03771, Monroe, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03771, Monroe, New Hampshire is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.79 percent of residents in 03771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cottage Hospital with a distance of 9.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03771 (Monroe, NH)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for healthcare access within ZIP Code 03771, focusing on transportation options. This score reflects the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Monroe and evaluating their healthcare access needs.

The health score is not a single number but a narrative evaluation, weighing various factors to paint a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility. It acknowledges the challenges of a rural environment while highlighting existing solutions. The score will be determined by a combination of factors, including the availability and reliability of transportation, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the overall convenience of accessing medical services.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

In Monroe, New Hampshire, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are critical. The closest significant healthcare hub is Littleton Regional Healthcare (LRH), approximately 10 miles away, a drive that usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. This route primarily utilizes Route 135, a scenic but winding road that can be affected by snow and ice during winter months.

Further afield, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH, is a major regional healthcare provider. Reaching DHMC requires a drive of approximately 60-75 minutes, covering roughly 50 miles. The journey involves navigating Route 135 to Route 302, then merging onto I-93 South. This stretch of interstate offers relatively smooth travel, but traffic congestion around the Lebanon area can extend the commute. For specialized care or services unavailable locally, DHMC becomes a crucial destination.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in surrounding towns like Lisbon and Woodsville. Accessing these facilities generally requires shorter drives, typically under 30 minutes, primarily via local roads like Route 116 and Route 10. These facilities offer a more convenient option for routine check-ups and non-emergency care. However, the availability of specialized services might be limited.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Monroe are limited. The Upper Valley Lake Sunapee Regional Planning Commission (UVLSRPC) operates a demand-response service, providing transportation within the region. This service requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The availability of this service is dependent on scheduling and geographical limitations.

The primary public transit option is the Advance Transit (AT) bus service, which provides routes through the Upper Valley region. However, AT's service to Monroe is minimal, with limited routes and schedules. The routes that do pass through Monroe may not be convenient for accessing healthcare facilities. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, are available on AT buses, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have limited availability in Monroe. Their presence is sporadic, and waiting times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is therefore not recommended.

Medical transport services, however, play a crucial role. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offering door-to-door service for appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services require pre-booking, they offer a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation.

Medical transport options include local ambulance services that can also provide non-emergency transport, though this depends on availability. Additionally, specialized medical transport companies operating in the region can provide transport to DHMC and other regional facilities. The cost of these services varies depending on distance and the level of care required.

**Healthcare Access and the Impact on Moving to Monroe**

For individuals considering moving to Monroe, healthcare access is a crucial factor. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation necessitates careful consideration of drive times to medical facilities. While LRH offers a relatively short commute, access to specialized care at DHMC requires a longer journey.

The limited public transit and ride-sharing options highlight the importance of having a reliable personal vehicle or planning for medical transport services. Individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive should prioritize the availability of NEMT services when evaluating their healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 03771 is "Moderate." While the proximity to LRH provides convenient access to basic medical services, the longer commute to DHMC and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services and the potential for ride-sharing offer solutions, but their reliability and cost should be carefully considered.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Residents of Monroe should familiarize themselves with the local medical transport services and their booking procedures. Planning for appointments well in advance is crucial, particularly for those requiring specialized care at DHMC. Exploring carpooling options with neighbors or friends can also help mitigate transportation challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Monroe, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Evaluating the availability of specialists, the frequency of required medical appointments, and their ability to manage the commute to healthcare facilities is vital.

The overall health score reflects the realities of rural healthcare access. While Monroe offers a peaceful environment and a close-knit community, the geographical challenges necessitate careful planning and consideration regarding transportation to healthcare facilities. The availability of medical transport services and the potential for ride-sharing offer solutions, but their reliability and cost should be carefully considered.