05062, Reading, Vermont COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 05062, Reading, Vermont is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.40 percent of residents in 05062 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mt Ascutney Hospital with a distance of 7.81 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05062**

The air, crisp and clean, is a siren song for those contemplating a move to Reading, Vermont (ZIP Code 05062). Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, this rural haven offers a slower pace of life, a respite from the urban clamor. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the allure of tranquility must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This report, a "COPD Score" assessment, examines the transportation landscape in and around 05062, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities for residents with COPD. This is critical information for anyone considering relocating, particularly those with breathing difficulties.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the drive time analysis. The primary healthcare provider for Reading residents is Dartmouth Health, with its closest facilities in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and White River Junction, Vermont. Traveling from the center of Reading to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, the primary hospital, involves a drive of approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Reading. The journey primarily utilizes Interstate 89 North.

The initial stretch typically involves navigating local roads, such as Route 106, before merging onto I-89. Traffic is generally light, but during peak commuting hours or inclement weather, delays are possible. The route is well-maintained, and the interstate provides a relatively smooth ride. For those needing specialized care, the drive to Dartmouth-Hitchcock is a manageable, albeit potentially stressful, undertaking.

Alternatively, residents can seek care at the Dartmouth Health clinic in White River Junction. This drive is shorter, usually taking 20-30 minutes, and primarily involves Route 106 South and then Route 4 West. This route is less reliant on interstate travel, which can be beneficial during winter storms or periods of heavy traffic. Route 4, while a well-traveled road, can experience congestion, particularly near the intersections with US Route 5.

Public transportation options in 05062 are limited. The Advance Transit (AT) provides bus services in the Upper Valley region, but service to Reading itself is infrequent. AT Route 9, which runs between White River Junction and Woodstock, offers the most viable option. However, the bus route does not directly serve Reading; residents would need to arrange for a ride to a bus stop on Route 106 or Route 4. This adds significant travel time and complicates healthcare access.

The AT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and the need for additional transportation to reach a bus stop make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many COPD patients. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the COPD Score, highlighting the challenges of healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Upper Valley region. However, their presence in Reading is less consistent than in more urban areas. Ride availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare visits is not a sustainable solution for most COPD patients.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Brands such as FirstLight Home Care and Comfort Keepers operate in the region, offering transportation services. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or personal transportation. However, they provide a crucial service for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation options.

The availability of medical transportation services is a positive factor in the COPD Score, but the reliance on these services can also introduce challenges. The need for advance booking can limit spontaneity, and the cost can be a burden. For individuals with frequent appointments or unpredictable health needs, the reliance on medical transportation can add stress and complexity to their lives.

The overall COPD Score for 05062 is moderate. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are reasonable, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The availability of medical transportation services mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost and the need for advance booking remain concerns.

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Reading, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and access to support networks is crucial. The ability to drive or the availability of reliable assistance from family or friends is essential. The COPD Score highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need to consider the practical realities of healthcare access when making relocation decisions. The beauty of Reading is undeniable, but for those with COPD, a clear understanding of the transportation landscape is vital for ensuring a good quality of life.