05455, Fairfield, Vermont Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 05455, Fairfield, Vermont is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.45 percent of residents in 05455 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwestern Medical Center Inc with a distance of 5.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 05455

The quaint Vermont town of Fairfield, nestled within the 05455 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the complexities of healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, a condition often exacerbated by stress and limited access to care, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. This write-up offers a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical appointments in this specific geographical area. It considers various transportation options, providing a nuanced understanding for residents and those **moving to Fairfield**, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The cornerstone of our assessment is **healthcare access**, a multifaceted concept encompassing not only the availability of medical professionals but also the ease with which patients can reach them. This includes the physical journey, the financial burden of transportation, and the potential for delays that can disrupt treatment plans. For those with hypertension, timely access to medication, regular check-ups, and specialist consultations is crucial for managing their condition and preventing complications.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Fairfield is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The time it takes to reach healthcare facilities is heavily influenced by the local road network. The primary artery is Interstate 89, offering a relatively direct route to larger medical centers in Burlington and surrounding areas. However, the journey on I-89 can be subject to seasonal variations, particularly during the winter months, with potential delays due to snow and ice.

For shorter trips within the region, Route 7 and Route 104 are crucial. Route 7, a major north-south corridor, provides access to local pharmacies, primary care physicians, and some specialist offices. Route 104 connects Fairfield to neighboring towns, offering alternative routes and potentially shorter travel times depending on the destination.

A drive to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour via I-89. This time frame can fluctuate considerably depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Fairfield. Shorter trips to local clinics and pharmacies might be achievable within 15-30 minutes, depending on the location.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 05455 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those reliant on alternative modes of travel. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides bus service to the area, but the frequency and coverage are restricted. The primary route serving Fairfield is likely the Route 11, which may offer limited connections to larger towns and medical facilities.

The GMT website provides detailed route maps and schedules. However, the service is often infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. Individuals with hypertension need to carefully plan their trips, factoring in potential wait times and the possibility of missed appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. GMT buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the service can vary depending on the specific route and location.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Burlington area but may have limited presence in Fairfield itself. The availability and cost of these services can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. For individuals with hypertension, relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be financially burdensome and logistically challenging.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option for individuals needing assistance. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, these services typically come at a higher cost, and the availability of medical transport providers in the Fairfield area should be thoroughly investigated.

**Hypertension Score: A Personalized Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" is not a rigid numerical value but rather a framework for assessing healthcare access in 05455. It considers several factors: drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and the availability of medical transport.

For individuals with hypertension, the score will be lower if they:

* Rely on public transportation with limited frequency and coverage.
* Face long drive times to reach their healthcare providers.
* Have limited access to ride-sharing services or medical transport.
* Experience financial constraints that limit their transportation choices.

Conversely, the score will be higher if they:

* Have access to a personal vehicle and can navigate the road network efficiently.
* Live close to local healthcare providers.
* Have access to reliable and affordable ride-sharing or medical transport options.
* Have the financial resources to cover transportation costs.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals **moving to Fairfield** with hypertension, careful planning is essential. Before making a relocation decision, it's crucial to:

* Assess the proximity of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* Evaluate the availability and reliability of transportation options.
* Factor in potential transportation costs.
* Consider the impact of seasonal weather conditions on travel times.

Residents should also explore options for telehealth appointments, which can reduce the need for physical travel. Staying informed about local healthcare resources and transportation initiatives is also crucial.

The challenges of **transportation** in rural areas like Fairfield highlight the importance of community-based solutions. Local initiatives that promote carpooling, expand public transportation options, or provide financial assistance for transportation costs can significantly improve **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension. Understanding the nuances of **transportation** options and healthcare availability is paramount for managing hypertension and ensuring a high quality of life in the 05455 ZIP code.