05445, Charlotte, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05445, Charlotte, Vermont is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.07 percent of residents in 05445 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Univ. Of Vermont - Fletcher Allen Health Care with a distance of 10.65 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 05445

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is crucial when evaluating a new living environment. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP Code 05445, focusing on how easily residents can reach medical facilities and the potential impact on their health. The goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times, transportation options, and the overall ease of healthcare access, all vital considerations for anyone moving to Charlotte or surrounding areas.

ZIP Code 05445, encompassing the town of Essex Junction, Vermont, presents a unique transportation environment. Unlike sprawling urban centers, this area offers a blend of personal vehicle reliance and limited public transit options. The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is the timely access to medication refills, routine check-ups, and emergency care. This requires a detailed examination of the available transportation infrastructure.

The cornerstone of transportation in 05445 is the personal vehicle. The primary roadways, including Interstate 89 (I-89) and US Route 2, dictate much of the daily commute. I-89 provides a direct route to Burlington, the primary hub for specialized medical care in the region. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

The drive to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, a major healthcare provider, can vary considerably. During off-peak hours, the journey via I-89 South typically takes around 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, this can easily extend to 30-45 minutes, or even longer if there is an accident. US Route 2 offers an alternative, albeit slower, route. This road, running parallel to I-89, provides a more scenic drive, but it is also prone to traffic lights and slower speeds, potentially adding 10-15 minutes to the commute.

Beyond Burlington, other medical facilities are accessible. The Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans, approximately 30 miles north, is another option. The drive to St. Albans via I-89 North is generally longer, taking around 40-50 minutes in normal traffic. These varying drive times highlight the importance of considering traffic patterns when assessing healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 05445 are limited, which can pose a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or prefer not to drive. Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus services throughout Chittenden County, including routes serving Essex Junction. Route 111 is a key route, connecting Essex Junction to Burlington. However, the frequency of buses is limited, and the travel time to Burlington via public transit can be significantly longer than driving, often taking 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day and transfer points.

ADA accessibility on GMT buses is a crucial factor. All GMT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This ensures that individuals with mobility limitations can access healthcare appointments. However, the limited service frequency and longer travel times can still present challenges for those with hypertension, especially during emergencies.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. These services offer an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing can add an additional layer of uncertainty to healthcare access, potentially impacting medication adherence and appointment attendance.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to patients with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair assistance or stretcher transport. While these services provide a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs. The availability and cost of medical transport services should be considered when evaluating healthcare access.

When evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for 05445, several factors must be considered. The primary reliance on personal vehicles presents both advantages and disadvantages. The relatively short drive times to Burlington during off-peak hours offer convenient access to specialized medical care. However, the potential for traffic delays during peak hours can create stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact blood pressure management.

The limited public transit options pose a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive. The longer travel times and limited service frequency can make it difficult to attend appointments, particularly for those with multiple medical needs. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive factor, but it does not fully mitigate the challenges associated with limited public transit.

Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but the cost and availability of drivers can be unpredictable. Medical transport services provide a valuable resource for individuals with specific needs, but they often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 05445 would likely be moderate. The area offers reasonable healthcare access via personal vehicles, but the limited public transit options and potential for traffic delays create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but these services may not be accessible or affordable for all residents.

For individuals considering moving to Charlotte or any area, a thorough evaluation of transportation infrastructure and healthcare access is crucial. This includes assessing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transport services. Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed decisions about their living environment and ensure they have convenient access to the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension effectively.