03766, Lebanon, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03766, Lebanon, New Hampshire is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.55 percent of residents in 03766 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Lebanon, NH (ZIP Code 03766)

Lebanon, New Hampshire, nestled in the Upper Valley, offers a blend of rural charm and burgeoning development, attracting individuals and families seeking a balanced lifestyle. However, assessing the overall health score for residents within ZIP code 03766 requires a nuanced understanding of healthcare access, heavily influenced by the transportation landscape. This write-up analyzes the various transportation options available for accessing healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture for those contemplating moving to Lebanon, ensuring they are well-informed about their healthcare access options.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Lebanon is Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), a regional hub offering a comprehensive range of medical services. Assessing the overall health score necessitates evaluating how easily residents can reach DHMC and other essential healthcare providers. Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation, with the Interstate 89 (I-89) and U.S. Route 4 forming the primary arteries.

For those residing in Lebanon, accessing DHMC, located just off I-89, is generally straightforward. Residents in the town center can expect drive times of under ten minutes, while those in more remote areas might face a 15-20 minute commute. The efficiency of this system significantly contributes to a favorable overall health score. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times, potentially increasing them.

Outside of DHMC, other healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, are dispersed throughout Lebanon and surrounding towns. Reaching these facilities typically involves navigating local roads such as Mascoma Street, Hanover Street, and Bank Street. Drive times to these locations are generally manageable, contributing positively to the overall health score.

Public transportation presents an alternative, particularly for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. Advance Transit, the local public transportation provider, operates several routes within Lebanon and connects to neighboring communities. While Advance Transit offers a valuable service, its coverage and frequency can be limited, especially for those residing outside the central areas.

Specific routes, such as the Orange Route, which travels through Lebanon, offer access to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes might require careful planning. Advance Transit vehicles are ADA-accessible, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. The availability of public transit, while not as comprehensive as in larger urban centers, still plays a crucial role in the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have gained traction in the Upper Valley. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transportation. Availability, however, can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The reliability of ride-sharing services directly impacts the overall health score, as it provides another means of accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, offer door-to-door transportation to and from healthcare appointments. While these services are essential for specific populations, their availability and cost can influence the overall health score.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including Dartmouth-Hitchcock Ambulance and other private companies. The availability of these services is a critical factor in ensuring healthcare access for those with specific needs. The efficiency and responsiveness of these services directly affect the overall health score.

Evaluating the overall health score also requires consideration of the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities. Lebanon benefits from the presence of DHMC, but the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other essential services is also crucial. The proximity of these facilities to residential areas and the ease with which they can be accessed via various transportation modes directly impact the overall health score.

Furthermore, the affordability of transportation plays a significant role. The cost of owning and operating a vehicle, the price of ride-sharing services, and the availability of subsidized public transportation options all influence the ability of residents to access healthcare. The financial burden of transportation can create barriers to healthcare access, ultimately impacting the overall health score.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 03766 is generally favorable. The presence of DHMC, the accessibility of local roads, and the availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services contribute to a positive outlook. However, challenges remain.

The limited frequency of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours can impede healthcare access for some residents. Addressing these challenges through improved public transportation infrastructure, expanded ride-sharing options, and continued investment in healthcare facilities will further enhance the overall health score.

Considering the various factors, the overall health score for accessing healthcare in Lebanon, NH (ZIP code 03766) is moderately high. The efficiency of drive times to DHMC and other healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the emergence of ride-sharing services contribute to a positive healthcare access environment. However, improvements in public transit frequency, ride-sharing availability, and the affordability of transportation would further enhance the overall health score, making Lebanon an even more attractive location for those prioritizing healthcare access.

The overall health score is a dynamic measure, influenced by ongoing developments in transportation and healthcare infrastructure. Continued investment in these areas will ensure that residents of Lebanon, NH, continue to enjoy favorable healthcare access and a high quality of life. The ease of access to healthcare facilities is a critical factor for individuals considering moving to Lebanon.