05456, Ferrisburgh, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05456, Ferrisburgh, Vermont is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.08 percent of residents in 05456 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 15.25 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ferrisburgh, VT (ZIP Code 05456)

The picturesque town of Ferrisburgh, Vermont, nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, offers a serene quality of life. However, when considering a move to this idyllic location, particularly for individuals with a history of breast cancer or those prioritizing proactive healthcare, a crucial factor emerges: **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, analyzing the available options for accessing vital breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within and around ZIP code 05456. This score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents.

Ferrisburgh's relatively rural setting presents unique challenges and opportunities in the realm of healthcare access. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to quantify these complexities, providing a realistic understanding of the logistical considerations involved in receiving timely and effective breast cancer care. This analysis is vital for informed decision-making, especially for individuals prioritizing preventative care and swift intervention.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of **transportation** for Ferrisburgh residents is the personal vehicle. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Burlington, Vermont, a city approximately 25 miles north. The drive to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), a major regional provider, typically takes around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. The most direct route involves taking Route 7 north, a major thoroughfare that connects Ferrisburgh to Burlington.

Route 7, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours, particularly in the vicinity of Shelburne and South Burlington. This congestion could extend drive times, potentially impacting appointment schedules and adding to the stress of healthcare visits.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing local roads, may offer some relief from Route 7 congestion, but they often involve navigating winding country roads, which could be challenging during inclement weather. The drive to UVMMC is crucial for specialized breast cancer care, including mammograms, biopsies, and surgical consultations.

For residents seeking care at smaller clinics or specialists closer to home, such as those in Vergennes (approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 7), the drive times are significantly reduced. However, these facilities may not offer the same breadth of services as the larger hospitals in Burlington.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Ferrisburgh are limited. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service in the area, but routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs. The primary route serving Ferrisburgh is Route 116, which runs between Burlington and Bristol.

Route 116, while offering a connection to Burlington, operates on a limited schedule, with fewer buses running on weekends and evenings. This makes it a less-than-ideal option for those requiring timely appointments or needing to travel with family members or support persons.

ADA accessibility features are available on GMT buses, including ramps and designated seating. However, the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Ferrisburgh is low, especially for individuals facing the physical and emotional challenges associated with breast cancer.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Burlington area and may extend to Ferrisburgh, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services are a crucial component of healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Several medical transport providers serve the Ferrisburgh area, including:

* **Bayada Home Health Care:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation services.
* **Senior Solutions:** Provides transportation assistance for seniors, which may include rides to medical appointments.
* **Vermont Department of Health's Transportation Assistance Program:** Offers financial assistance for transportation to medical appointments for eligible individuals.

These services offer a valuable alternative to driving, but their availability and coverage areas can vary. It's essential to research and arrange medical transport well in advance of appointments, especially for specialized procedures or treatments.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" – A Composite View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Ferrisburgh (ZIP code 05456) is moderately challenging. While the drive to Burlington for comprehensive care is manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers to access. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some flexibility, but they come with their own limitations.

**Factors influencing the score include:**

* **Drive time to major healthcare facilities:** 35-45 minutes to UVMMC.
* **Public transit availability:** Limited routes and frequency.
* **Ride-sharing accessibility:** Inconsistent availability and cost.
* **Medical transport options:** Available, but require pre-planning.
* **Proximity to local clinics:** Shorter drive times to some facilities.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Individuals considering **moving to Ferrisburgh**, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing the disease, should carefully consider the following:

* **Assess their transportation needs:** Determine their ability to drive and the availability of a reliable vehicle.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify specialists and facilities in Burlington and Vergennes.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Contact medical transport providers to understand their services, costs, and availability.
* **Consider the impact of weather:** Vermont winters can pose challenges to driving and transportation.
* **Factor in the cost of transportation:** Budget for gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, or medical transport services.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Ferrisburgh offers a desirable lifestyle, but **healthcare access** requires careful planning. While the drive to Burlington is relatively straightforward, the limited public transit and potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services warrant consideration. Individuals prioritizing preventative care and timely treatment should proactively research their options and ensure they have a reliable **transportation** plan in place. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for a more informed decision-making process, enabling prospective residents to navigate the complexities of healthcare access in this charming Vermont town.