05489, Underhill, Vermont Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 05489, Underhill, Vermont is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.05 percent of residents in 05489 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 14.56 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05489 (Underhill, Vermont)

The crisp Vermont air, the rolling Green Mountains, and the quaint village of Underhill, ZIP code 05489, paint a picture of idyllic living. However, for individuals navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers, the reality of accessing healthcare can be a significant challenge. This analysis, an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and around Underhill, examining the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This is particularly crucial when considering the unique needs of those living with cognitive decline, highlighting factors impacting healthcare access.

The primary concern revolves around the practicality of transportation. Underhill, while offering a serene environment, is geographically isolated. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are in Burlington, a drive that necessitates careful planning and consideration of various transportation options. This is especially important when thinking about the possibility of moving to Underhill, where healthcare access must be a top priority.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents its own set of hurdles. The primary route to Burlington involves navigating **Route 15**, a two-lane highway that can become congested, particularly during peak hours. The drive, approximately 20 miles, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, but this can easily stretch with traffic or inclement weather. This is a significant consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience heightened anxiety or confusion during longer journeys. The winding nature of **Route 15** and the potential for delays demand careful planning and the presence of a reliable caregiver.

Alternative routes exist, but they introduce their own complexities. Taking **Pleasant Valley Road** and then merging onto **Route 15** offers a slightly more scenic route, but it also involves navigating narrower, more winding roads. This might be less desirable for those with visual impairments or those who become easily disoriented. Another option involves taking **Route 100** south to **Route 2** before heading west into Burlington. This route is longer, adding approximately 10-15 minutes to the drive, and involves navigating a more complex series of turns and intersections.

Public transportation options are limited in Underhill and the surrounding areas. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) operates bus routes, but service frequency and coverage are limited. The primary route serving the area is the **Route 116**, which connects to Burlington. However, the bus schedule may not align with medical appointments, and the travel time is considerably longer than driving, often taking over an hour. Furthermore, the bus stops in Underhill are not always easily accessible, and the buses themselves may not always feature ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as ramps or lifts, making it difficult for those with mobility issues to board.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Burlington area, but their presence in Underhill is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliance on a smartphone and the app-based system might also pose challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments or those unfamiliar with technology.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the Burlington area, including **Carelink**, **Vermont Ambulance Service**, and **Bayada Home Health Care**. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and provide support during the journey. However, these services are typically more expensive than other options, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

Healthcare access also hinges on the availability of local medical providers. While Underhill has some primary care physicians and a pharmacy, specialized care, such as neurology, cardiology, and geriatric psychiatry, is primarily concentrated in Burlington. This necessitates travel for specialist appointments, further compounding the transportation challenges. The availability of home healthcare services in Underhill is also an important consideration. Services like **Visiting Nurse Association of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties** (VNA) provide in-home care, which can reduce the need for frequent trips to medical facilities.

The Alzheimer's Score for Underhill, ZIP code 05489, is thus a complex calculation. While the natural beauty and peaceful environment are undeniable, the limited transportation options and the distance to specialized medical care present significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The reliance on driving, the limited public transportation, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access.

When considering moving to Underhill, families must carefully evaluate the transportation needs of their loved ones. They should explore the availability of medical transportation services, assess the feasibility of driving, and investigate the potential for home healthcare support. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care and maintaining the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer's. This score is a call for careful consideration and proactive planning, ensuring that the beauty of Underhill doesn't come at the cost of healthcare access.