05764, Poultney, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05764, Poultney, Vermont is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.38 percent of residents in 05764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 33.37 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Poultney, VT (ZIP Code 05764)

Considering a move to the charming Vermont town of Poultney (ZIP Code 05764)? Perhaps you're already a resident, and the specter of breast cancer looms large. This assessment provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite evaluation of healthcare access, focusing specifically on transportation options for those needing screenings, diagnostics, and treatment. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a realistic picture of navigating healthcare in this rural landscape.

The score is not a clinical diagnosis or a substitute for professional medical advice. It serves as a tool to understand the logistical challenges and opportunities surrounding breast cancer care within the context of your commute to healthcare.

Poultney, nestled in the heart of Rutland County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relative remoteness, coupled with the inherent complexities of rural transportation, demands careful consideration.

**The Score:** (This section is a placeholder. A real score would be calculated based on the factors below.)

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Poultney is the automobile. The primary arteries connecting Poultney to healthcare facilities are US Route 7 and Vermont Route 30. US Route 7, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides the most direct route to Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC) in Rutland, the closest comprehensive medical facility.

The drive to RRMC, a crucial hub for breast cancer care, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by Vermont's unpredictable winters. Ice and snow can transform a routine commute into a treacherous journey, potentially delaying or even preventing access to vital appointments.

Vermont Route 30, running east-west, offers an alternative route, though it adds mileage and travel time. It is also a viable option for accessing smaller clinics and primary care physicians in surrounding towns. The condition of these roads, especially during the colder months, is a crucial factor.

For those seeking specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, a longer drive to larger hospitals in Burlington (University of Vermont Medical Center) or Albany, NY, might be necessary. These trips, potentially exceeding two hours, underscore the importance of reliable transportation and careful planning.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Poultney is limited. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus service, but the routes and schedules are not designed for frequent or direct access to healthcare facilities. The routes are primarily focused on serving the needs of students at Green Mountain College and local residents.

The availability of public transit for medical appointments is severely restricted. The buses do not operate on weekends or evenings, and the frequency of service during the weekdays is often insufficient for timely access to appointments. The lack of ADA-accessible features on some routes could also pose a significant barrier for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Poultney, but their availability is highly variable. The presence of drivers is contingent on demand and the time of day. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is risky, particularly for those needing to adhere to strict appointment schedules.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a more reliable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of NEMT services is also dependent on the specific insurance coverage and the provider's capacity.

**Specific Transportation Considerations:**

For those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the frequent appointments and potential side effects of treatment can significantly impact the ability to drive. The availability of reliable transportation becomes paramount.

The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those undergoing treatment.

**Moving to Poultney and Healthcare Access:**

Considering a move to Poultney? Healthcare access should be a primary consideration. Evaluate your current health needs, including the potential for future breast cancer screenings or treatment. Assess your ability to drive or rely on family members or friends for transportation.

If you are reliant on public transit, Poultney may not be the ideal location. If you are considering ride-sharing, verify availability and cost.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare access in Poultney, VT, requires a multifaceted approach. While the drive to RRMC is manageable, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential for weather-related disruptions highlight the challenges.

Careful planning, reliance on personal vehicles, and exploring medical transport options are essential for ensuring timely access to breast cancer care. The Breast Cancer Score, though a placeholder, underscores the importance of understanding these transportation realities when considering healthcare access in Poultney.