05764, Poultney, Vermont Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 05764, Poultney, Vermont is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.38 percent of residents in 05764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 33.37 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05764**

Welcome to Poultney, Vermont, ZIP code 05764. Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, this community offers a unique blend of rural charm and accessibility to essential services. For individuals with asthma, the ease of access to healthcare is paramount. This analysis explores the transportation landscape within and around Poultney, focusing on the commute to healthcare facilities, and providing an "Asthma Score" to assess the challenges and opportunities.

The Asthma Score considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation infrastructure that impacts healthcare access for residents with asthma, ultimately aiding in informed decision-making, especially for those considering moving to Poultney.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Poultney's location presents both advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. The primary healthcare provider for the area is Rutland Regional Medical Center, approximately 25 miles northeast. The most direct route is via US Route 4, a well-maintained highway that offers a relatively smooth journey. Traffic is generally light, contributing to a drive time of around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the time of day and weather conditions.

Alternatively, residents can utilize Vermont Route 30, which provides a more scenic route through the surrounding countryside. However, this road is narrower and more winding, potentially increasing travel time to approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The choice of route often depends on personal preference and the urgency of the medical need.

For urgent care or specialized services, individuals might need to travel to larger cities like Albany, New York, or Burlington, Vermont. Albany is roughly a 2-hour drive via US Route 4 and I-87, while Burlington is a 2.5-hour drive, primarily on US Route 4 and US Route 7. These longer journeys necessitate careful planning, especially for individuals with asthma who may experience breathing difficulties during extended travel.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Poultney is limited. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus services, but they are infrequent and primarily serve the greater Rutland area. The primary route serving Poultney is the Rutland-Poultney-Fair Haven route. However, the schedule is limited, with buses running primarily during weekday business hours.

The accessibility of GMT buses for individuals with asthma is a critical consideration. While GMT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations, it's essential to confirm specific features, such as air conditioning and designated seating for individuals with respiratory conditions, before relying on this mode of transportation.

The limited public transit options present a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, especially for routine appointments or unexpected medical needs. The dependence on public transit can significantly increase travel time and potentially expose individuals to environmental triggers, such as allergens or pollutants.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Poultney area, though their availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services for medical appointments is a concern, as delays or cancellations can disrupt treatment plans.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer a more reliable alternative. Companies like Medical Transport Services and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities or medical equipment. These services require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

**Asthma Score Assessment**

The Asthma Score for healthcare access in Poultney (ZIP code 05764) is moderately challenging. While drive times to Rutland Regional Medical Center are reasonable, the limited public transit options, the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on medical transportation services contribute to the challenges.

The score is influenced by several factors. The drive times, while manageable, can be impacted by weather conditions and traffic. The lack of frequent public transit limits access for those without personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing is not guaranteed, and the cost of medical transportation can be a financial burden.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access for individuals with asthma in Poultney requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit services, particularly with increased frequency and routes, would significantly benefit residents. Promoting ride-sharing availability and subsidizing medical transportation costs for low-income individuals would also improve access.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and offering home healthcare visits can reduce the need for travel altogether. Education and awareness campaigns about asthma management and transportation options would empower residents to make informed choices about their healthcare.

**Conclusion**

Poultney offers a tranquil setting, but healthcare access presents challenges for individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score highlights the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when making decisions about healthcare and living in the area. While the commute to Rutland Regional Medical Center is manageable, the limited public transit, the uncertainty of ride-sharing, and the reliance on medical transportation services require careful consideration. By addressing these challenges, Poultney can improve healthcare access and create a healthier environment for all its residents, especially those with asthma, making it a more welcoming community for those considering moving to Poultney.