03835, Farmington, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03835, Farmington, New Hampshire is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.28 percent of residents in 03835 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frisbie Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Farmington, NH (ZIP Code 03835)

Farmington, New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of the Lakes Region, offers a charming small-town atmosphere. However, assessing its overall health score requires a deep dive into a crucial element: **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. For those considering **moving to Farmington**, understanding these factors is paramount. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities presented by commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP Code 03835.

The primary consideration revolves around the time it takes to reach essential medical services. Farmington's relative isolation, while contributing to its appeal, also translates to longer travel times. The closest major medical centers are located in Dover, Rochester, and Wolfeboro, each presenting its own unique transportation challenges.

For those driving, the primary arteries are Route 11 and Route 153. Route 11, a major east-west thoroughfare, connects Farmington to Rochester, approximately a 15-20 minute drive under ideal conditions. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend this commute. Route 153, heading north, provides access to Wolfeboro, a scenic drive of about 30-40 minutes. This route, while less prone to congestion, can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

Reaching Dover, the location of Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, requires navigating a combination of Route 11 and the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16). The Spaulding Turnpike, a limited-access highway, offers a faster, more direct route. However, the toll booths and potential for accidents can introduce delays. The total drive time to Dover typically ranges from 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Farmington.

Public **transportation** options in Farmington are limited. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for healthcare access. The routes primarily serve the Dover and Rochester areas, with limited service to Farmington. The frequency of service is also a significant factor, with buses often running on hourly or even less frequent schedules. This can pose a challenge for those requiring timely medical appointments or emergency care.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. COAST does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but the overall accessibility of the system, including the availability of accessible bus stops and the ease of transferring between routes, needs careful consideration. Those relying on public **transportation** for healthcare must factor in the potential for longer travel times and the need for careful planning.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not always guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving or public **transportation**, it is not a universally accessible solution.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are available for those who require them. Ambulance services are provided by local fire departments and private companies, and are available for emergency situations. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, cater to individuals who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments but do not require emergency care. These services can be costly and may require advance booking.

The brands offering NEMT services in the area include, but are not limited to, First Transit and MedStar Ambulance. These services provide a crucial link to **healthcare access** for those unable to drive or utilize public **transportation**. However, the availability of these services, the types of vehicles offered (e.g., wheelchair-accessible vans), and the insurance coverage accepted should be thoroughly investigated.

Considering the geographical layout of Farmington, the distance to medical facilities, and the limitations of public **transportation**, the overall health score for **healthcare access** is moderately impacted. While residents have access to essential medical services, the **transportation** challenges can create barriers.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges extends beyond simply the time it takes to reach a doctor's appointment. It can affect a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and access preventative care. For those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations, the difficulties in navigating the **transportation** landscape can be particularly acute.

For individuals considering **moving to Farmington**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. This includes evaluating the frequency of medical appointments, the availability of reliable **transportation**, and the potential costs associated with commuting to healthcare facilities.

The local community, including the town government and healthcare providers, can play a vital role in improving **healthcare access** in Farmington. This includes advocating for increased public **transportation** options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and supporting the expansion of medical **transportation** services.

Furthermore, the development of telehealth services can help bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Telehealth, which allows patients to consult with doctors remotely via video conferencing or phone calls, can reduce the need for travel and improve **healthcare access**, particularly for those living in rural areas.

In conclusion, while Farmington offers a desirable quality of life, the **transportation** infrastructure presents challenges to **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall health score. For those considering **moving to Farmington**, a proactive approach to assessing their healthcare needs and **transportation** options is crucial to ensure they can access the medical care they require. The success of the community in improving **healthcare access** will depend on the collective efforts of residents, local government, healthcare providers, and **transportation** providers.