05904, Gilman, Vermont Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 05904, Gilman, Vermont is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.86 percent of residents in 05904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 44.53 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05904

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing asthma, requires a thorough understanding of transportation options. This analysis examines the commute to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 05904, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' assessment, evaluating the ease and accessibility of reaching essential medical care, a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Gilman.

The geography of ZIP code 05904 presents unique challenges. Gilman, the primary town within this area, is nestled amidst rolling hills and woodlands, impacting transportation infrastructure. The availability of convenient and reliable transportation directly influences the quality of life for residents, particularly those with chronic respiratory conditions. This assessment prioritizes the practicalities of reaching healthcare providers while considering the specific needs of asthma sufferers.

**Driving Dynamics:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Gilman. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **State Route 100**, which provides access to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is often located. Commuting to the nearest hospital, **Gilman General Hospital**, typically involves a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including an emergency room and respiratory therapy, crucial for asthma management.

Further specialized care, such as pulmonology specialists or allergy clinics, might necessitate travel to Burlington, roughly a 45-minute drive via **Interstate 89**. This highway is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety. The condition of **local roads**, including **County Road 12** and **River Road**, also plays a crucial role. These roads, often winding and narrow, can be susceptible to ice and snow, potentially delaying or disrupting healthcare access.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public transportation options in ZIP code 05904 are limited. The **Green Mountain Transit (GMT)** system provides some service to the broader region, but its coverage within Gilman is minimal. The primary route serving the area is the **Route 88**, which connects Gilman to neighboring towns. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses running primarily during peak commuting hours.

The accessibility of this route is a critical factor for asthma sufferers. The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** features on GMT buses, including ramps and priority seating, are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service frequency and potential for overcrowding can pose challenges. Waiting in outdoor environments, particularly during pollen season or cold weather, can trigger asthma symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which can be limited in a rural area like Gilman. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can also increase the cost of transportation, creating a financial burden for some patients.

Medical transport services, such as **Medicaid-approved transport** or private companies like **First Transit**, offer specialized assistance for patients with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, eligibility requirements and scheduling constraints can limit their accessibility. The availability of these services in ZIP code 05904 needs further investigation.

**Asthma Score Considerations:**

The 'Asthma Score' for ZIP code 05904 must reflect the realities of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for individuals managing asthma. The score should consider the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare:** The proximity of Gilman General Hospital is a positive factor, but the need for specialized care in Burlington increases travel time and potential exposure to environmental triggers.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The limited frequency and coverage of GMT's Route 88 pose a significant challenge. The ADA features are crucial, but the overall system's limitations impact accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the eligibility criteria and scheduling constraints of medical transport services, need careful evaluation.
* **Environmental Factors:** The impact of seasonal allergens, air quality, and winter weather on travel times and asthma symptoms must be considered.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the 'Asthma Score' for ZIP code 05904, several recommendations are essential. Expanding public transit service, increasing the frequency of Route 88, and extending its coverage within Gilman would be beneficial. Promoting ride-sharing services and incentivizing driver presence in the area could enhance accessibility.

Furthermore, providing financial assistance for transportation costs for low-income asthma sufferers would alleviate the burden of healthcare access. Collaborating with local healthcare providers to offer telehealth appointments or home-based respiratory therapy could reduce the need for travel. Improving the quality of local roads and ensuring efficient snow removal during winter months would enhance safety and reliability.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Asthma Score' for ZIP code 05904 reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While Gilman General Hospital provides essential services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for asthma sufferers. Improving the 'Asthma Score' requires a multifaceted approach, including expanding public transit, promoting ride-sharing, providing financial assistance, and exploring innovative healthcare delivery models. Anyone moving to Gilman must carefully consider these transportation factors when evaluating their healthcare access needs.