03811, Atkinson, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03811, Atkinson, New Hampshire is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.93 percent of residents in 03811 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 15.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Atkinson, NH (ZIP Code 03811)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its access to healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of Atkinson, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03811), specifically focusing on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Atkinson or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The geography of Atkinson, nestled in Rockingham County, presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare access. While the town itself is relatively small, its proximity to larger towns and cities provides access to a broader range of medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options can create barriers, particularly for those without access to a car or with mobility limitations.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Atkinson is by personal vehicle. Driving times to various medical facilities are a critical component of the overall health score. The town's location offers convenient access to major roadways, including Route 121, which serves as a primary artery, connecting Atkinson to neighboring towns like Hampstead and Plaistow. Route 111A provides another crucial link, facilitating travel towards Salem and beyond.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger medical centers in Salem, Derry, or even into Massachusetts. The drive to Salem Hospital, a major regional medical center, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Reaching Parkland Medical Center in Derry requires a similar travel time, approximately 20-25 minutes. Boston, with its concentration of world-renowned hospitals, is accessible via I-93, but the commute can be significantly longer, potentially exceeding an hour during peak traffic.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can impact drive times and safety. Regular maintenance and snow removal are essential for ensuring consistent access to healthcare. Furthermore, the availability of ample parking at medical facilities is another consideration, impacting the overall convenience of appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Atkinson are limited, posing a significant challenge for those who cannot drive. The Rockingham Area Transportation Authority (RATA) offers some routes, but these are primarily focused on serving larger towns and cities within the region. The availability of routes directly serving Atkinson is minimal, and the schedules may not align with the needs of medical appointments.

RATA's services are not specifically designed to accommodate the unique needs of healthcare transportation. While some routes may pass near medical facilities, the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers can make it difficult for those with mobility issues or time constraints.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of RATA's vehicles is a critical factor. All fixed-route buses are required to be ADA-compliant, featuring ramps or lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible services in Atkinson itself is limited.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Atkinson area. However, their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more tailored solution for individuals with specific needs. These services, often provided by private companies, can transport patients to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. The cost of these services can be higher than ride-sharing, but they provide a crucial service for those who cannot drive or require additional support.

Medical transport brands operating in the area include:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Offers ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Care Ride:** Provides wheelchair-accessible transportation and ambulatory services.
* **First Response Ambulance Service:** Provides medical transportation and emergency services.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Atkinson:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Atkinson, NH (03811) reflects a mixed picture. While the town benefits from its proximity to larger medical centers and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport options, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Atkinson, it is crucial to carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will likely find healthcare access relatively convenient. However, individuals who cannot drive, have mobility limitations, or rely on public transportation should carefully consider the available options and potential challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport can mitigate some of the transportation barriers, but these services come with their own set of considerations, including cost and availability.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Atkinson underscores the importance of comprehensive planning and proactive measures to ensure adequate healthcare access. Residents should familiarize themselves with all available transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. Planning ahead, especially for appointments, and considering the potential impact of weather and traffic are crucial for optimizing healthcare access in Atkinson.