05850, Lyndon Center, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05850, Lyndon Center, Vermont is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.27 percent of residents in 05850 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 Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 7.44 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Lyndon Center, ZIP Code 05850**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the accessibility of essential breast cancer services within and from Lyndon Center, Vermont (ZIP code 05850). We'll explore transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to determine the ease with which residents can access screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lyndon Center or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access.

Lyndon Center, nestled in the heart of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural landscape, while beautiful, often translates to longer travel times and limited transportation choices. This score aims to quantify those challenges and offer insights into navigating the system.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation in this area is the personal vehicle. Residents of 05850 will likely rely on their cars for most healthcare appointments. The major thoroughfare is Interstate 91 (I-91), which runs north-south, providing access to larger medical centers. However, travel times can vary significantly depending on weather conditions, especially during Vermont's harsh winters.

For breast cancer screening, the closest option is often the Northeast Vermont Regional Hospital in nearby St. Johnsbury. The drive to this facility, using US Route 5 and then Hospital Drive, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, assuming favorable road conditions. This is a relatively manageable commute, offering a reasonable standard of healthcare access.

For more specialized services, such as surgical oncology or radiation therapy, patients may need to travel further. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major regional center, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, via I-91 South. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The drive is also a factor in the overall Breast Cancer Score.

Other hospitals, such as the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, are even further afield, requiring a drive of over two hours. This significantly increases the time commitment for appointments and treatments, adding stress and potential logistical difficulties for patients.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Lyndon Center and the surrounding area is limited, which impacts healthcare access. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus services, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. The GMT route that services Lyndonville, a nearby town, might be useful, but the schedules and availability are a major consideration.

The buses are generally equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, making them accessible for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage mean that public transit is not a viable option for many residents, particularly those needing frequent appointments or facing mobility challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be unpredictable, especially in rural locations. The limited driver pool and potential surge pricing during peak hours or bad weather make ride-sharing a less reliable option for healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require advance booking and may involve additional costs, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

**Medical Transportation Services**

Several medical transportation companies operate in the area, including Northeast Kingdom Transportation and Senior Solutions. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. They offer a lifeline for those needing regular treatments or follow-up appointments.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The Breast Cancer Score for Lyndon Center, 05850, reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The relatively short drive to Northeast Vermont Regional Hospital for screening is a positive factor. However, the longer commutes to specialized treatment centers, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services, all negatively impact the score.

The availability of medical transportation services helps mitigate some of the challenges, but the cost and the need for advance booking remain considerations. Overall, the Breast Cancer Score for this area indicates a moderate level of healthcare access. Residents have access to essential services, but the transportation limitations pose potential barriers to timely and convenient care.

**Moving to Lyndon Center**

For individuals considering moving to Lyndon Center, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the distance to comprehensive medical facilities must be weighed. If you are a patient with a history of breast cancer or are at high risk, carefully assess the transportation options and plan for potential travel challenges.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Lyndon Center highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers some advantages, the rural location and limited public transit present challenges. Residents must rely on personal vehicles, carefully consider the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and plan for potential travel delays. This information is essential for anyone seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access in this beautiful but geographically isolated part of Vermont.