05155, South Londonderry, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05155, South Londonderry, Vermont is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.34 percent of residents in 05155 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grace Cottage Hospital with a distance of 10.92 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 05155

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate and comprehensive care. But access to that care is not uniform. Where you live, your ZIP code, dictates a significant portion of your healthcare journey. This write-up examines the landscape of breast cancer care access within ZIP code 05155, South Londonderry, Vermont, a rural community nestled in the Green Mountains. We will assess the available **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**, painting a picture for those considering **moving to South Londonderry** or seeking care within its borders.

Our analysis centers on the ability to reach key healthcare providers, specifically those offering breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This includes primary care physicians, imaging centers for mammograms and biopsies, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. The efficiency and ease with which these services can be accessed directly influence the patient experience and, potentially, treatment outcomes.

South Londonderry, Vermont (05155), is a geographically dispersed area. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are primarily located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents will be personal vehicles.

The most direct route to healthcare hubs often involves navigating Vermont Route 100, a scenic but often winding road that serves as the backbone of the region. Driving south on Route 100, one might reach Brattleboro, Vermont, in approximately 45-60 minutes. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital offers comprehensive cancer services, including a breast health center. This drive, while manageable, can be challenging during winter months, requiring careful planning and potentially delaying appointments.

Alternatively, traveling north on Route 100 offers access to facilities in Rutland, Vermont. This journey, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, utilizes Route 100 and then merges onto Route 103. Rutland Regional Medical Center provides a full spectrum of cancer care. The longer drive time necessitates careful scheduling, potentially impacting work and family life.

For those lacking personal vehicles, public **transportation** options are limited in 05155. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus service in the region, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve larger towns. There are no direct routes to Brattleboro or Rutland from South Londonderry. The GMT route 100, the Valley Connector, runs from Manchester to Bellows Falls, but it is not a direct line to the healthcare facilities and requires multiple transfers.

ADA accessibility on these buses is generally available, with ramps and designated seating. However, the limited frequency and indirect routes make public transit a less viable option for many, particularly those undergoing treatment requiring frequent appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable and costly. The cost of these services can quickly accumulate, adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those needing assistance, are available in the area. Companies like Comfort Ride and First Transit offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services require pre-booking and may have limited availability, particularly for short-notice appointments. The cost of these services can be substantial, and the need to arrange them adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare process.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 05155 presents both challenges and opportunities. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel time, especially during winter. The lack of robust public **transportation** options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services highlight the need for alternative solutions.

For those **moving to South Londonderry** or already residing there, proactive planning is crucial. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician who can coordinate care and provide referrals is essential. Understanding the available **transportation** options and their limitations is also critical.

Consideration should be given to the potential need for long drives to appointments and the impact on daily life. Exploring options such as telehealth appointments for follow-up visits or consultations can help mitigate the burden of travel.

The Breast Cancer Score for 05155 reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. While comprehensive care is available within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation**, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services create barriers.

The score would improve with increased public **transportation** options, particularly direct routes to healthcare facilities. The availability of more readily accessible and affordable medical **transportation** services would also significantly enhance the score. Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services could improve the patient experience by reducing the need for frequent travel.

In conclusion, while South Londonderry offers a beautiful and peaceful environment, those considering **moving to South Londonderry** or currently residing there must carefully assess the implications of **healthcare access**, particularly concerning breast cancer care. Proactive planning, a strong support network, and a clear understanding of available **transportation** options are vital for navigating the complexities of the healthcare journey. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for continued efforts to improve **healthcare access** in rural communities, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to receive timely and effective care.