05904, Gilman, Vermont COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 05904, Gilman, Vermont is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.86 percent of residents in 05904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital with a distance of 15.42 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 05904

The crisp Vermont air, the rolling hills, and the quiet charm of Gilman, ZIP Code 05904, beckon. But for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity must be balanced with the practicalities of healthcare access. This analysis, a "COPD Score" if you will, examines the transportation landscape, crucial for those with breathing difficulties, to determine the ease of reaching medical appointments and necessary treatments. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals considering moving to Gilman or currently residing there.

The primary concern for anyone with COPD is the ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly and reliably. This necessitates a thorough understanding of available transportation options. In Gilman, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making drive times a critical factor. The nearest major hospital, **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center** in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is approximately a two-hour drive, primarily via **Interstate 91 South**. This journey, while scenic, can be arduous for someone experiencing shortness of breath or fatigue, common symptoms of COPD.

Alternatively, the drive to **Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital** in St. Johnsbury, a closer option, averages around 30 to 45 minutes, mainly via **US Route 2 East** and **Vermont Route 102 North**. This shorter commute is a significant advantage, allowing for quicker access to emergency care and routine appointments. The condition of these roads, especially during harsh Vermont winters, presents another consideration. Snow and ice can significantly extend travel times and increase the risk of accidents, potentially exacerbating existing health concerns.

Public transportation options in Gilman are limited, a reality that significantly impacts the COPD Score. The **Green Mountain Transit (GMT)** provides some service in the region, but routes are infrequent and often require transfers. There are no direct public transit routes to either Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center or Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. The closest GMT route, the **Route 89** (St. Johnsbury-Lyndonville), offers limited service along **US Route 5**, but its schedule may not align with medical appointments, and it doesn't directly serve Gilman.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities, including those with COPD, is crucial. While GMT strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the limited service area and potential for long wait times can still present challenges. ADA-compliant buses typically have ramps or lifts, and operators are trained to assist passengers with disabilities. However, the lack of comprehensive routes and the need for transfers can diminish the practicality of public transit for many COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the region, but their availability and reliability in rural Vermont are variable. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. For those without access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing might be the only alternative to public transit.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Care Ride** and **LogistiCare** are active in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, these services often require advance booking, and their availability might be limited, particularly for urgent appointments.

The COPD Score for Gilman, therefore, is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable for some, can pose challenges for individuals with COPD. The lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Gilman, the availability of healthcare access must be a primary concern. The proximity to Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital is a definite advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services warrants careful consideration.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of home healthcare services in Gilman. Home healthcare can provide valuable support for individuals with COPD, reducing the need for frequent trips to healthcare facilities. Services like **Visiting Nurse Association (VNA)** and **Gifford Health Care** offer in-home care, including respiratory therapy and medication management. Access to these services can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients and reduce the burden of transportation.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can also mitigate transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person appointments. Many healthcare providers offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring of vital signs. This technology can be particularly beneficial for individuals with COPD, allowing them to receive care from the comfort of their homes.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Gilman, ZIP Code 05904, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital offers a significant advantage, the limited transportation options and reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges. Individuals with COPD considering moving to Gilman should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. The availability of home healthcare, telehealth services, and the potential for ride-sharing are crucial factors to consider when assessing the overall accessibility of healthcare in Gilman. The ability to secure reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, medical transport, or readily available ride-sharing, is essential for managing COPD effectively and maintaining a good quality of life in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, Vermont community.