05744, Florence, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05744, Florence, Vermont is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.16 percent of residents in 05744 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rutland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.77 miles from the area.

Here's a draft of a "Breast Cancer Score" write-up, tailored for the specified ZIP code and requirements:

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Florence, VT (ZIP Code 05744)**

Relocating to a new community involves numerous considerations, and healthcare access is paramount. For individuals, particularly women, concerned about breast cancer screening and treatment, understanding the local transportation landscape is crucial. This report provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 05744 (Florence, Vermont), evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential breast cancer healthcare services. We will examine transportation options, including drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing, to assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the practical challenges and conveniences related to healthcare access. This analysis aims to inform potential residents about the realities of navigating the healthcare system in Florence, VT, particularly concerning breast cancer care. This information is crucial for making informed decisions, especially for those considering moving to the area and seeking the best possible healthcare.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

Florence, Vermont, is a rural community, and personal vehicles are often the primary mode of transportation. The closest major healthcare facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Rutland, approximately 15 miles away. This journey typically involves driving along US Route 7, a major north-south thoroughfare, and then navigating local roads to reach the Rutland Regional Medical Center.

During peak traffic hours, especially weekdays, the drive time can extend to 30-40 minutes. This is a crucial factor, particularly for patients undergoing treatment who may require frequent appointments. Road conditions, especially during winter months, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can make the journey treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical medical appointments.

Another option for accessing specialized care might involve traveling further afield, perhaps to Burlington or Lebanon, New Hampshire, for specialized treatments or consultations. These journeys, however, would require significantly longer drive times, potentially exceeding one to two hours, depending on traffic and weather. This underscores the importance of considering both the proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities when evaluating the suitability of Florence as a place to live.

**Public Transportation Challenges**

Public transportation options in Florence and the surrounding area are limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly for travel directly to Rutland. The GMT route 21 operates between Rutland and Middlebury, but it does not directly serve Florence. Residents would need to find alternative transportation to reach a GMT stop.

The lack of frequent and direct public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This limitation disproportionately affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The absence of a reliable public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access in this community.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance on GMT buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. All GMT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can still present difficulties for some passengers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rutland area, but their presence in Florence itself is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially expensive, especially given the distance to Rutland.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies, such as MedRide and FirstCall Medical Transportation, operate in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access Assessment and Recommendations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Florence, VT, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While Rutland Regional Medical Center offers comprehensive breast cancer services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges. The drive time to Rutland, while manageable, can be impacted by traffic and weather conditions.

For individuals considering moving to Florence, VT, and prioritizing healthcare access, several recommendations are essential. Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended. Investigating the availability and cost of medical transportation services is crucial. Exploring options for carpooling or shared rides with neighbors or community groups can also be beneficial.

It is also vital to proactively establish a relationship with a primary care physician in the area who can provide referrals and coordinate care. Understanding the specific breast cancer services offered at Rutland Regional Medical Center, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment options, is crucial. Planning ahead and considering the potential challenges associated with transportation will contribute to a smoother and less stressful healthcare experience.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Florence, VT, highlights the importance of careful consideration of transportation when assessing healthcare access. While the community offers access to essential breast cancer services, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate proactive planning and resourcefulness. For those contemplating moving to Florence, understanding these factors is vital for ensuring timely and convenient access to the healthcare they need.