05774, Wells, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05774, Wells, Vermont is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.97 percent of residents in 05774 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Porter Hospital, Inc with a distance of 39.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05774

Imagine the crisp Vermont air, the rolling hills, and the close-knit community of Wells, Vermont, nestled in the heart of the Green Mountain State. You're considering a move, drawn to the tranquility and charm. But before you unpack your bags, let's consider a critical factor: your access to healthcare, specifically for breast cancer screening and treatment. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," will examine the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 05774, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to assess your potential access to vital healthcare resources.

This score aims to provide a realistic picture of your journey to care, acknowledging that timely access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment is paramount in the fight against breast cancer. We'll delve into the practicalities of getting to appointments, considering the realities of Vermont's terrain and the limitations of its transportation infrastructure.

The cornerstone of this assessment is drive time. In Wells, the closest major healthcare facilities are in Rutland, approximately 30 miles away. The primary route is via **Vermont Route 30**, a scenic but often winding road that can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during Vermont's long winters. Under ideal conditions, the drive to Rutland Regional Medical Center, a key provider of breast cancer services, takes approximately 45 minutes.

However, this estimate needs refinement. Traffic, road conditions, and the time of day can significantly impact travel time. During peak hours, particularly weekdays, the commute can extend beyond an hour. Snow and ice, common during the winter months, can dramatically increase travel times and pose safety risks. Therefore, the Breast Cancer Score must account for these variables, assigning a higher "time penalty" for potential delays.

Another crucial route is **US Route 4**, which intersects with Route 30 near the town of Castleton. This highway offers a slightly faster route to Rutland, but it too is subject to weather-related delays and traffic congestion, especially near the Rutland city limits. The condition of these roads, and the availability of real-time traffic information, will influence the overall score.

Beyond Rutland, the next closest facilities are in Lebanon, New Hampshire, approximately 70 miles away, a journey that requires navigating both Vermont and New Hampshire roads, including **Interstate 91**. This significantly increases travel time, potentially exceeding two hours under certain circumstances. This distance necessitates careful consideration, especially for regular appointments or emergency situations.

Public transportation options in and around Wells are limited. The **Marble Valley Regional TransitMarble Valley Regional Transit District (MVRTD)**, also known as "The Bus," provides some service within Rutland County. However, its routes and schedules are not designed to facilitate frequent or timely access to medical appointments from Wells. The MVRTD operates primarily along major routes, and service to Wells itself is infrequent, often requiring transfers and significantly extending travel times.

The MVRTD does strive to provide ADA-accessible buses, offering ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage remain significant barriers. For someone needing regular treatment, relying solely on public transportation would be challenging, if not impossible.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rutland area, but their presence in Wells is less consistent. Availability depends on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing options.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another potential option. Several companies operate in Vermont, offering door-to-door service. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive. Their availability in the Wells area, and the associated costs, will impact the final score.

The Breast Cancer Score will also incorporate the availability of local resources, such as support groups and patient navigation services. These resources can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the healthcare system, but their accessibility depends on the availability of transportation.

The score will consider the potential for delays, factoring in seasonal weather patterns and the impact of road closures. It will also assess the availability of emergency medical services, including ambulance response times.

The score is not simply about distance; it's about the practicalities of getting to care. The score will reflect the challenges faced by residents of Wells in accessing timely and reliable healthcare, especially for those dealing with the complexities of breast cancer.

For someone moving to Wells, this score is a crucial piece of the puzzle. It highlights the potential challenges in accessing healthcare and underscores the importance of planning and preparation. It is a reminder that moving to a rural area comes with trade-offs, and healthcare access is a critical factor to consider.

The Breast Cancer Score is a tool, not a judgment. It's designed to empower individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available transportation options, and understanding the potential challenges of accessing care in a rural environment.

The final score will be a comprehensive assessment, reflecting the realities of transportation and healthcare access in ZIP code 05774. It will be a valuable resource for anyone considering a move to Wells, Vermont, and a reminder of the importance of prioritizing healthcare in all aspects of life. It is a call to action, advocating for improved transportation infrastructure and expanded healthcare access in rural communities.