities. The proximity to Newport Hospital offers reasonable access to basic medical care, but the longer travel times to specialized medical centers in Lebanon and Keene necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing further impacts the score, making it crucial for prospective residents to factor in these transportation limitations when assessing their overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, while Goshen offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access present some limitations. Prospective residents should carefully weigh their individual needs and circumstances, considering the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential travel times to access the necessary healthcare services. Planning ahead and exploring available medical transport options are essential for maintaining good health and well-being in this charming, yet geographically isolated, New Hampshire town. The Overall Health Score reflects the balance between the town's positive attributes and the practical challenges of accessing healthcare, making it a critical factor in the decision-making process for those considering moving to Goshen.