03874, Seabrook, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03874, Seabrook, New Hampshire is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.87 percent of residents in 03874 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 7.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Seabrook, NH (ZIP Code 03874)

Assessing the healthcare landscape within and around Seabrook, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03874), requires a comprehensive understanding of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. This analysis, resulting in an Overall Health Score, considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents and those considering moving to Seabrook, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare needs.

Seabrook, a coastal community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access. Its location, while offering scenic beauty, influences the availability and accessibility of medical services. This analysis delves into the intricacies of navigating the healthcare system from a transportation perspective, aiming to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the existing infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Seabrook are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities. Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery, provides the fastest route to larger medical centers in Portsmouth, approximately a 20-minute drive, and Boston, about an hour away. However, I-95 is known for its congestion, especially during peak hours, potentially extending travel times and impacting healthcare access, particularly during emergencies.

Route 1, a scenic but often slower alternative to I-95, offers access to local medical practices and urgent care facilities. While closer, these facilities may have limited specialized services. Route 107, connecting Seabrook to neighboring towns, provides another option, though it can also be subject to traffic delays. The condition of these roads, including potential for winter weather impacts, further influences healthcare accessibility.

The drive times to various healthcare providers are a significant factor in the Overall Health Score. Shorter drive times, especially in emergencies, are crucial. Longer commutes, especially to specialized care, can create barriers to timely and effective treatment. The efficiency of traffic flow and the reliability of roadways are thus paramount.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Seabrook are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus services, but routes and frequency are limited, especially on weekends and evenings. These limitations necessitate careful planning for healthcare appointments.

The COAST route serving Seabrook may offer limited access to healthcare facilities in nearby towns. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the infrequent schedules and limited route coverage can pose a challenge for accessing timely medical care.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This limitation directly affects the Overall Health Score, highlighting the need for improved public transit options to enhance healthcare accessibility for all residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, providing a potential solution for accessing healthcare. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share trips can also be a barrier for some individuals, influencing their ability to attend appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. These services provide a vital link to healthcare facilities, especially in emergencies. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting healthcare access.

The reliance on ride-share and medical transport services highlights the need for a comprehensive transportation strategy to support healthcare access in Seabrook. The reliability, affordability, and accessibility of these services are critical components of the Overall Health Score.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for Moving to Seabrook:**

The Overall Health Score for Seabrook reflects the interplay of these factors. While the proximity to larger medical centers in Portsmouth and Boston offers access to a wide range of specialized care, the dependence on personal vehicles or limited public transit can create challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Seabrook, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The availability of transportation options, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the availability of specialized care are crucial factors to evaluate. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of ride-share services is essential for informed decision-making.

The Overall Health Score is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives and policy changes. Investing in public transit, expanding ride-share availability, and supporting medical transport services can significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents. These improvements would contribute to a higher Overall Health Score, making Seabrook a more accessible and desirable community for those seeking quality healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for Seabrook, NH (ZIP code 03874) reflects a complex interplay of transportation factors. While the proximity to major medical centers offers access to specialized care, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-share services pose challenges. For those moving to Seabrook, careful consideration of transportation options and healthcare needs is crucial. Improving public transit, supporting ride-share services, and ensuring the availability of medical transport are essential steps towards enhancing healthcare access and improving the Overall Health Score for the community.