03878, Somersworth, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 03878, Somersworth, New Hampshire is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.56 percent of residents in 03878 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wentworth-Douglass Hospital with a distance of 2.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Somersworth, NH (ZIP Code 03878)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital services, and one of the most critical of these is healthcare. For residents of Somersworth, New Hampshire, ZIP code 03878, the ease with which they can reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists significantly impacts their overall well-being. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Somersworth, providing an “Overall Health Score” based on the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering various transportation modes. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to Somersworth, as it directly affects their healthcare access.

Somersworth, a vibrant city nestled along the Salmon Falls River, offers a blend of small-town charm and convenient access to larger urban centers. However, its location also presents challenges in terms of healthcare accessibility, particularly for those without personal vehicles. Understanding the available transportation options is key to navigating the healthcare landscape effectively. The “Overall Health Score” reflects the relative ease of reaching healthcare providers, taking into account drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for many Somersworth residents is the personal vehicle. The city is strategically positioned, offering relatively quick access to a range of healthcare facilities. Accessing healthcare facilities in Dover, NH, such as Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, is a common destination. The most direct route involves utilizing Route 16, a major north-south artery. The drive typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For residents seeking specialized care or facilities outside of the immediate vicinity, the availability of major highways is crucial. Interstate 95, a major coastal highway, is readily accessible, providing connections to larger medical centers in Portsmouth, NH, and even Boston, MA. Travel times to these locations can vary significantly, ranging from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the destination and traffic. Navigating these routes during peak hours can be challenging, potentially impacting the speed and convenience of healthcare access.

Secondary roads like Route 108 and Route 155 also provide alternative routes to various healthcare providers. These roads often experience less traffic than Route 16 and I-95, offering a potentially faster option during peak hours. However, these routes may be less direct, potentially increasing overall travel time. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can also impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Somersworth are limited but still play a crucial role in healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those who prefer not to drive. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service throughout the Seacoast region, including Somersworth. Several routes offer connections to healthcare facilities.

Route 1, for example, connects Somersworth to Dover, providing access to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital and various medical offices. Route 3, also operated by COAST, provides access to the Dover Transportation Center, which offers connections to other regional routes. The frequency of these routes varies, with more frequent service during peak hours and less frequent service on weekends and evenings.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transportation. COAST buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transportation can be a barrier for some users. The walk from the bus stop to a healthcare facility can be a challenge for individuals with mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option for Somersworth residents. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on public transportation or personal vehicles. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for longer trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions that make it difficult to travel independently. Several medical transport companies operate in the Somersworth area, including specialized ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services often require advance booking and can be expensive.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several brands offer medical transport services in the Somersworth area. Ambulance services, such as Frisbie Memorial Hospital Ambulance, provide emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. Non-emergency medical transportation providers, such as First Transit and various private companies, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These companies often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other specialized services.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The “Overall Health Score” for commuting to healthcare in Somersworth, NH (ZIP code 03878) is moderately positive. While the city offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges.

The score is influenced by several factors. The proximity of healthcare facilities in Dover and the accessibility of major highways like I-95 contribute positively. The availability of COAST bus routes and ADA accessibility also enhance the score. However, the limited frequency of public transportation, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of alternative transportation options negatively impact the score.

For individuals considering moving to Somersworth, understanding these factors is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers can mitigate some of the challenges, but the associated costs should be considered.

Overall, Somersworth offers a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, residents must carefully consider their individual transportation needs and preferences when planning their healthcare journeys. The “Overall Health Score” reflects the complex interplay of various transportation modes and their impact on the health and well-being of the community. A proactive approach to understanding and utilizing available transportation options is essential for ensuring timely and convenient access to healthcare in Somersworth.