03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.50 percent of residents in 03869 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wentworth-Douglass Hospital with a distance of 1.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rollinsford, NH (ZIP Code 03869)

Rollinsford, New Hampshire, nestled along the Salmon Falls River, presents a unique landscape for residents, especially regarding healthcare access. This assessment, focusing on ZIP code 03869, evaluates the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on various transportation factors. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It aims to offer a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Rollinsford, ensuring informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment, considering the complexities of accessing healthcare. It recognizes that accessibility is more than just distance; it includes the availability of diverse transportation options, the affordability of services, and the overall convenience for residents. This analysis prioritizes factors that directly impact a resident's ability to reach necessary medical care promptly and safely.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

Rollinsford's location, while picturesque, influences healthcare access. The primary arteries for reaching medical facilities are the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 4), Route 16, and local roads like Route 9 and Route 101. Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

For instance, Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 10-15 minute drive via Route 4. However, during peak commuting hours, this drive can extend to 20-25 minutes. Accessing specialists or hospitals in Portsmouth, about 15-20 miles away, requires navigating Route 16 or Route 9, potentially adding 30-45 minutes to the journey, depending on traffic.

The road infrastructure is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions, potentially delaying access to medical care. Residents should always factor in potential delays and plan accordingly, especially during inclement weather. This is a crucial consideration for anyone moving to Rollinsford.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Rollinsford are limited, impacting the "Overall Health Score." The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align with healthcare appointments.

Route 1, for example, connects Rollinsford to Dover and other towns, offering a potential link to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital. However, frequency can be limited, and the journey might involve transfers, adding significant travel time. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a priority for COAST buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and frequency can be a barrier to healthcare access.

The lack of extensive public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation options for residents who cannot or prefer not to drive. This deficiency directly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for those reliant on public transportation. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor when evaluating healthcare access, and its limitations in Rollinsford necessitate careful consideration.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Rollinsford, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. This variability can pose challenges for scheduling appointments or accessing urgent care.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a critical role in healthcare access. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, ensuring prompt response times. NEMT services cater to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments, offering a valuable resource for those unable to drive or use public transit.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including specialized companies that cater to individuals with disabilities or specific medical needs. These services often require advance booking, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning for healthcare appointments. The availability and efficiency of these services directly impact the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Rollinsford reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital are relatively short, access to specialized care or hospitals in Portsmouth or other regional centers can be time-consuming. The limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but reliance on these services necessitates careful planning and advance booking. Residents should consider these factors when evaluating their healthcare needs and making decisions about their health.

Individuals considering moving to Rollinsford should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those without reliable access to a personal vehicle may face challenges in accessing healthcare. Researching available medical providers, understanding transportation options, and planning appointments strategically are essential steps.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Rollinsford (03869) is moderately positive. While residents have access to local medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, limitations exist in public transit and ride-sharing availability. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays, particularly during peak hours and inclement weather, should be considered.

The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but advance planning is essential. Residents prioritizing healthcare access should factor in these transportation considerations when evaluating Rollinsford as a place to live. The "Overall Health Score" highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare planning, considering both the availability of medical services and the ease of access to those services.