03840, Greenland, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03840, Greenland, New Hampshire is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.46 percent of residents in 03840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Portsmouth Regional Hospital with a distance of 4.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 03840

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 03840, encompassing the town of Greenland, New Hampshire, requires a nuanced understanding of healthcare access, intricately woven with the fabric of transportation options. This evaluation considers the availability and ease of reaching medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the local landscape to secure vital healthcare services.

The primary challenge for residents of Greenland lies in its relative isolation, a characteristic common to many New England towns. While the community boasts a charming rural character, this translates to a reliance on personal vehicles for most daily activities, including healthcare appointments. Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities are crucial in determining the overall health score.

The major arteries impacting healthcare access are the major highways and roads. The primary route is Route 33, the main thoroughfare, which connects Greenland to Portsmouth, a regional hub with a concentration of medical providers. Driving to Portsmouth, home to Portsmouth Regional Hospital and numerous specialist offices, typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Route 95, a major interstate, offers a faster but often congested route, especially during peak hours. Route 1, another significant road, provides an alternative route, but it can also experience heavy traffic, particularly during tourist season.

Beyond Portsmouth, residents may need to travel further for specialized care. Driving to Exeter Hospital, located approximately 15 miles west, can take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific route and traffic. Boston, a major medical center, is about an hour's drive south, but this time can fluctuate significantly based on traffic congestion, potentially impacting the ability to secure timely healthcare.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 03840 are limited. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are often less frequent than in more urban areas. Route 1, for instance, provides access to Portsmouth and other towns, but the frequency of service may not be ideal for medical appointments. Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. COAST buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and schedule constraints can pose challenges for those relying on public transit for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services is also a consideration, as delays or cancellations could impact healthcare access.

Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals with specific needs. These services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater to patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements, potentially adding to the complexity of healthcare access.

The overall health score for ZIP code 03840 is significantly influenced by these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, can impact the timeliness of healthcare access. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present additional challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those facing mobility limitations.

The score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities. While Portsmouth offers a range of medical services, the need to travel to Exeter or even Boston for specialized care adds to the time and effort required to access healthcare. The availability of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics within the immediate area can mitigate some of these challenges, providing convenient options for minor medical needs.

The cost of healthcare and the availability of insurance also play a crucial role. The financial burden of healthcare, including transportation costs, can impact the ability of residents to seek medical attention. The prevalence of health insurance coverage and the affordability of healthcare services are essential factors in determining the overall health score.

The health score for Greenland, New Hampshire, is not a simple number; it is a complex evaluation of the transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare providers, and the socioeconomic factors that influence healthcare access. The score reflects the realities of living in a rural community, where access to healthcare is often intertwined with the challenges of transportation.

The impact of healthcare access on the overall well-being of Greenland residents is undeniable. Timely access to medical care is crucial for preventing and treating illness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring a high quality of life. The ability to easily reach healthcare providers, whether for routine check-ups, specialized treatments, or emergency care, is fundamental to the health and vitality of the community.

The health score for ZIP code 03840 could be improved by enhancing public transportation options, increasing the frequency of bus routes, and expanding the geographic coverage of services. Exploring opportunities to partner with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and reducing traffic congestion, would also improve healthcare access.

The health score is not static; it is subject to change based on evolving factors. For instance, the development of new medical facilities in the area or the expansion of telehealth services could positively impact the score. Conversely, rising healthcare costs or changes in insurance coverage could negatively affect the score.

The question of moving to Greenland, New Hampshire, must be considered in light of the healthcare access challenges. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, with its scenic beauty and close-knit community, prospective residents should carefully consider the transportation factors and the availability of healthcare services.

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP code 03840 reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and socioeconomic factors. While the community benefits from its proximity to Portsmouth and other regional centers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. The score underscores the importance of addressing these challenges to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The ongoing evaluation of these factors is crucial for promoting the health and well-being of the Greenland community.