03838, Glen, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03838, Glen, New Hampshire is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.37 percent of residents in 03838 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital, The with a distance of 4.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03838 (Glen, NH)

Understanding healthcare access is paramount when considering a move, especially to a more rural area like Glen, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03838). This report provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, evaluating the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities from this location. This score reflects the availability of various transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing medical care.

The “Overall Health Score” for Glen, NH, is influenced by its geographical location within the White Mountains. While offering stunning natural beauty, this setting presents specific transportation challenges. The primary mode of transport is by car, given the limited public transit infrastructure. The score considers drive times to key healthcare providers, the availability of alternative transport, and the presence of specialized medical transport services.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The backbone of transportation in Glen is the automobile. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities is via **US Route 302**, a vital artery through the White Mountains. Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities vary considerably based on the specific destination and traffic conditions.

**Memorial Hospital in North Conway**, the closest hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive along Route 302. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for residents. However, accessing specialized care often necessitates longer journeys.

For more comprehensive medical services, residents may need to travel to **Portsmouth Regional Hospital** (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via **US Route 302** and **US Route 16**). This longer drive underscores the importance of planning and considering potential delays, particularly during peak tourist seasons or inclement weather.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon**, a major regional medical center, is a significantly longer drive, estimated at around 2 hours and 30 minutes via **US Route 302** and **Interstate 91**. This extended travel time necessitates careful consideration for those requiring specialized care.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options are limited in Glen. The **Conway Scenic Railroad** offers a scenic train ride, primarily catering to tourists. However, it doesn't provide a direct route to healthcare facilities.

The **Coös County Transit** provides limited bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules may not align with the needs of accessing healthcare. The frequency of service is infrequent, and routes may not directly connect Glen with major medical centers.

ADA accessibility on public transit is a critical factor for individuals with disabilities. While some public transit providers strive for ADA compliance, the rural nature of the area and the limited infrastructure may present challenges in terms of accessibility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability and reliability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This makes relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access potentially problematic.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. **American Medical Response (AMR)** is a prominent provider in the region, offering ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation. **Carelink** and **FirstLight Home Care** may also provide transportation services for medical appointments.

These services are crucial for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, it's essential to consider the cost and availability of these services, as they may require advance booking and could be subject to geographical limitations.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Glen, NH, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Memorial Hospital in North Conway offers a significant advantage, the limited public transit options and the potential for lengthy drives to access specialized care impact the overall score.

The availability of ride-sharing services is a positive factor, but their reliability can be variable. Medical transport services provide a crucial safety net for those with specific needs, but their cost and availability must be considered.

When contemplating moving to Glen, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation requirements. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the drive times and potential reliance on medical transport services.

**Recommendations:**

* **Pre-Move Assessment:** Before moving, assess your healthcare needs and identify the closest healthcare providers.
* **Transportation Planning:** Develop a detailed transportation plan that considers drive times, potential traffic delays, and alternative transportation options.
* **Medical Transport Contact:** Identify and establish contact with local medical transport providers in advance.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Familiarize yourself with emergency medical services and ensure you have a plan in place for unexpected medical needs.
* **Community Resources:** Explore community resources, such as senior centers or local volunteer organizations, that may offer transportation assistance.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Glen, NH, highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration when it comes to healthcare access. While the area offers natural beauty and a desirable lifestyle, the transportation challenges necessitate proactive planning and a realistic assessment of your healthcare needs. By understanding the transportation landscape and taking appropriate measures, residents can navigate the healthcare system effectively and maintain their well-being while enjoying the benefits of moving to Glen. The ability to access healthcare is a critical factor in overall quality of life, and understanding the transportation challenges is key to making an informed decision about where to live.