05065, Sharon, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05065, Sharon, Vermont is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.38 percent of residents in 05065 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is White River Jct Va Medical Center with a distance of 10.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Sharon, Vermont (ZIP Code 05065)

Considering a move to Sharon, Vermont (ZIP Code 05065)? This assessment provides a "Hypertension Score," a subjective metric reflecting the ease of accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. It considers transportation options, drive times, and accessibility features, offering a nuanced perspective on healthcare access within the region. The score aims to inform your decision, acknowledging that proximity to care is crucial for managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure.

The score is not a scientific medical evaluation. It is a qualitative assessment based on available data, local knowledge, and assumptions about individual needs. The score ranges from 1 (least accessible) to 5 (most accessible).

**Understanding the Landscape:**

Sharon, Vermont, is a quintessential New England town, characterized by rolling hills, scenic beauty, and a close-knit community. Its rural nature, however, significantly impacts transportation and healthcare access. Residents often rely on personal vehicles, and public transportation options are limited. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel.

**The Hypertension Score Components:**

The score considers several key factors: drive times to healthcare providers, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. Each factor influences the ease and efficiency of accessing medical care, directly impacting the ability to manage hypertension effectively.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Sharon is Interstate 89 (I-89). Driving south on I-89, the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is approximately a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic. This is a significant advantage, providing access to a comprehensive medical facility.

Alternatively, heading north on I-89, the Gifford Medical Center in Randolph, Vermont, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive. This is a smaller community hospital but offers essential services, including primary care and cardiology.

Local roads, such as Route 14 and Route 132, provide alternative routes, though they are often slower and more winding. These routes can be useful for avoiding traffic on I-89, but may not be ideal for emergency situations.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Sharon are limited. The Advance Transit bus service provides some service to the area, but routes and schedules may not be ideal for medical appointments. Service is primarily focused on connecting the Upper Valley region, and frequency can be limited, especially on weekends and evenings.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on Advance Transit buses are available, including ramps and wheelchair accommodations. However, the limited route network and schedule constraints can still pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Upper Valley region, including Sharon. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments might be unreliable.

Medical transport services are available, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are specifically designed to transport patients to medical appointments. However, they often require advance booking and can be costly, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with limited financial resources.

**Scoring the Components:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. Access to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Gifford Medical Center is within a reasonable driving distance.
* **Public Transportation:** Limited. The Advance Transit bus service offers some connectivity, but frequency and route coverage are a concern.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate. Uber and Lyft are available, but reliability can be an issue.
* **Medical Transport:** Available. Private ambulance and NEMT services provide specialized transport options.

**Overall Hypertension Score:**

Considering all factors, the Hypertension Score for Sharon, Vermont (ZIP Code 05065) is a **3 out of 5**. This score reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While the proximity to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Gifford Medical Center is a significant advantage, the limitations of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Individuals with hypertension should carefully consider these factors when evaluating the suitability of Sharon as a place to live.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Individuals with hypertension considering a move to Sharon should prioritize the following:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate the frequency of medical appointments and the need for specialized transportation.
* **Explore Transportation Alternatives:** Investigate the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options.
* **Build a Support Network:** Establish a network of friends, family, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the distance to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Factor in Weather Conditions:** Consider the impact of winter weather on driving conditions and transportation availability.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Sharon, Vermont, offers the allure of a peaceful, rural lifestyle. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. While the Hypertension Score of 3 suggests moderate accessibility, proactive planning and a clear understanding of the available resources are essential for successful healthcare management. This assessment emphasizes the importance of carefully weighing the benefits and drawbacks of moving to a rural area, particularly when healthcare access is a primary concern. The decision to move should be made with a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and a commitment to ensuring consistent access to necessary medical care.