05653, Eden Mills, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05653, Eden Mills, Vermont is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.07 percent of residents in 05653 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Copley Hospital with a distance of 11.36 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Eden Mills, Vermont (ZIP Code 05653)

The picturesque village of Eden Mills, Vermont, nestled within the rolling hills of the Green Mountains, offers a compelling allure for those seeking a tranquil life. But for individuals considering a move, especially those with potential healthcare needs like breast cancer screening and treatment, a crucial factor to assess is access to healthcare. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 05653, delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access, painting a vivid picture for prospective residents.

The cornerstone of this assessment is understanding the commute to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities equipped to handle breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The primary destinations for residents of Eden Mills are likely to be hospitals and clinics in nearby towns, requiring a careful evaluation of transportation options. This analysis will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in rural Vermont, and the primary arteries connecting Eden Mills to healthcare are the state highways. Route 100, the spine of the Green Mountains, winds its way through Eden Mills, offering a scenic but often slow journey. Route 12, another important road, provides a more direct route to the south. The drive to Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC) in Berlin, a key healthcare provider, is approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive, primarily on Route 100 and then onto Route 12, can be challenging during winter months, requiring all-wheel drive vehicles and careful navigation.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington is a likely destination. This journey, covering approximately 45 to 60 miles, takes about an hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and a half, primarily via Route 100 and Interstate 89. The drive time can significantly increase during peak commuting hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation for residents.

Public transportation options in Eden Mills are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service in the region, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns and cities. There are no direct bus routes from Eden Mills to CVMC or UVMMC. The closest bus stop might be in Johnson or Morrisville, requiring a drive to the stop and then a transfer, significantly extending the overall travel time. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

The GMT buses, while offering some level of accessibility, may not be fully ADA-compliant on all routes. Passengers with disabilities should verify the specific features of each route and bus before traveling. This limited accessibility further restricts healthcare access for a segment of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Burlington and Montpelier areas, but their presence in Eden Mills is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could prove unreliable and expensive. The cost of a ride to Burlington, for instance, could easily exceed $75, adding a significant financial burden to healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer an alternative for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. Companies like Bayada Home Health Care and FirstLight Home Care provide transportation to medical appointments, but these services often come with a cost. The availability of these services in Eden Mills and the surrounding area should be carefully investigated. Booking in advance is crucial, and the cost should be factored into the overall cost of healthcare.

The Breast Cancer Score for Eden Mills, therefore, reflects the challenges of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to healthcare access. While the drive times to CVMC and UVMMC are manageable, the weather, traffic, and lack of alternative transportation options can significantly impact accessibility.

For individuals considering a move to Eden Mills, especially those with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing the disease, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This includes owning a reliable vehicle, understanding the limitations of public transit, and investigating the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The overall score for Eden Mills is moderate. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are reasonable, the lack of reliable alternative transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a car, presents a significant challenge. The limited availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further compounds this issue. Prospective residents should carefully weigh these factors when making their decision, ensuring they have a robust plan for accessing healthcare.

Moving to Eden Mills offers the promise of a tranquil lifestyle, but the reality of healthcare access must be considered. The journey to healthcare, in this case, is not always a simple one, and the "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of planning and preparation.