05767, Rochester, Vermont Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 05767, Rochester, Vermont is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.92 percent of residents in 05767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 20.53 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 05767

Relocating to a new community, particularly when managing a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for transportation options within ZIP Code 05767 (Rochester, Vermont), focusing on commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions. This information is crucial for individuals and families prioritizing healthcare access when considering moving to Rochester.

The Asthma Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation of the ease and efficiency with which residents of 05767 can reach medical facilities. It considers the impact of transportation on managing asthma symptoms, factoring in travel time, exposure to environmental triggers, and the availability of accessible options. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score signals potential challenges.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary mode of transportation in Rochester, Vermont, is by personal vehicle. The town is relatively rural, and reliance on a car is almost a necessity. The primary routes to healthcare providers, including the Gifford Medical Center in Randolph (approximately 12 miles) and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire (approximately 40 miles), are subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

The drive to Randolph typically involves traveling along Vermont Route 100, a scenic but often winding road. This route can be impacted by snow and ice during winter, potentially increasing travel times and posing challenges for individuals with asthma. The journey to Lebanon usually involves a combination of Vermont Route 100 and Interstate 89. Interstate 89 offers a faster, more direct route, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can still impact travel times.

The drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather, and the specific location within 05767. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes to Randolph and 45-60 minutes to Lebanon under ideal conditions. However, during winter storms or heavy traffic, these times can easily double. Individuals with asthma should factor in these potential delays when planning medical appointments and ensure they have adequate medication on hand for unexpected delays.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within 05767 are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus service, but the routes and frequency are restricted, especially in rural areas. This makes it difficult to rely on public transit for regular medical appointments.

GMT Route 80 (White River Junction/Randolph) does serve Rochester, but the frequency of service is limited, often with only a few scheduled trips per day. This route does provide access to Gifford Medical Center in Randolph. The buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited schedule and potential for long wait times between buses can make this a less viable option for individuals with asthma, particularly during inclement weather.

The lack of comprehensive public transit significantly impacts the Asthma Score. The reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options increases the complexity of healthcare access for residents without their own transportation.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Rochester. The wait times for a ride-share can be prolonged, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This unreliability can pose a challenge for individuals with asthma who require timely access to medical care.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. Ambulance services are reserved for emergency situations, while NEMT providers offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services can be a valuable resource for individuals with asthma who are unable to drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, these services often require prior scheduling and may have associated costs.

**Impact on the Asthma Score:**

The Asthma Score for 05767 is moderately low. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges. The long travel times to larger medical centers, especially during winter, can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

The lack of readily available public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can increase the stress associated with accessing healthcare. This is particularly relevant for individuals with severe asthma or those who experience frequent exacerbations.

**Recommendations for Improving the Asthma Score:**

* **Advocate for Increased Public Transit:** Residents should advocate for expanded GMT service, including more frequent routes and expanded coverage to better serve the needs of the community.
* **Explore Carpooling and Shared Transportation:** Encourage carpooling initiatives and explore the feasibility of community-based transportation programs to provide accessible and affordable transportation options.
* **Utilize Telehealth Services:** Leverage telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and medication refills.
* **Plan Ahead and Consider Weather Conditions:** Individuals with asthma should plan their medical appointments in advance, considering potential delays due to weather or traffic.
* **Establish a Reliable Support Network:** Build a support network of friends, family, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance when needed.
* **Review and update emergency plans:** Ensure that emergency plans are in place for when symptoms flare, and that transportation options are available.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Rochester, Vermont (05767), requires careful consideration of transportation options for healthcare access, especially for individuals with asthma. While the area offers access to quality medical care, the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. By understanding these challenges and proactively seeking solutions, residents can improve their Asthma Score and ensure they can effectively manage their condition while enjoying the benefits of living in this beautiful rural community. The availability of healthcare access is a crucial factor in the overall quality of life, and it is essential to make informed decisions about transportation when considering relocation.